PC - Gathering
When you start the game there is an intro move before the menu, it consists of a few clips of the game followed by the usual developer logos. This seems more similar to a movie trailer than a game but it works well and integrates the otherwise boring logos into a more involving context.
The menu is straight forward and it is easy to change options or get into the game. The game itself is preceded by another short intro movie that sets the scene; this again is very cinematic and effectively gets you in the mood for the game. It is followed by a short comic strip with a voice over to explain the start of the story, it is exceptionally well done; being atmospheric and really getting you involved in the story.
Before you are given full control there is a short period where you just walk around and the game introduces the way in which it works and the story line is advanced through comic strips. When the action starts it is a little tricky to get to grips with at first, there is quite a steep learning curve as even the first 'level' is challenging. However you get the hang of it fast and you are always aware of your goals.
The game is fun because not only does it have great FPS action sequences that are both challenging and satisfying but it is all mixed in with a superb plot line. The story and the way it is delivered is arguably better than the game play itself; you cannot help but keep on playing to find out what happens next.
Plus the addition of Bullet Time adds a new dynamic to the traditional FPS mix which gives you a host of new options without being overpowering as it is quite hard to sue well.
The visual effects are pretty standard but there are some nice additions such as seeing the bullet trails when in bullet time and the stylised comic strips are a really effective way of presenting plot developments.
The intelligence is reasonable in the game, it is always challenging although the computer opponents do not do anything that spectacular. Although the game does make you think about how to best get through a level which makes it more interesting than a straight forward shooter.
The immersion is exceptional in this game due to the compelling story and delivery method, not only does the main story get told to you atmospherically but the game is littered with extra bits and pieces that can be picked up if you are paying attention to your surroundings.
The third person view point does take some getting used to for an FPS but it does work effectively when you've got used to it. It is also useful as it allows you to properly admire your skills when you dive off a balcony in slow motion with your guns blazing.
The controls are fine but they do sometimes cause problems in bullet time; this is particularly a problem if you accidentally hit the button and you are sent flying slowly sideways uncontrollably. It is also surprisingly difficult to aim in bullet time, even though it is moving slowly which can be frustrating.
The main ideas which separate it from other games is the method of plot delivery and bullet time; the comic strips are fantastic and make you feel involved in the story much more effectively than cut scenes, the bullet time is also good and adds a cool dynamic to the game play.
You are left feeling like you have watched a great movie where you were the staring character and want to go back and try to pull some more stylish bullet time stunts.
While the game play is often average, it is spiced up by the bullet time but it is the story line which makes this game great.