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'Pragmata': Capcom's new sci-fi universe with innovative combat

The Japanese company's new IP bets on dual combat and a story centered on the bond between the protagonists

Main article of 'Pragmata'
17/04/2026
4 min
  • Release: April 17Platforms: PC, Switch 2, PS5, XSeriesGenre: Action & adventureClassification: PEGI 16Development: CapcomPublishing: Capcom

This 2026, Capcom is on fire. After the new Resident Evil and the new installment of Monster Hunter Stories, both with very good ratings, it's time for a new IP (intellectual property). Pragmata is a science fiction action-adventure game that features innovative third-person shooter combat. The development has not been easy and has been extended for about six years since its presentation, but the final proposal is fresh and risky. The title is also a graphical and technical spectacle worthy of a major production and never forgets that it is a video game designed to entertain. We analyze what Pragmata offers and share our impressions after having played it.

A human story in a cold and hostile environment

The premise of the adventure is simple and direct, and it doesn't take long to put the player in the thick of things. It all begins with a mission at an already established futuristic lunar base, where the expedition discovers that something is wrong. An artificial intelligence has taken control of the station (a classic but also very current premise) and has turned the robots hostile. The astronaut Hugh loses sight of his companions and soon meets a very peculiar android, immune to the AI's control and with the appearance of a little girl. Given the urgency of the situation and the need for help, he baptizes her Diana and they begin an adventure together. This is the starting point of an, ironically, very human relationship.

The adventure is set in a futuristic lunar base.

The protagonist tandem has a clear objective: survive, discover what happened, and return to Earth. Through files, holograms, and the setting itself, the player deciphers the situation. All of this develops an emotional bond between the two main characters, undoubtedly one of the strong points of the title's narrative. Diana's childish curiosity, tenderness, and innocence contrast with Hugh's strong heart and initial coldness. This synergy will be key not only on a personal level but also when entering combat.

A dual combat that mixes puzzles and action

If only one element of Pragmata had to be highlighted, it would undoubtedly be its dual combat system, which requires multitasking. The premise is that enemy robots have very powerful defenses that make them practically invulnerable to Hugh's firearms and that they need to be hacked by Diana to expose their weak points. The player controls both characters in a fluid and intuitive way, which leads to very enjoyable and different combat from the usual.

Diana's hacking ability is an indispensable tool.

) that hacks the defenses of giant robots, and a heroic astronaut who must shoot them down.

Bananza) that hacks the defenses of giant robots, and a heroic astronaut who must shoot them down.

Puzzles must be solved between shots and dodges.

But not everything is action in Pragmata. The gameplay loop also invites exploration of the different base sectors in search of secrets and collectibles, which in turn will serve to evolve the protagonists in various ways. Among the general improvements for the tandem, such as the astronaut's stamina or the android's manipulation power, new weapons, abilities, and cosmetics can also be unlocked. Thus, Hugh and Diana constantly return to their refuge, a hub that serves to exchange their findings and to continue developing their relationship in a safe environment.

A compact adventure that maintains the pace

Pragmata is quite linear and relatively short, as the main campaign lasts about ten hours, although depending on exploration and additional content it can be extended to around fifteen. This plays in its favor, in a way, because it keeps the main mechanics fresh with its variations from beginning to end. Even so, the game offers replayability and new options once the credits roll. For example, a higher difficulty is unlocked to test the most daring players, but new challenges and weapons, among others, are also added, thus extending the playtime. The proposal has a certain arcade spirit and it is not forgotten at any time that it is a video game. Capcom chooses very well how it presents each element, the dynamics generated in its gameplay loop, and the feeling it wants the player to receive when in control.

The bond between the two characters is key to the experience.

On the other hand, the technical optimization of the title is very good in general and showcases the company's RE Engine. The game is released on all current platforms and at a lower price than usual for this type of production, making it easily accessible to interested players. Furthermore, taking advantage of the media impact of the Artemis II lunar mission, the company has taken the opportunity to promote the game and the demo that they have had available for some time. Pragmata is not an extensive or revolutionary title in all its aspects, but its innovative combat system and the bond between its protagonists make it one of Capcom's freshest offerings in recent years.

Trailer for 'Pragmata'
[Code provided by Capcom]
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