“Keylocker: Turn Based Cyberpunk Action” is the latest game developed by Moonana, the studio behind “Virgo Versus The Zodiac,” which I’ve also reviewed (you can check that out HERE). In this new cyberpunk-inspired JRPG, you step into the shoes of B0B0, a singer-songwriter navigating an oppressive world that stifles the power of music. The game features turn-based combat with a rhythm game twist, set in the dystopian world of Saturn, where the melodies you create fuel both your rebellion and your fight for survival.
I’m not going to lie, the premise of “Keylocker” instantly grabbed me as I’m a sucker for the cyberpunk aesthetic. You play as B0B0, one of the Doppelgangers—a set of twins created to fulfill assigned roles in society. B0B0 is part of the lowest caste, expected to labor for the good of Saturn, but she rebels against this destiny. A budding revolution provides the perfect backdrop for her to fight back against the Saturnian Satellites, a ruling body that acts as the planet’s ultimate authority. Music is banned on Saturn, but B0B0 is a member of an illegal band, and with the help of a newly discovered robot drummer, she’s ready to challenge the corrupt regime through her rebellious tunes.
The game offers a unique choice-driven experience. You are given the freedom to choose from various classes, each with its own set of skills and branching storylines. I found this level of customization exciting because it feels like your decisions directly shape the world around you. It gave me the feeling that B0B0’s journey is personal, tailored to how I wanted to approach the fight against the oppressive government. Plus, the skill trees offer deep tactical possibilities that keep combat interesting throughout the game. What really drew me in is the rhythm-based combat system. It isn’t just about picking your moves strategically; it’s about nailing the timing as you execute them. Each attack is fueled by music, and there’s something satisfying about perfectly syncing your inputs to the beat.
This game is a visual stunner. The vibrant colors and detailed character designs make Saturn a compelling place to explore. I was particularly taken by the attention to detail in the art, from the neon-lit streets to the unique character models that make every NPC stand out. Moonana’s art direction has always impressed me, and “Keylocker” raises the bar even further. The music, composed by Elektrobear, is just awesome. It’s not only central to the gameplay but is also filled with tunes that you’ll want to listen to outside of the game. The soundtrack does a great job of setting the tone for the revolution at hand and full of rebellious spirit.
Though “Keylocker” is packed with style and creativity, it isn’t without its shortcomings. The combat system, while initially engaging, can start to feel repetitive over time. After a while, I noticed that the rhythm-based mechanics, which I once loved, became a bit of a grind. The challenge of perfecting the timing for each action is fun at first, but as battles go on, it feels like there could have been more variation in enemy types or attack strategies to keep things fresh. That said, fans of rhythm games who enjoy mastering systems will probably find themselves more entertained by the challenge. The minigames provide another layer of entertainment. The music show minigame, where you play concerts with your band, was a standout moment for me. It’s here where the game truly leans into its musical theme, giving you an opportunity to show off your skills in a fun and engaging way. It’s a nice break from the combat grind.
The writing is sharp, filled with witty dialogue and moments that flesh out the cast of characters. B0B0, in particular, is a protagonist I enjoyed following. Her defiant nature is relatable, and her interactions with the crew and citizens of Saturn give her real depth. You can even choose to befriend or betray these citizens by hacking their profiles, affecting the story’s outcome. Multiple endings based on your choices add replayability, which is always a plus in games like this. So, “Keylocker: Turn Based Cyberpunk Action” is a solid addition to the JRPG genre. While it suffers from some repetitive gameplay elements, the overall experience is still engaging, especially if you enjoy rhythm-based mechanics. With its strong art direction, great soundtrack, and deep world-building, there’s plenty to love.
8/10
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Related: Nick Navarro Reviews
Gaming since I was given an original Nintendo as a kid. I love great storytelling and unique ingenuity. When both collide in a single game, I'm a happy gamer. Twitter/IG @NickNavarro87
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