PC - VU Games
There is no intro movie when starting the game, which is useful when playing after the first time but it means it does lack a general introduction to set the scene. The menu system is simple and easy to navigate, getting into the game is straightforward and quick.
The lack of introduction movie is rectified by a short sequence when you start a new game, although it reveals little about what is happening it does set the mood for the game. The story of the game is introduces slowly over the first few stages of the game, although an FPS, at this stage you can do nothing except walk around and move items. This is an effective replacement for the traditional introduction sequence as it has the same effect of setting the scene and the story but is also interactive and teaches you the basic controls at the same time.
Overall the experience is a lot more immersive than other games.
The first few stages teach you the basics of how to play and being similar to other FPS games it was easy to pick up. Initially you do lack direction as you have no clear goals and you just have to follow the only route through the game that is available to you, this quickly changes as well scripted game elements get you intrigued and introduce the game story to you.
It takes quite a long time until you get your first weapon and actually get into the action, yet in between scriped scenes it is kept interesting by introducing you to the game world. The game manages to make it exciting by having scripted action and chase sequences even though the player is still unarmed, which just increases the tension.
The game is kept continually fun and exciting by keeping the player on edge, there is never a period where you have plenty of ammo or health for very long and you are continually struggling to beat the next encounter. The encounters themselves are varied and so the play never gets too repetitive, plus the fantastic physics engine adds a new dynamic to the play that makes any situation more interesting.
Besides from the visuals being stunning, they are used cleverly to enhance the game play through the use of shadows, for example; showing you what is around the next corner or concealing game elements.
They also add to the atmosphere by having action having taking place in the background that does not affect the game play, such as glimpses of cityscapes or huge enemy units.
The game intelligence is very good, it is balanced very well so it continually presents you with challenges, it never becomes easy. The enemies are intelligent and will take cover or out manoeuvre you depending on the situation. The friendly characters always speak to you, follow you around and react to what you do rather then following set scripts.
The physics engine makes game immersion particularly good, the ability to interact with almost everything in the environment and use them to your advantage really adds to the game play. The story progression moments are done very well and the realism of the characters adds to the mood. The music is also effective as it picks up during the action but dies down when you are figuring out your next move or listening to something important.
The viewpoint is a classic first person which is completely adequate for the game, the ability to switch into a third person would have been nice so you can see your character and appreciate some of the beautiful settings in the game.
The controls are simple and easy to use, plus fully configurable so you can alter them to your preferred settings.
The most impressive idea is the way the world physics is used to solve problems and let you advance to the next stages of the game. While it does not have many revolutionary ideas above any other FPS, the quality of the story and game play is enough.
You definitely get the urge to complete this game due to the compelling story and because it always offers something new. The best point of the game is the racing through the canals on a jet ski with machine gun, not only for excitement but also the fun of playing with the physics engine.
This game seems to do everything right to create a great FPS game without filling it with needless gimmicks. The only criticism is that it is too linear in that there is only ever one route to follow and the player is left with little choice which does make some situations feel a bit contrived.