Dex (2015) is a cyberpunk-themed, side-scrolling RPG developed by Dreadlocked Games and Badland Games. While it features a vibrant, pixel art aesthetic reminiscent of classic 16-bit titles, Dex offers a refreshingly mature storyline and intricate gameplay mechanics that set it apart from the typical retro-inspired platformer. The game is set in the dystopian, neon-drenched metropolis of Harbor Prime, a corporate-controlled city where augmented reality has become the norm. You play as Dex, a skilled hacker who finds herself embroiled in a conspiracy that threatens to unravel the fabric of this cyberpunk society. The narrative is non-linear, with multiple branching paths and endings that are influenced by your choices and actions throughout the game. Dex's combat system is a unique blend of real-time action and turn-based strategy. While traversing the environments, you'll engage in fast-paced platforming sequences, but once combat initiates, the action shifts to a turn-based format where you must strategically deploy your character's abilities and resources. This hybrid system keeps the gameplay fresh and engaging, requiring you to master both agility and tactical decision-making. One of Dex's standout features is its impressive depth of character customization and progression. As you level up, you can allocate skill points across a vast array of abilities, ranging from hacking and stealth to combat and social skills. This flexibility allows you to tailor Dex's capabilities to your preferred playstyle, whether you favor a stealthy approach, brute force, or a balanced blend of both. The game's world is densely populated with NPCs, each with their own backstories and agendas. Engaging in dialogue and side quests can reveal valuable information, unlock new paths, or even grant unique abilities, encouraging players to explore every nook and cranny of Harbor Prime. Overall, Dex offers a captivating cyberpunk adventure that successfully blends retro aesthetics with modern gameplay mechanics and storytelling. Its intricate world-building, branching narrative, and deep customization systems make it a standout title within the indie RPG genre.