Deus Ex: Greasel of the Year Edition, released in 2021, is an action RPG set in a familiar universe where you control a "greasel." The core gameplay loop merges shooter mechanics with RPG progression, heavily emphasizing stealth and resourceful problem-solving using limited means. This edition offers a unique, grounded perspective within the established setting, focusing on creative navigation and survival.
The primary gameplay loop revolves around exploration, character development, and mission completion. Unlike games focused on overwhelming force, this title emphasizes stealth, tactical positioning, and resourceful management of limited supplies and augmentations. Players must frequently choose between direct confrontation and non-lethal or stealth approaches to navigate environments and interact with Non-Player Characters (NPCs).
As an RPG, character growth is central. Players invest experience points (XP) into various skill trees that govern abilities related to hacking, social engineering, combat proficiency, and stealth movement. The game features a system where augmentations—cybernetic or biological enhancements—can be installed, each offering unique active and passive benefits, though often accompanied by trade-offs affecting overall character balance.
The narrative places the player within a world already established by previous entries, but from a grounded, street-level viewpoint. The story explores themes of corporate control, societal division, and the ethical implications of technological advancement. Players will navigate complex moral choices that directly influence mission outcomes and the relationships developed with various factions throughout the campaign.
The game distinguishes itself by focusing on creative problem-solving under duress. With fewer inherent advantages than heavily augmented agents, success often hinges on utilizing environmental interactions, dialogue options, and specialized gear rather than relying solely on superior combat statistics. This focus on resourcefulness defines the moment-to-moment gameplay experience.
Since its initial launch, the game has received several updates addressing stability and balancing the effectiveness of various augmentation combinations. Community feedback often highlights the depth of the narrative choices and the successful integration of stealth mechanics within the action framework. The current iteration of the game is stable, allowing players to fully engage with the established systems.