Info about Digimon Story Cyber Sleuth: Complete Edition:

Official game description:
With engaging storylines, classic turn-based battles, and tons of Digimon to collect, Digimon Story Cyber Sleuth: Complete Edition delivers everything fans loved about Digimon Story: Cyber Sleuth and Digimon Story: Cyber Sleuth – Hacker’s Memory.  
Get the full experience with the Complete Edition which includes both titles in one!  
MYSTERIOUS EVENTS  
• Become a cyber detective or powerful hacker to solve diabolical digi-mysteries.  
VIVID & IMMERSIVE WORLDS  
• Embark on a thrilling adventure where the line between the real and digital worlds is blurred.  
ENDLESSLY ADDICTING  
• Featuring more than 300 Digimon to collect, raise, and Digivolve!  
SOLID GAMEPLAY  
• Build an all-star Digimon team to take on opponents in classic turn-based battles.

Release date: Oct 17, 2019

Categories: Turn-based Combat, Monster Collecting, Character Progression, Single-player Story, RPG, Investigative Gameplay


- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price: No data
- Playtime Metrics: No data
- Time-to-fun: No data
- Player Archetypes: No data


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- Deep Digimon Collection & Evolution (weight 1): Players highly praise the extensive and addictive system for collecting, raising, evolving, and de-evolving Digimon. The vast variety of Digimon, unique designs, and flexible evolution paths, including skill inheritance, are core strengths, making the process highly rewarding and a major draw for fans and newcomers alike. Many consider this the best 'monster collecting' aspect in the genre.
- Overall Highly Enjoyable JRPG Experience (weight 0.56): Beyond specific mechanics, the game is consistently hailed as an outstanding, addictive, and deeply satisfying JRPG. It is considered one of the best Digimon games to date, praised for its engaging core loop, immersive digital world, and overall fun, often evoking nostalgia for older fans and successfully introducing newcomers to the franchise.
- Engaging Turn-Based Combat (weight 0.31): The battle mechanics are consistently lauded for being smooth, intuitive, and strategically deep, yet accessible. The turn-based combat system, often compared favorably to other JRPGs, balances type advantages, team synergy, and status effects. Features like auto-battle and fluid progression contribute to an enjoyable and dynamic fighting experience.
- Compelling & Mature Storyline (weight 0.27): The narrative is widely appreciated for its depth, engaging twists, and mature themes, distinguishing it from other monster-taming games. While some note a slow start, the story quickly builds momentum, weaving intricate cyber mysteries with emotional character arcs that keep players hooked and satisfied through both main and side quests.
- Enhanced Hacker's Memory Experience (weight 0.22): Many players specifically highlight 'Hacker's Memory' as an improved experience over the original 'Cyber Sleuth'. It offers a compelling parallel story with more developed characters, improved quality-of-life features (like faster movement), and a generally more polished narrative and gameplay, often leading to a deeply emotional conclusion.
- Excellent Value in Complete Edition (weight 0.19): The Complete Edition is widely praised for its exceptional value, bundling two full-length games ('Cyber Sleuth' and 'Hacker's Memory') with all DLC for a single price. This package provides over 100 hours of content, making it a highly recommended purchase, especially when on sale, and a 'must-buy' for fans.
- Memorable & Charismatic Characters (weight 0.1): The game's cast is frequently commended for being likable, well-developed, and memorable. Characters, even background ones, are described as charismatic and emotionally engaging, with distinct personalities and growth throughout the story, fostering player attachment and adding depth to the narrative.
- Appealing Anime Art Style & World (weight 0.08): Reviewers appreciate the game's vibrant anime art style, character designs, and overall aesthetic. This visual presentation, combined with a stylish cyberpunk world, effectively evokes nostalgia for the Digimon anime series and enhances the immersive experience, making battles and exploration visually engaging.
- Solid Soundtrack & Audio (weight 0.05): The game's soundtrack receives positive feedback, with many tracks described as excellent, enjoyable, and memorable. The music is noted for fitting the mood well, enhancing the overall atmosphere, and sometimes being worth listening to independently, adding to the game's appeal.

Common complaints:
- Excessive & Unskippable Dialogue (weight 0.61): The game features an overwhelming amount of dialogue and cutscenes, which are often described as boring, generic, and unnecessary filler. A major complaint is the complete lack of options to skip or fast-forward these sequences, severely impacting pacing, making replays frustrating, and causing the game to feel more like a visual novel than an RPG.
- Tedious Digimon Grinding (weight 0.37): Players extensively criticize the repetitive grinding required for Digimon evolution, stat growth (ABI, Talent), and acquisition, often involving cumbersome evolution/de-evolution mechanics and opaque systems. This process is frequently deemed tedious and a significant barrier, especially for non-Digimon fans, diminishing the enjoyment of raising Digimon.
- Poor & Missing Localizations (weight 0.32): The English translation is frequently described as shoddy, inconsistent, and prone to typos and awkward phrasing, hindering narrative understanding. Additionally, a significant complaint is the absence of official localizations in several major languages, including Spanish, Portuguese, and Simplified Chinese, limiting accessibility for a large audience.
- Outdated Graphics & Aesthetics (weight 0.21): The game's visual presentation is widely considered dated, stemming from its PlayStation Vita origins, with bland and repetitive environments, low-resolution textures, and poor animations. Limited graphical options and a general lack of polish detract from the overall aesthetic experience and fail to meet modern expectations.
- Repetitive Missions & Backtracking (weight 0.21): Mission design is criticized for its repetitiveness, featuring many mandatory side quests that feel like filler and artificially lengthen playtime. Players are often forced to revisit the same bland areas and dungeons repeatedly, leading to tedious backtracking and a lack of clear, engaging objectives.
- Basic & Unbalanced Combat (weight 0.21): Combat is criticized for being basic, repetitive, and lacking strategic depth, often described as either too easy on normal difficulty or tediously unbalanced on hard mode without specific 'penetrating' attacks. Slow animations and a lack of mechanical evolution further contribute to a monotonous battle experience.
- Poor Map Design & Fixed Camera (weight 0.2): The game's map and dungeon designs are criticized for being uninspired, linear, and visually repetitive, often reusing assets. Navigation is further hampered by small, confusing maps, a lack of minimap or clear objectives, and archaic fixed camera angles that restrict player view and cannot be rotated.
- Cyber Sleuth vs. Hacker's Memory (weight 0.2): Players frequently compare the two games, noting Hacker's Memory often has a weaker, more fragmented main plot and a sad ending compared to Cyber Sleuth. Both titles share similar systems and recycled assets, leading to a feeling of 'more of the same,' though Hacker's Memory sometimes introduces minor quality-of-life improvements.
- Game-Breaking Crashes (weight 0.14): Numerous reports indicate persistent, game-breaking crashes at critical story junctures, particularly in subway areas (e.g., Chapters 4, 5, 14, 15). The absence of an auto-save feature exacerbates lost progress, often making the game unplayable and highly frustrating for many users.

Gameplay feedback:
- Dual Parallel Story Campaigns (weight 0.18): The game package includes two distinct, full-length campaigns: Cyber Sleuth and Hacker's Memory. These stories unfold concurrently in the same setting but from different protagonists' perspectives, offering complementary narratives. It is generally recommended to play Cyber Sleuth first to fully understand story references and character backgrounds in Hacker's Memory.
- Narrative-Heavy, Long JRPG (weight 0.11): Players will experience a significant amount of dialogue and story progression, often feeling like a visual novel with JRPG elements. This narrative focus, combined with the need for optional grinding for full completion or optimal Digimon, results in a substantial playtime, often exceeding 100 hours for both games.
- Adjustable Difficulty & New Game+ (weight 0.1): The game generally starts with low difficulty on Normal mode, with mechanics introduced gradually, making it accessible for new players. A Hard mode is available from the start and can be adjusted mid-game, offering increased challenge primarily through enemies having more HP. Both campaigns feature a New Game+ option.
- Monster-Collecting JRPG Blend (weight 0.05): The game is fundamentally a monster-collecting JRPG, featuring deep creature evolution and combat systems. It incorporates significant visual novel elements and is often compared to titles like Persona or Shin Megami Tensei for its thematic depth and JRPG structure, while also being likened to Pokémon for its collection aspect.
- Key EXP Grinding Tools (weight 0.05): Players widely utilize specific Digimon like PlatinumNumemon or PlatinumSukamon, combined with Tactician USB items, to significantly accelerate experience point accumulation. This strategy is crucial for efficiently leveling up Digimon, especially given the extensive evolution and de-evolution requirements.
- Player Tips & Story Preference (weight 0.04): Reviewers often share preferences for either the Cyber Sleuth or Hacker's Memory storyline, and frequently plan subsequent playthroughs. Practical advice for new players includes consulting walkthroughs for complete item/medal collection and preparing Digimon with piercing attacks for challenging bosses.

Performance notes:
- Steam Deck/Linux Compatibility Issues (weight 0.07): Many players report initial difficulties running the game on Steam Deck and Linux, including black screens and launch failures. While specific workarounds like using desktop mode, setting fullscreen, and particular Proton versions (e.g., Proton 9.0-4, Proton GE) generally enable good performance, the out-of-the-box experience is often problematic. There's also a specific issue with games on NTFS partitions on Linux.
- Low System Requirements, Stable FPS (weight 0.06): The game generally runs smoothly and maintains a constant 60 FPS on a wide range of hardware, from low to mid-tier PCs. It supports 4K resolution but is capped at 60 frames per second. Despite overall good performance, some users noted inconsistent graphics quality, occasionally appearing dated.
- Limited Ported Graphics Options (weight 0.01): As a direct 1:1 port from its console (PS4) version, the game offers limited graphical settings. Resolution options are restricted to 16:9 aspect ratio (720p, 1080p, 4K), reflecting its console origins.
- Excessively Loud Menu Audio (weight 0.01): Users frequently report that the game launches with an extremely high volume for menu music. This issue is compounded by settings not always applying to the main menu, making it difficult to immediately adjust the initial loud audio.
- Minor Controller Detection Issues (weight 0.01): Some players experienced brief issues with the game not recognizing their controller upon launch. This problem was typically resolved by simply restarting the game or ensuring the controller was connected before the game was launched.

Recommendations:
- Ideal for Digimon/JRPG Fans (weight 0.42): This game is highly recommended for fans of the Digimon franchise, monster-catching mechanics, and traditional turn-based JRPGs. Many reviewers found it particularly satisfying for its narrative and deep creature collection, often comparing it favorably to titles like Persona or Shin Megami Tensei.
- Endures Grinding and Dialogue (weight 0.19): The game demands patience from players, featuring extensive grinding, lengthy dialogues, and unskippable cutscenes. Those who prefer a fast-paced experience or dislike these common JRPG elements may find the game tedious or not enjoyable.
- Overall Positive Reception (weight 0.16): Despite some criticisms, the game generally garners positive feedback and high ratings, with many players describing it as a great, enjoyable, and solid RPG. Reviewers appreciate the substantial content, satisfying progression, and immersive journey it offers.
- Play Cyber Sleuth First (weight 0.07): When playing the Complete Edition, it is strongly advised to start with the original "Cyber Sleuth" story before proceeding to "Hacker's Memory." This sequence is crucial for understanding the overarching narrative and appreciating the plot connections without spoilers.
- PC Technical Issues and Controls (weight 0.05): The PC version of the game suffers from reports of crashes and stuttering, leading some players to request refunds. It is frequently recommended to use a controller for a better experience, with some even suggesting playing on consoles due to these PC-specific issues.
- Hope for Future Titles (weight 0.04): Players express enthusiasm and anticipation for upcoming Digimon titles, such as "Time Stranger," hoping for further innovation and quality-of-life improvements. This game is often seen as a solid foundation or a benchmark for future installments in the franchise.

Other player notes:
- High anticipation for next game (weight 0.2): Players express significant excitement for the upcoming 'Digimon Story: Time Stranger,' hoping it will address current game shortcomings, improve mechanics, and expand the narrative. This game is often seen as a valuable experience while waiting for the next installment.
- Frequently on sale across platforms (weight 0.14): The game is often available at substantial discounts, sometimes up to 90% off, making it an attractive purchase for many. Numerous players have bought and played the game across multiple platforms, including PS Vita, PS4, Switch, and PC.
- Bundles two full stories (weight 0.1): The 'Complete Edition' offers both 'Cyber Sleuth' and 'Hacker's Memory,' providing players with two distinct, lengthy story campaigns. Many reviewers appreciate having both narratives, with 'Hacker's Memory' frequently praised for its emotional depth and improved plot.
- Long playtime with significant grind (weight 0.08): The game offers a considerable amount of content, with 100% completion or platinum trophy acquisition often requiring 100-300+ hours. Many achievements are tied to extensive grinding, contributing to the game's lengthy time commitment.
- Benefits from fan language patches (weight 0.05): The community has developed several fan-made translation patches, particularly for Spanish, which are highly recommended for non-English speaking players. Many hope that future Digimon titles will include native support for more languages.
- An older game with no updates (weight 0.03): Originally released on PS Vita in 2015, the game has not received any significant updates since approximately 2019. This contributes to some players noting its dated aspects, though many accept this given its age.
- Compares to other JRPG titles (weight 0.02): Players frequently draw comparisons between this game and other JRPG franchises like MegaTen, Persona, SMT, Yakuza, or even MegaMan Battle Network. This helps define its genre and aesthetic, influencing player expectations and reception.

Emotions:
- Satisfaction (weight 0.32): Players express high satisfaction due to the game's engaging and well-written story, memorable characters, and comprehensive lore. The deep and addictive Digimon collection and evolution system, coupled with strategic combat and overall high game quality, contribute significantly to this positive emotion, often exceeding expectations and providing great value for Digimon fans.
- Frustration (weight 0.17): Frustration primarily stems from the excessive and often unskippable dialogue, which slows pacing and makes the game feel like a visual novel. Other key causes include repetitive grinding for Digimon evolution, numerous technical issues such as crashes and poor PC porting (controls, camera, lack of QoL like autosave/fast travel), and confusing mission guidance.
- Disappointment (weight 0.14): Disappointment arises from unmet expectations regarding the story, characters, and overall game quality, often exacerbated by bland environments and unengaging battles. Players also express disappointment over technical issues that hinder gameplay, the absence of desired features like localization or a thriving online multiplayer, and the game's perceived failure to deliver value or compare favorably to other titles.
- Excitement (weight 0.08): Excitement is generated by the game's captivating story, often featuring intriguing plot twists and well-realized characters. Players are also thrilled by the addictive Digimon collection and evolution mechanics, the prospect of future games (especially sequels like "Time Stranger"), and the overall high quality of the game's presentation, often leading to strong recommendations.
- Joy (weight 0.07): Joy is frequently expressed due to the game's inherently fun gameplay, particularly the engaging battle mechanics and the satisfying process of Digimon evolution. The well-loved story, charming characters, and strong nostalgic connection to the Digimon anime and childhood memories significantly contribute to a deeply enjoyable and often addictive experience.
- Boredom (weight 0.04): Boredom largely stems from the game's excessive and often irrelevant dialogue, which forces players to skip content and breaks gameplay flow. Repetitive missions, uninspired environments, and monotonous combat contribute to a slow pace and a tedious experience, especially during prolonged grinding.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.03): Enjoyment comes from the overall positive RPG experience, highlighted by engaging turn-based combat and the satisfying Digimon evolution and collection systems. Players appreciate the captivating story, well-developed characters, and interesting side quests, which together create an immersive and consistently fun gameplay loop.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.02): Nostalgia is a strong emotion driven by players' long-standing connection to the Digimon franchise, often evoking cherished childhood memories of the anime and older games. The ability to scan, hatch, and evolve beloved Digimon, and the game's resemblance to past Digimon titles, significantly contribute to this sentimental experience.
- Anger (weight 0.02): Anger is primarily fueled by game-breaking bugs that cause lost progress and technical issues that render the game unplayable. Poor design choices, such as the lack of an autosave feature, fixed camera angles, and unskippable dialogues, also provoke strong negative reactions and a perception of developer incompetence or malicious intent.
- Relief (weight 0.02): Relief is felt when players successfully resolve technical issues like crashes or softlocks, often through workarounds or fan-made patches, particularly concerning Steam Deck compatibility. It also stems from discovering that the game's grinding isn't as bad as expected or that the story eventually pays off, making the experience more manageable and enjoyable.
- Annoyance (weight 0.01): Annoyance largely stems from mandatory unskippable dialogues and cutscenes, forcing players to repeatedly watch content. The repetitive nature of grinding, particularly the constant digivolution and de-digivolution mechanics, along with outdated controls and fixed camera angles, also contribute significantly to this frustration.
- Anticipation (weight 0.01): Anticipation primarily revolves around upcoming releases in the series, particularly the "Time Stranger" game, which players hope will offer new content and improvements. The prospect of a long and engaging game experience, including collecting all available Digimon, also contributes to a sense of excitement for future gameplay.
- Hope (weight 0.01): Hope is expressed for future improvements in Digimon games, including better localization, enhanced game design, and improved quality-of-life features. Players also eagerly anticipate successful sequels, such as "Time Stranger," and express a desire for more Digimon titles to be released on PC, along with community-made translation efforts.
- Surprise (weight 0.01): Surprise often arises from the game significantly exceeding low initial expectations, particularly regarding its overall quality and compelling story. Players are pleasantly surprised by the game's extensiveness, the variety of Digimon, and the impressive quality of the PC port, especially considering its handheld origins.
- Confusion (weight 0.01): Confusion is typically caused by unclear quest guidance and convoluted game mechanics, particularly the complex Digivolving system and hidden stats. Players also express bewilderment over unintuitive UI, strange button layouts, and difficulties accessing basic settings or resolving technical incompatibilities.
- Engagement (weight 0): Engagement is driven by the game's interesting and captivating story, which quickly draws players into its world and compelling plot twists. Deep mechanics, well-developed characters, and a unique gameplay loop also contribute to a strong sense of immersion and a desire to continuously play.
- Appreciation (weight 0): Appreciation is shown for the developers' evident care in crafting the game, particularly in providing complete parallel storylines like Hacker's Memory. Players value the mature themes, ethical dilemmas, and emotional depth explored in the narrative, often highlighting the artistic blend of visuals and audio that enhances the storytelling.
- Admiration (weight 0): Admiration is directed towards the game's overall high quality, including its impressive graphics, Digimon designs, and cinematics, often viewing it as superior to contemporary monster-collecting games. The compelling story, rich symbolism, and the well-developed charisma of specific characters like Wormmon also inspire this emotion.
- Amusement (weight 0): Amusement stems from unexpected humorous elements within the game, such as quirky Digimon texts, ridiculous evolutions, and the game's overall "anime concentrate" style. Players are entertained by specific dialogues, informal language, and the general lightheartedness found amidst the more serious narrative.
- Sadness (weight 0): Sadness is often tied to the emotional impact of the Hacker's Memory storyline, particularly its poignant ending, which leaves players feeling empty. It also arises from unfulfilled expectations regarding desired gameplay styles and a broader lament for the perceived scarcity of high-quality games within the Digimon franchise.}