In a crowded landscape of superhero media, AdHoc Studio’s latest venture, Dispatch, distinguishes itself with a fresh narrative approach. Instead of centering on the superheroes themselves, this choice-driven adventure focuses on Robert Robertson III, an unpowered dispatcher for the Superhero Dispatch Network (SDN), brilliantly voiced by Aaron Paul. Beginning with an hour-long introduction, Dispatch sets up an engaging story revolving around the trials of managing a team of reformed supervillains who assist clients with problems ranging from mundane issues like cats stuck in trees to urgent emergencies like jewelry heists.
The episodic game, reminiscent of Telltale Games’ style, has released its first two of eight episodes, with new content rolling out weekly until November 12th. Players quickly find themselves making choices that impact the outcomes of emergencies. Users can select which of Robert’s unique team members to send for particular tasks, weighing their abilities and past experiences. This adds an intriguing strategic element, as the chosen character’s success hinges on their specific skills. For instance, sending a charismatic popstar with magical powers to handle a high-profile escort mission could prove advantageous over a less suited candidate.
Robert’s journey in the game, while largely dialogue-driven with minimal interactive elements, excels in character development and storytelling. The animation quality is comparable to high-end adult animated series like Invincible and Arcane, and the stellar voice cast, which includes Laura Bailey and Jeffrey Wright, enhances the game’s immersive experience. However, the gameplay can feel limited; players do not control Robert’s movement, making choices primarily based on dialogue and quick-time events that don’t significantly affect the story’s progression.
The limitations extend to the game’s consequence mechanics. Early feedback indicates that while choices may influence minor details, the overall narrative does not shift dramatically across multiple playthroughs of the initial episodes. This reiterates the need for more impactful decision-making as the series progresses.
Despite these concerns, the storytelling shines, especially in the interactions between Robert and his unusual crew of heroes. His character stands out as a determined and thoughtful individual, navigating the absurdities of his position without succumbing to typical hero tropes. The depth of the writing and unique character dynamics suggest that as the series unfolds, players may find rewarding experiences beyond what is currently available in the initial episodes.
Overall, Dispatch, which is currently available on PS5 and Steam, has the potential to evolve into a compelling experience worthy of exploration. While there are aspects requiring refinement, the animation quality, character depth, and innovative premise hold promise for a bright future in this narrative-driven superhero tale. As new episodes release, fans can remain optimistic about the growth of this creatively charged adventure.