The team-based hero shooter Marvel Rivals dropped a new trailer at Gamescom's Opening Night Live showcase tonight, revealing two new playable heroes and, more importantly, a release date of December 6.

The new heroes, who will be playable at launch, are Captain America—who honestly I'm a little surprised wasn't included right from the start—and his perennial frenemy, the Winter Soldier. Details on the characters haven't been revealed yet, but we'll no doubt be hearing more about that soon.

The bigger deal, of course, is the release date. Marvel Rivals ran a closed beta test earlier this year that didn't exactly knock our socks off—online editor Fraser Brown called it "aggressively bad," while news writer Elie Gould took a more charitable view, describing it as "pretty agreeable" and also noting that it was still early days for the game.

The obvious hope is that developer NetEase has made the changes and adjustments necessary to improve the experience, and the good news is that it won't cost you anything to find out: One big advantage that Marvel Rivals holds over its obvious competitor Overwatch 2 is that Rivals is completely free to play, with all heroes unlocked at launch.

NetEase also confirmed that future Marvel Rivals beta tests are on the way ahead of the full release—you can sign up to take part at marvelrivals.com.

© NetEase

I'm calling it: 2024 is the year of the mech. We've got Helldivers mechs, farming mechs, and we just got a fresh look at Mecha Break at Gamescom Opening Night Live, showing off the mech-combat action that we first laid eyes on at last year's Game Awards.

The trailer contained, well, a lot of geared-up mechs squaring off and hitting each other, but also showcased classes like snipers, attackers, and defenders.

I'm very curious about this one. After PCG's Ted Litchfield chatted to studio boss Kris Kwok about the game's 60-person battle royale/extraction shooter hybrid mode earlier this year, I've been eager to get my hands on it. Mashing up mech customisation with a big chaotic battle royale thing sounds like precisely the kind of nonsense I can get into.

Unfortunately, I missed my chance on PC. Mecha Break got its first open beta on our platform of choice a few weeks ago, and the studio is currently in the process of bragging about its stats. At the beta's peak, it pulled over 51,000 concurrent players on Steam and another 120,000 via its Chinese launcher. The game has also garnered 2.8 million registrations and features on over a million Steam wishlists, say the devs, probably in case yours isn't one of them.

Alas, if you want hands-on time with Mecha Break in the near future, you'd better hope you got into its upcoming Xbox Closed Beta, which runs from August 25 until August 27. If not, you're stuck waiting until the game's scheduled release in early 2025.

Anyway, this is just the opening salvo for this year's Gamescom shindig. If you want to keep track of all of PCG's coverage, make sure to keep an eye on our site for all the news and previews coming out of Gamescom 2024.

© Amazing Seasun

Arc Raiders is finally coming out of the shadows. First announced back in 2021 as a free-to-play co-op shooter set in a post-apocalyptic world dominated by dangerous robots, Arc Raiders is the second game from Embark Studios, the Nexon-backed house of ex-DICE devs that also makes The Finals. Arc Raiders was developed in parallel with The Finals, and was once meant to be Embark's debut game, but was delayed as priorities shifted to the free-to-play shooter. We didn't hear anything else about Arc Raiders for a long time, until Embark shared last year that the project had pivoted from a purely PvE co-op shooter to a PvPvE extraction shooter.

Today, Embark reintroduced Arc Raiders to the public at the Gamescom Opening Night Live show, and dropped another major update: Arc Raiders is no longer free-to-play, and will instead have a regular price tag.

In a press briefing held last week, executive producer Aleksander Grøndal discussed Embark's reasoning for the change:

"You may remember that we first intended for Arc Raiders to be a free-to-play game," Grøndal said. "After careful assessment, we decided the premium business model is a great fit for the experience that we're building."

When asked about why the premium model is perfect for Arc Raiders but not, say, The Finals or Nexon's latest hit The First Descendant, Grøndal's response was surprisingly candid.

"For free-to-play games, they need to strike a careful balance between providing engaging content and encouraging players to make purchases," he said. "For Arc Raiders, this shift will allow us to focus more on the engagement, fun, and impact on choices with regards to how the game evolves over time. So we can optimize differently in this game, and give out more rewards as the player progresses, as an example."

I mean, yes, agreed: Free-to-play is nice because it's free to play, but the true cost of entry is a little piece of our souls. To play a live service game in 2024 is to be ferociously hounded by battle pass upgrades, store updates, and general monetization spam at every turn. It's remarkable how much of a major multiplayer game's real estate is now dedicated to ads and shiny levers that make numbers go up and bank balance go down. It's hard to shake the feeling that you're not playing a game as much as you're visiting a digital store that just happens to have a game attached to it.

"Our decision with regards to Arc Raiders specifically doesn't reflect on what our other games are up to. We are trying to do what's best for the game and for the players," he continued. 

What Grøndal is saying in so many words is that Embark believes Arc Raiders is better when it doesn't have to focus on in-game monetization. That's a nice mindset, though I'll have to see it to believe it. He didn't say Arc Raiders wouldn't have microtransactions.

This makes Arc Raiders the latest member of a small club of multiplayer games betting on an upfront buy-in over the turbulent waters of free-to-play. Helldivers 2 charged $40 and became one of the biggest games in the world, and Sony's hero FPS Concord is releasing this week for $40 with zero microtransactions (and zero hype, it seems).

In a press release, Grøndal added: "This shift allows us to focus on what truly matters for this game — creating an engaging, balanced, and replayable action survival experience." Like Sony's batch of service games, Arc Raiders will be $40.

Gameplay reveal

The briefing also included our first decent look at Arc Raiders gameplay. You play as a raider—a resident of an underground city who regularly ventures to the surface to scavenge for supplies. The threats on the surface are twofold: there are AI bots wandering around attacking anything that moves, and other raiders (players) competing for all the loot.

Sounds like a generic extraction shooter setup—a genre that we're in no short supply of at the moment—but Arc Raiders' emphasis on PvE robot fights does stand out. Similar to Hunt: Showdown, I get the sense that the environment will be just as lethal as players, and that careful movement through bot-infested territory is crucial.

We also got a brief look at gunplay. Arc Raiders is a third-person shooter, but you can see a lot of The Finals in there: ballistics are loud and punchy, sound travels far, and grenades have a bouncy quality. What we didn't see was any fancy server-side destruction tech—that one might be a Finals exclusive.

A few other details to note:

• Embark isn't sure what the max lobby size will be yet
• New players can backfill into a session as others extract from the map
• Arc Raiders will have multiple big maps that share a larger region, similar to Escape From Tarkov
• There is some sort of underground base building or customization element to Arc Raiders

Arc Raiders isn't out until sometime in 2025, but Embark is running its first public playtest much sooner: October 24 to 27. You can sign up on the game's Steam page.

© Embark Studios

Like many others, my exposure to the long-running and legendary Warhammer series has been primarily through its videogame adaptations that have graced PC and consoles over the years. In fact, the original Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine was my first experience with the franchise back when I played it on the PlayStation 3 in 2011.

With the imminent release of Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 more than a decade later, the sequel has a lot to prove in terms of modernizing its tried-and-tested approach to a third-person shooter.

Thankfully, from my 4-5 hours with the preview build of Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2, I can safely say that fans of the original, or even fans of just over-the-top action shooters, are in for a treat. Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 elevates things up to 11, bringing with it what appears to be a solid story campaign on top of a fun multiplayer mission mode, reminiscent of Warhammer 40,000: Darktide’s mission-based structure.

For the uninitiated, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 once again places players back into the mud and blood-caked boots of Captain Titus of the Ultramarines unit, this time tasked against fighting a splinter scourge of Tyranids. In the preview demo I was given access to, I got to play the opening mission of the campaign alongside two others, as Space Marine 2 allows for full co-op action.

Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 features six distinct classes to pick from during missions. Campaign levels instead assign the party leader to play as Titus, who in-game is classified as an Assault unit, which, as far as gameplay mechanics are concerned, gives the player access to a heavy Thunder Hammer melee weapon, a booster pack which allows for a devasting ground pound special attack, along with a decent amount of verticality thanks to being able to jump around and get to higher elevation quickly.

The other five classes become available when playing the mission mode present in Space Marine 2, which unlocks after completing the first campaign level This ends with a fun boss encounter against the Chaos Sorcerer — a Psyker-adjacent powered-up magic caster that highlights Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2’s potential for enemy variety.

“Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 elevates things up to 11.”

Progressing through the campaign unlocks access to the main area of Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2, which allows the player to customize their own Ultramarine unit, choosing from the six available classes, gradually unlocking new modifiers and cosmetics, along with character-specific skills that help distinguish each character class.

If you’ve played Warhammer 40,000: Darktide before, the approach to missions and the multiplayer lobby in Space Marine 2 will feel very familiar to returning players. Outside of the Assault class, Space Marine 2 features the Tactical, Vanguard, Bulwark, Sniper and Heavy classes to pick from. Starting with the Tactical unit, players can expect a similar feeling range of melee prowess to the Assault class, replacing the hammer with a chainsword alongside the Auspex Scan ability, which highlights enemies hidden in the environment and temporarily makes them susceptible to bonus damage.

“…at least during this small, early look at Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2, I can safely say that the variety in abilities and weapon loadouts feel good and work excellently together.

Conversely, the Vanguard is a bulkier unit equipped with a combat knife that dishes out chip damage when combined with the Grapnel Launcher ability, which can launch the player towards a target, quickly closing the gap, allowing to get in those extra hits hasten the proc for finishing moves.

The heaviest two units present in the game, however, would be the Bulwark and the aptly named Heavy Unit. The Bulward features a large shield capable of mowing through hordes of enemies, along with the Chapter Banner unique ability that casts an AoE buff, restoring all player shields. In contrast, the Heavy unit, instead, features a powerful shotgun-like Heavy Bolter weapon along with the Iron Halo ability, a bubble shield that protects against ranged attacks.

Finally, the Sniper unit features, as the name may suggest, a solid range-focused Bolt Sniper Rifle, the combat knife and the ability to go invisible for you and your squad before attacking, making it viable to single-out and stagger larger enemies before mopping up the minions.

Although not as drastically different in how the classes feel, when compared to something like Darktide, at least during this small, early look at Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2, I can safely say that the variety in abilities and weapon loadouts feel good and work excellently together. They create a sense of synergy between you and your squad mates, particularly during boss encounters, which can really test your mettle.

“The core gameplay loop in Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 will feel familiar to third-person shooter fans…”

The core gameplay loop in Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 will feel familiar to third-person shooter fans and, of course, to those who played the first entry into the series. Thankfully, outside of a gigantic leap in graphic fidelity, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 fixes one of the most significant issues of the first game: taking damage during prolonged animations, such as when performing an execution move.

Speaking of execution moves, this was one of the most satisfying elements for me during my time with Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2, to the point where I found myself trying to cherry-pick kills from my friends in the hopes of getting that sweet, sweet execution to proc. In fact, I hope the addition of team-based executions is something that may be in the game once it finally sees release in September.

Overall, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 is shaping up to be a solid entry into the rich world of the Warhammer franchise and a worthy sequel to the 2011 original. It is worth keeping on your radar for both fans of the source material and TPS fanatics.

HBO's The Last of Us—the TV show based on Naughty Dog's game—was pretty dang great. It felt like a faithful recreation of all the things that made TLOU such a videogame landmark, but with some fresh touches and considerations. For example, episode three's reimagining of trap-happy hermit Bill had the tidy benefit of improving his story while adding weight and a sense of dramatic irony to Joel's. Also, Nick Offerman was in it, which is a gold star in my book.

As such I'm pretty dang excited for the second season, which just got its first proper trailer as part of a "Coming to Max in 2024-2025" teaser (starting at around 1:16). I'm going to get into some moderate spoilers for the opening hours of The Last of Us Part 2 and, by proxy, the season itself.

The trailer opens on the back of Ellie's head in a near shot-for-shot recreation of the dance scene from The Last of Us Part 2—we also see Ellie's "chemical burn", a self-inflicted wound she used to cover up her bite. So far, so faithful—then bam, Catherine O’Hara.

For those not in the know, emmy-award winning actress Catherine O’Hara is one of those new additions I was talking about. First announced to be playing an "unannounced" part back in February, O'Hara is predominantly known for her roles in comedies like Schitt's Creek.

Her "undisclosed role" appears, at first glance, to be some kind of therapist in Jackson—I say this because she's looking very civilised and put together, a thing you only manage in The Last of Us if you're in a place of relative safety. Jackson's the only place Joel visits that fits said bill.

Though, as some eagle-eyed observers have pointed out, Joel's response to O'Hara's character ("I saved her") is actually lifted from his confession to Tommy in the game—all this to say, either that scene's changed, or O'Hara's role in the trailer is an editing misdirect and she's talking to someone else entirely.

We also get to see some glimpses of Abby—well, we get to see her crawling under a fence buckling under the weight of a horde of infected, a set piece also plucked from the game. I'm sure nothing else as stressful will happen to her as the episodes progress. Happy endings for all—just, try not to think about the Seraphites (who also make an appearance here).

It seems like HBO's The Last of Us started as it meant to carry on—this trailer shows, much like the first season, a set of scenes faithfully recreated from the game with just enough alterations to make watching it worthwhile. Not that that's a bad thing—besides, the first season played second fiddle in popularity next to House of the Dragon, so I'd be shocked if we aren't in for an era of prestige TV reimaginings.

© HBO's The Last of Us (<a href="https://youtu.be/7_fSOMJxgVk" target="_blank">Coming to Max in 2024-2025</a>).

The poor, unwanted MD-17 Anti-Tank Mines stratagem has been foisted upon players yet again in Helldivers 2—these mines, which have been ready-to-go since April, have been rejected by the community three separate times. No, really:

• April: Helldivers 2 players ignore the MD-17 Anti-Tank Mines in favour of the RL-77 Airburst Rocket Launcher.
• May: Those same players are tasked with killing 2 billion Automatons to get the anti-tank mines. They fail to do so.
• June: Patriots are given a choice—get the MD-17 Anti-Tank Mines or save the sick, imaginary videogame children. They chose the children.

Essentially, avoiding these mines—which are, objectively, a new gameplay feature players are choosing not to receive—has become a running joke, and developer Arrowhead Games has quietly admitted defeat:

"High Command has ordered an Efficacy Review of the currently available Mine Stratagems," reads an in-game announcement. "To enable this review, the Helldivers are ordered to kill or dismantle the targeted number of Liberty's enemies," that is, a whopping 1.5 billion foes, and far too little time to kill them in.

The kicker? A new stratagem, which is, again, a straight upgrade for the player base at large, is being used as a failure state: "If the targeted number of enemies are eliminated, then the currently available Mine Stratagems will be deemed sufficient, and no additions will be authorised at this time."

It's not looking great for mine haters, though—at the time of writing, approximately 720 million foes have fallen to Super Earth's might, which isn't even scraping 50%. The Major Order has one day left, and it began on Friday, August 2. The galaxy's finest just aren't spreading democracy fast enough, but given how exhausted Arrowhead Games must be, watching these mines gather dust, I can't help but wonder if they've been set up to fail by the short timespan.

While divers did kill 2 billion bugs in a day back in April, that was still during a peak of the game's popularity, when Helldivers 2 was averaging around 250,000 thousand players on Steam daily. Right now the 24-hour peak is 38,654. Still very successful by live service game metrics—especially one made by a smaller studio—but operating at around a seventh of the capacity it was then.

Still, like ill-mannered schoolchildren smugly watching their teacher have a meltdown—and I mean that with the utmost respect and appreciation—the player base seems to be smugly satisfied that it took Joel saddling them with an impossible goal, not enough time to tackle it, and using the stratagem as punishment just to get it into their hands. As Reddit user AgentNewMexico puts it: "Honestly, kudos to the community for making this Arrowhead's solution to giving us the mines … Well done, everyone. Stand proud, Divers, our meme is strong."

Considering some of the beefier tank enemies that'll be featured in The Escalation of Freedom, a major content update that'll be deploying tomorrow, ol' Joel might be doing players a mercy here—though given how under-used mines are in the current meta, I wonder if this beefier version will see much play.

© Arrowhead Game Studios

Title: The Order: 1886
Type of Game: Action-Adventure, Third-Person Shooter
Developer: Ready at Dawn
Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment
Released: February 20, 2015
Platforms Available: PlayStation 4
Platform Reviewed: PlayStation 4
Maturity: Mature 17+
Reading Time: 10 minutes

A Visual Marvel with Gameplay Shortcomings

The Order: 1886 was first introduced with the Playstation 4, and for many gamers, it was a symbol of how good games could look on the console. The game’s graphics are undeniably stunning, setting a new standard for visual fidelity in gaming. However, with more snippets and previews of the game, nervousness grew in the gaming community, and sadly rightly so.

An Intriguing Premise

What’s appealing about The Order: 1886 isn’t just the graphics, but the subject matter. The game is set in London in 1886 in an alternate reality, in which you take on the role of the knight Galahad. He is a member of the ancient Order of the Protectors of the British Kingdom, which is currently facing two troubles. The first is rebels unhappy with the government and social and political conditions in the British Empire, the second is attacks by werewolves. To make matters worse, a certain Jack the Ripper is on the streets of London. The knights have their hands full, but fortunately, they each have a vial of living water from which, if they suffer serious injuries, they can just drink a little and continue the fight. The same substance also prolongs the lives of the warriors of this Order, which last for centuries.

Plot and Characterization

The game’s story develops a conspiracy theme, and all the time, you are searching for who is actually pulling the strings behind the scenes and who is the traitor. The overall design, setting, and craftsmanship are of such a high standard that you can almost forgive the plot for logical flaws and places where everything doesn’t quite fit together. However, there is one major hitch. The characters are easy to remember and are instead one of the game’s strengths, the exception being the protagonist, unfortunately. Sir Galahad is a perpetually grumpy sociopath without a shred of character who has no problem with “chivalrously” murdering even those he’s not even sure are his enemies. Perhaps never before in an action game have I felt so bad that maybe I shouldn’t kill everything that moves.

World-Building Through Articles and Audio Tapes

As for the world, the game also illustrates everything around you through the newspaper articles you come across while playing. For some reason, however, the articles you find aren’t saved anywhere, and you have to read them in-game at any given moment. Plus, to show how detailed their game’s graphics are, the developers only show them in ant-like writing on newsprint. I’d like to know more about the world, but I’m not going to ruin my eyesight for it. The other source of information is the audio tapes, which you can thankfully listen to later.

An Unresolved Ending

While I’m on the subject of the problems with the story, I mustn’t forget the absolutely crucial problem, and that is the ending. The game ends in a “sequel next time” style, with the vast majority of the plot completely unresolved. So, after eight hours of play and a very unsatisfying final battle, the game waves goodbye hints at the next installment, and the disc can go back into the box.

Lack of Multiplayer and Replayability

The Order: 1886 also contains no multiplayer. If you think you’re going to create your own knight and then work your way up to it by fighting in tournaments or taking down werewolves in co-op, you need more time. There is no such thing in the game. Also, forget about any Game Plus. The game doesn’t have a character, weapon, or ability upgrade system where you can start your next playthrough with your Galahad 2.0. I’ve already talked about the collectibles issues, plus The Order: 1886 certainly doesn’t encourage any exploration of alternate or hidden paths, thanks to its corridor tuning. There are only three difficulty levels to choose from. How to make a linear, action-oriented single-player campaign game was demonstrated, for example, by Wolfenstein, which also came out in the early PlayStation 4 era.

Linear and Constrained Gameplay

Fans of action games know that the term “corridor” or “tunnel” for contemporary linear action isn’t exactly accurate. There is a clear tendency here to stretch maps wide. More expansiveness and more possible paths, or corridors if you will, not only make for more tactical firefights with exploitative environments but also encourage further exploration and replayability. The Order: 1886 is not like that. The movement options here are very limited indeed. Levels are limited to bridges, alleys, corridors, and more corridors. I still remember to this day when one of the last shootouts in the game at the time shoved me into such a tight space that I couldn’t even use the cover-for-obstacles system.

I felt like the developers were perhaps kidding themselves. At least with shootouts, you can appreciate the rich arsenal, which includes some interesting bits. The best of these is a weapon that first fills an area with thermite, which you can then blast away with a single shot. Unfortunately, I only got to this weapon once during my playthrough, but maybe I was just looking for it wrong. Again, only two weapons can be carried at a time, and again, you must hold the assigned button to collect any ammo or grenades. Galahad can also activate a time slowdown during an action, but this didn’t help me much in practice as it’s handled rather clumsily.

A number of things are missing from the game. You can only do rolls if an enemy throws a grenade at you. You can’t throw it back, by the way, and you have to select it as your primary weapon when actually using it – it doesn’t have its own button. It’s also not possible to switch the camera view over your left or right shoulder when aiming. Of course, you can’t miss the exploding barrels, though.

Incompetent AI and Partner System

As for your fellow soldiers, it’s perhaps even more terrifying than usual. We’ve already gotten used to having an incompetent partner by your side during action games. It makes sense; if he was doing a lot of the work for you, you’d get bored. However, Bioshock: Infinite and The Last of Us have shown that it can be done in other ways. The solution is special, supportive abilities for your teammates. The Order: 1886’s squadmates, on the other hand, possess unprecedented incompetence, and during firefights in which you slaughter endless mobs of your supposed enemies, you’re virtually unaware of your squadmates. Wait, I have yet to mention quick-time events.

The Annoyance of Quick-Time Events

For the lucky uninitiated, first, an explanation. Quick time events (QTEs) are the parts of games where the game signals you to press a given button that appears on the screen within a specific short period of time. I don’t like QTEs much in action games in general; perhaps the only exception is the God of War series of games.

Repetitive Boss Fights

The boss fights in The Order: 1886 look spectacular, but they’re primitive. It’s brands like God of War with episodes like Chains of Olympus and Ghost of Sparta that were obviously the biggest inspiration, but the big problem here is that with God of War, it was done and felt, which can’t be said for The Order: 1886. The developers had the foolish idea that it could work here. And preferably often. A lot. QTEs are elevated to a new level of annoyance in The Order. I could still bite through the moments during sequences where QTEs jump out at you, but even something as routine as silent attacks from behind work in a QTE-based game.

Fights with werewolves are another example. Everything plays out according to the same script over and over again. Galahad stands in a warehouse-type room and has to defend himself against two or three charging creatures. Machine gun, QTE, machine gun, QTE. The two boss fights in the game (including the last one) are based on a combination of quick-time events and primitive controls. Both arcades are precisely the same. Indeed, the final fight is a de facto copy of the one you encounter halfway through the game.

Innovative but Underused Gameplay Mechanics

At the same time, The Order: 1886 has some interesting ideas regarding gameplay mechanics for its time and using the then-new controller. Mating locks, for example, take advantage of the intensity of the vibrations in the controller. Other times, you give Morse code air support via a touchpad press. When hacking, it’s time to play with the analog sticks. But after that, it’s back to the classic scheme of a movie, QTE, corridor shootout, and so on. What’s missing are the genuinely memorable sequences and levels with the excellent design we know from the Uncharted and God of War series.

The Power of Graphics and Narrative

It probably looks like I must have suffered a lot while playing, but it’s not like that. In fact, The Order: 1886 reminded me of the power graphics and narrative can have on the overall impression of a game. The game looks better than anything else on the PlayStation 4 of the time and for several years afterward. The environments are incredibly detailed, and the game’s levels and locations are filled with individual items that are a joy to behold. I have to single out the reflections and flares of light from individual objects and puddles or the detailed character models. Their animations are mostly realistic and wonderfully fluid.

Before launching the game, I was a bit suspicious that it would suffer from an unstable framerate, but this was not confirmed. It runs at a steady 30 frames per second without any twitching or slowdown. I just didn’t like the unnecessary black bars above and below the image. I welcomed this element in Evil Within, as it helped to add to the nervousness of the horror with a limited view, but here it is an annoying uselessness. Also, the destruction of the environment could have been greater – for example, you can shoot through some of the wood in the game but not others. Certain parts of the game, where the wildest firefights occurred, shouldn’t be recognizable after shooting enemies. Still, only some objects are interactive, and the memory of the fights remains mostly holes in the walls.

Audio Landscape

It’s a bit sad that the creators didn’t play more with the sound. The soundtrack lacks a distinctive central melody or an enjoyable, memorable accompaniment. Even more disappointing is the sound effects mix, which lacks depth as it usually lacks, for example, echo or decay where you would expect it.

Conclusion

Despite all the negatives, I must admit that The Order: 1886 held me pretty well throughout my time playing it. The game looks so amazing that you just can’t help but want to see what other locations the game has to offer. Despite the problems mentioned above, the story also keeps your curiosity, but primarily due to the technical aspect and the appealing setting. It does not, however, completely turn a blind eye to the negatives.

Where to Buy The Order: 1886

PlayStation Store (PlayStation 4): Available for $19.99. You can find it on the PlayStation Store.

The post The Order: 1886 – Visual Masterpiece or Gameplay Letdown? appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home for Top Gamers.

Helldivers 2 appears to be finding its stride after a launch that I hesitate to describe as a rocky one, only because it was more of a rollercoaster—incredible popularity in its opening months that tanked servers for weeks, a huge, stonking controversy that saw it glassed with a review bombing, and what overall seems like a wild scramble to meet the demands of its sudden spotlight.

The solution, sensibly, involves slower but more comprehensive updates, such as The Escalation of Freedom, which is coming next week. It seems like Arrowhead's strung its bow on making sure the next few updates add to the game's core systems, too, as outright stated by the company's fairly-fresh CEO asking Reddit for help.

Help brainstorm ideas for resource use for progression from r/Helldivers

Shams Jorjani, who stepped into the role back in May, promises that he's received blessings from the game's designers and that he's not "on a wild business suit venture here." He then goes on to admit that, once you've bought all of the game's upgrades, there's really not much to spend anything on—leading to most dedicated patriots sitting on mountains of slips like Scrooge McDuck with a rocket launcher.

"We have our own designs and ideas but we'd love to hear yours. In due course we'll probably be formalising how we solicit feedback like this into proper surveys, but I'm just a humble nerd asking for your help for now."

Jorjani does, however, caution readers to not "interpret this as a promise or indication that things might or will change or that your ideas will ever be used" which is, well, wise, considering that the Helldivers 2 community is pretty impassioned, for good or for ill.

Honestly, I'd consider this crowdsourcing attempt a pretty decent success, as there are a few very solid ideas in here. The cream of the crop—as best summarised by user SiccSemperTyrannis—is the idea of being able to donate your resources to community-wide modifiers that aid in the Galactic War or provide universal benefits to players. Or, alternatively, cash in on single-mission boosts for endgame divers with too many space rocks.

There are some other suggestions which are neat—for example, weapon attachments—but they are, in my opinion, just kicking the can further down the road. What Helldivers 2 really needs is a persistent money sink, and to that you need to look at how MMOs tend to handle that—namely, repair costs, consumables, and vanity items.

The above suggestions would slot nicely into the "consumables" part of that equation. Most MMORPGs ask players to gather stacks of food, weapon whetstones, and potions not because it adds more complexity to the game (though that is an added bonus) but because doing so gives players a reason to continue to spend money once they've got everything they already want (it also helps to reduce digital inflation, though Helldivers 2 doesn't have that issue).

As for what Jorjani brings to the public forum: "My suggestion (which was shot down) was to just copy the Goldeneye64 modifiers as a fun thing to unlock for missions. That or we suspend [creative director Johan] Pilestedt over one of those water tanks, and once we hit XXXX whatever spent we dump him in it." Poor Pilestedt. I wonder if they'll feed him to Joel.

© Arrowhead Games

I can't explain why, but I've always suspected that Space Marines, under all the power armor heavy plating, would be alright to hang out with. There's a kind of genetically-modified, ritually-weaponized "dudes rock" energy there that I can appreciate. And based on the Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 gameplay overview trailer released yesterday, it looks like I'll be able to test my theory firsthand. At last: a game that gives us a chance to see how the Emperor's biggest sons spend their downtime.

The gameplay overview kicks off with a look at Space Marine 2's campaign mode, picking up the story of protagonist Titus a century after the first game. We're shown the jungles and planet-spanning metropolises Titus and his Space Marine comrades will battle through with chainswords and bolt pistols as they fight "seemingly endless waves" of Tyranids, thanks to Saber Interactive's "unique swarm technology." It looks promising, with some nimble transitions between melee combat and third-person shooting.

But more importantly for me, we learn about the Battle Barge—one of the battleship fortresses of the Space Marines, which we'll head back to between sorties to tweak gear loadouts, choose from available missions, and "gather intel" by chatting with the lads. I'm unironically really excited to get to poke around a detailed Space Marine ship, and not just because I'm convinced that the Ultramarines are probably huge gossips. I mean, those big blue boys are the closest thing the Space Marines have to a cheerleader squad. What else are you going to do in the grim darkness of the 41st millennium where there is only war, if not chitchat? I bet they've got savage rumors about the Space Wolves.

The gameplay overview also gives us some additional glimpses of the replayability-focused Operations co-op mode and the competitive 6v6 matches of Eternal War. While there aren't many new specifics about how they'll play, the trailer details how both modes fit into the game's progression, which looks pretty elaborate compared to the first Space Marine game.

While playing either Operations or Eternal War, you'll unlock cosmetics for your bespoke Space Marine, as well as experience and "armory data" to spend on skill and gear upgrades. The six playable Space Marine classes have their own skill trees, while it looks like individual weapon types have "perk trees" of their own. Additionally, as you use a weapon, it seems like you'll unlock modified variants of that weapon archetype. A "master-crafted" auto bolt rifle shown in the video had increased accuracy compared to the default variant, but decreased magazine capacity and ammo reserves.

As for the cosmetics, we get to see a bit more of the menus for customizing your Space Marine, and it seems as granular as you'd hope. It looks like there will be plenty of individual armor components to unlock and swap around, and you'll be able to assign an overall color scheme as well as component-specific colors and heraldry. I am going to spend hours in those menus. Can't wait.

Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 releases on September 9, 2024.

© Saber Interactive

All being said, Helldivers 2's latest patch appears to have been a solid hit with players, which is a relief. While the game's never going to claw its way back to its stratospheric 400,000 player peak—a normal thing for most live-service phenomena—it's nestled into a very respectable 50,000-player average. Doubly so considering everyone and their Mohg is playing a little game called Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree, right now.

Well, there is one exception—it's a good patch for everyone but the Spear—a rocket launcher I am about to humanise to a weird degree, because for some reason I just feel so bad for the little guy. In case you don't know your history, the FAF-14 Spear has been a bit of an underdog since launch. Chiefly, because its targeting system was utterly busted.

Intended to be a long-range solution to all your unexploded problems, the Spear's meant to fire a guided missile into liberty's enemies. Only, it rarely did that, because the targeting computer was incredibly unhelpful—it would rarely lock on to what you wanted, and even when it did, it had a propensity to whiff for no discernable reason.

An end to its woes seemed in sight when the patch notes dropped earlier this month: "The FAF-14 Spear targeting has been reworked," they optimistically read, "and should now function much better. However it has lost the ability to target Automaton Spawners, this is not intended and will be fixed in the future."

Unfortunately, another unintended thing happened. The Spear (bless its heart, it's trying so hard) started crashing games. In response to player reports, community manager Twinbeard confirmed on the Helldivers 2 Discord that the Spear's haunted: "Yeah, there are crashes affiliated with the Spear right now. We're looking into it. Seems the Spear is cursed."

In a later message, Twinbeard added that players experiencing trouble should "pray to the diver gods, perform a Spear exorcism, [and] say 100 hail Liberty" but, most importantly, "hope that High Command and Ministry of Defence manage to produce a hotfix. (Maybe even next week)."

So pour one out for the spear, the rocket launcher that really, really couldn't. I'm hoping it'll finally claim its rightful place as "a weapon you want to use, sometimes" because it's a killer concept on paper. In the meantime, you might have another rocket launcher to try out soon.

© Arrowhead Games

Title: Helldivers 2
Developer: Arrowhead Game Studios
Publisher: PlayStation Studios
Released: February 8, 2024
Platforms Available: PlayStation 5, PC
Platform Reviewed: PlayStation 5
Article Reading Time: 20 minutes

Welcome to the War for Super Earth

Helldivers 2, released in February 2024, has burst onto the gaming scene with explosive force, redefining what cooperative shooters can be. Developed by Arrowhead Game Studios and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment, this title quickly became a smash hit on both PlayStation 5 and PC platforms. The initial surge of players was so overwhelming that the servers had to hustle to keep up, a testament to the game’s incredible popularity.

One of the most striking features of Helldivers 2 is its relentless pace and the epic scale of its battles. Players are constantly on the move, juggling numerous actions within seconds. Precision and quick reflexes are key, but the thrill of successfully navigating these intense firefights is well worth the effort. The transition from the original game’s isometric view to a third-person perspective has transformed Helldivers 2 into a visually stunning, blockbuster-worthy experience. This new perspective, combined with top-notch graphics and immersive sound design, has significantly broadened its appeal, drawing in a wider audience.

The community’s reaction has been electric. Helldivers 2 has not only maintained its dedicated fanbase but has also drawn in a flood of new players, particularly through Steam. The game’s humor and satirical take on spreading “managed democracy” add a unique twist that resonates with fans. Technically, the game impresses with detailed environments, even if the frequent fog hints at a deeper story about humanity’s impact on alien worlds.

Humor is a big part of Helldivers 2’s charm. The game is peppered with witty quotes and humorous hints that keep the tone light-hearted amidst the chaos. One memorable loading screen hint advises players: “Don’t die.” This kind of tongue-in-cheek humor, reminiscent of Starship Troopers or Outer Worlds, adds a delightful layer of charm to the game, making it as fun as it is challenging.

Helldivers 2 is a whirlwind of action, stunning visuals, and sharp wit that keeps players hooked and entertained. The chaotic battles, the immersive world, and the satirical humor combine to create a game that’s as engaging as it is challenging.

From Top-Down Tactics to In-Your-Face Action

Helldivers 2 takes a bold step forward by transitioning from the original game’s isometric view to a dynamic third-person perspective. This change significantly enhances the gameplay experience, making every encounter feel more immediate and intense.

Enhanced Immersion

The third-person perspective in Helldivers 2 draws players directly into the heat of battle. The detailed environments and character models create a more immersive experience, making the alien landscapes feel alive and threatening. This shift makes every firefight more personal and engaging. The new perspective allows players to better appreciate the stunning graphics and meticulous design of the game’s world.

Gameplay Mechanics

The gameplay mechanics in Helldivers 2 have evolved to match the new perspective. Movement is now more fluid and responsive, with abilities like diving into a prone position and executing quick evasive maneuvers adding depth to the tactical gameplay. These additions make positioning and mobility crucial for survival, requiring players to constantly adapt to the chaos around them.

Aiming and shooting have been refined to be more intuitive and satisfying. The use of the DualSense controller on the PS5 enhances the experience with tactile feedback, making each shot and movement feel impactful. The combination of visual and mechanical improvements ensures that every firefight is intense and rewarding.

Unique Tactics for Different Enemies

In Helldivers 2, players face off against two primary enemy factions: Terminids and Automatons. Each faction requires a different approach and set of strategies. The Terminids, resembling swarming insects, can easily overwhelm players with their sheer numbers. They have specific weak spots that players need to target, often requiring heavy firepower and defensive stratagems to manage the hordes effectively.

Automatons, on the other hand, are intelligent robotic enemies that use advanced tactics. They can spot players from a distance and call for reinforcements, making them more challenging to deal with. Players must use cover effectively and employ precision weapons and armor-piercing attacks to take down these robotic foes. The need to adapt to these two very different enemy types keeps the gameplay fresh and challenging.

Environmental Interaction

The diverse landscapes in Helldivers 2 play a significant role in shaping the player’s strategy. Higher vantage points can be used for sniping, while rugged terrain might offer cover from enemy fire. Utilizing stratagems like jump packs allows players to navigate these environments more effectively, adding another layer of strategy to the game. Predicting enemy movements based on the terrain and planning accordingly can be crucial for mission success.

Team Dynamics and Humor

Interactions with other players add a layer of unpredictability and humor to the game. Friendly fire is a common occurrence, leading to tense yet often hilarious moments. The need to constantly be aware of teammates’ positions and actions adds to the chaos and fun of the game. However, this can also lead to frustrations, such as being kicked from a game just before completing a hard mission. Despite these occasional annoyances, the cooperative nature of Helldivers 2 fosters a strong sense of camaraderie.

One humorous moment might involve accidentally throwing a grenade at a teammate, only to have to rush to revive them while still under enemy fire. These moments, while sometimes frustrating, contribute to the game’s unique charm and keep players engaged.

Helldivers 2’s third-person perspective, refined mechanics, and immersive environments create a game that is both challenging and incredibly engaging. The new abilities and stratagems required to succeed add depth and excitement to the gameplay, ensuring that players are constantly on the edge of their seats.

Democracy and Destruction – Gameplay Mechanics

Helldivers 2 is a masterclass in balancing chaos and strategy. The core gameplay mechanics are designed to keep players constantly engaged, requiring quick reflexes, sharp strategic thinking, and seamless teamwork.

Core Mechanics

The core mechanics of Helldivers 2 revolve around fluid movement, precise shooting, and strategic use of stratagems. The game is fast-paced, with players needing to manage their positioning and actions meticulously. The third-person perspective makes aiming and shooting more intuitive, while the responsive movement controls allow for quick dodges and tactical repositioning. The use of the DualSense controller on the PS5 adds a layer of tactile feedback, making every action feel more immersive and satisfying.

Mission Objectives

Missions in Helldivers 2 are varied and challenging, ensuring that players remain engaged throughout. Primary objectives can include exterminating hordes of Terminids, destroying enemy structures, or rescuing captured allies. Each mission requires different strategies and approaches, keeping the gameplay fresh and dynamic. The game’s persistent universe means that the outcomes of these missions can have a lasting impact on the overall war effort, adding a sense of importance to each task.

Stratagems and Weapons

Stratagems are a key component of Helldivers 2’s gameplay, providing players with powerful tools to turn the tide of battle. These can include defensive turrets, airstrikes, and supply drops, which are called in using specific input combinations. The strategic use of stratagems is crucial, especially when facing overwhelming odds. Different missions and enemy types may require different stratagems, adding a layer of depth to the strategic planning.

The game features a wide variety of weapons, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Players can customize their loadouts to suit their playstyle and the specific challenges of a mission. Whether it’s a high-powered sniper rifle for picking off distant targets or a heavy machine gun for mowing down swarms of enemies, the right weapon can make all the difference.

Adapting to Enemy Types

In Helldivers 2, players face two primary enemy factions: Terminids and Automatons. Each requires a different tactical approach. Terminids are insect-like creatures that swarm in large numbers, making crowd control and area-of-effect weapons essential. Identifying and exploiting their weak spots, such as their underbellies and legs, is key to taking them down efficiently.

Automatons, in contrast, are intelligent robots that utilize advanced tactics. They can spot players from a distance and call in reinforcements, requiring players to stay on their toes. These enemies are more susceptible to energy weapons and armor-piercing attacks. Effective use of cover and strategic positioning are crucial when dealing with Automatons, as their ranged attacks can quickly overwhelm an unprepared team.

Environmental Interaction

The diverse environments in Helldivers 2 play a significant role in shaping player strategies. Terrain features such as elevated positions, cover points, and chokepoints can be used to the players’ advantage. Using a jump pack to gain a high vantage point for sniping or finding natural cover to protect against enemy fire are just a few ways the environment can be leveraged strategically. Understanding and utilizing the terrain is often the difference between success and failure in missions.

Solo Play vs. Cooperative Play

While Helldivers 2 shines in its cooperative multiplayer mode, it also allows for solo play. Even the most challenging missions can be tackled alone, providing a different kind of thrill and requiring careful planning and execution. However, the game truly comes to life when played with others. The co-op element adds a layer of camaraderie and teamwork that enhances the overall experience. Joining a squad and embarking on missions together is highly recommended, as it amplifies the fun and strategic depth of the game.

Humor and Cooperative Dynamics

Humor is an integral part of the Helldivers 2 experience. The game is filled with witty quotes and humorous moments, from the “Don’t die” loading screen hint to the chaos of friendly fire incidents. These elements add a light-hearted touch to the intense gameplay, making the experience more enjoyable.

The cooperative nature of Helldivers 2 means that teamwork is essential. Players must coordinate their actions, communicate effectively, and support each other to succeed.

Persistent Universe – The Galactic War Effort

Helldivers 2 takes cooperative gameplay to another level by immersing players in a persistent universe where their actions have lasting consequences. This galactic war effort adds a layer of depth and continuity to the game, making every mission feel significant in the grand scheme of things.

The Persistent Universe

In Helldivers 2, players are part of a larger war effort to spread “managed democracy” across the galaxy. The game’s persistent universe means that each completed mission contributes to the overall control of various planets. The outcomes of these missions affect the balance of power in the galaxy, with regions potentially falling under enemy control or being secured by the Helldivers.

Galactic Campaign

The galactic campaign is a dynamic and evolving conflict. Players can see the progress of the war effort on a galaxy map, which shows the territories controlled by Super Earth, the Terminids, and the Automatons. This map updates in real-time, reflecting the successes and failures of players worldwide. The sense of being part of a global community working towards a common goal adds a unique layer of engagement to the game.

Impact of Player Actions

Every mission, whether it involves defending a planet, launching an assault, or completing specific objectives, contributes to the larger war effort. Players’ actions can lead to significant shifts in control, impacting the availability of resources and strategic advantages. This interconnectedness ensures that individual efforts feel meaningful, as they directly influence the overall success of the Helldivers.

Collaborative Strategy

The persistent universe encourages collaborative strategy among players. Teams must coordinate not only within individual missions but also in planning their contributions to the galactic campaign. Choosing which planets to defend or attack can be crucial, as losing key locations might give enemies the upper hand. This strategic layer adds depth to the cooperative experience, requiring players to think beyond immediate objectives.

Events and Major Battles

Helldivers 2 features dynamic events and major battles that can significantly influence the galactic war. These events might include large-scale invasions by enemy forces, special missions with unique objectives, or opportunities to reclaim lost territories. Participating in these events can yield substantial rewards and have a lasting impact on the war effort.

Community and Player Involvement

The community plays a vital role in the persistent universe. Players often share strategies and coordinate efforts through forums and social media, discussing the best ways to approach the galactic campaign. This communal involvement enhances the sense of camaraderie and shared purpose, making the game’s universe feel alive and interactive.

Evolving Storyline

The persistent universe also supports an evolving storyline. As players achieve milestones and complete critical missions, new elements are introduced, advancing the overall plot. These developments are influenced by player actions, ensuring that the plot feels dynamic and responsive to the community’s efforts.

Personal Investment and Rewards

The persistent universe fosters a strong sense of personal investment. Knowing that their actions contribute to a larger cause motivates players to engage deeply with the game. The rewards for participating in the galactic campaign, such as exclusive gear and upgrades, provide tangible incentives to stay involved and strive for success.

Moral Dilemmas in the War Effort

The game introduces moral dilemmas that affect strategic decisions within the persistent universe. Players might face choices that have ethical implications, such as deciding whether to deploy anti-tank mines or save civilians in distress. These dilemmas add a layer of complexity and encourage players to consider the broader impact of their actions.

Helldivers 2’s persistent universe and galactic war effort create a rich, interconnected experience that goes beyond traditional cooperative gameplay. The dynamic campaign, collaborative strategy, and evolving plot ensure that every mission feels significant, fostering a strong sense of community and purpose among players. This innovative approach to game design sets Helldivers 2 apart, making it a compelling and immersive title in the cooperative shooter genre.

Visuals and Technical Triumphs

Helldivers 2 stands out with its impressive visuals and technical capabilities, showcasing what a cooperative shooter can deliver in terms of graphics and performance.

Graphical Fidelity and Visual Design

Helldivers 2 immediately impresses with its detailed and dynamic visuals. The transition to a third-person perspective enhances the immersive experience, bringing the richly textured alien landscapes to life. From the grotesque forms of the Terminids to the sleek designs of the Automatons, the game’s visual design is top-notch. The foggy environments add an extra layer of atmosphere, hinting at the broader story about humanity’s impact on alien worlds.

Lighting and particle effects are particularly effective, with explosions lighting up the battlefield and dynamic shadows creating a more realistic environment. The attention to detail in both character and enemy models makes each encounter visually engaging and intense.

Performance and Technical Stability

Despite its high graphical fidelity, Helldivers 2 maintains solid performance across both PlayStation and PC. Even during intense battles, the game runs smoothly, ensuring that players can rely on precise control and quick reflexes.

Initial launch issues included server stability and matchmaking problems, largely due to the unexpected influx of players. Arrowhead Game Studios responded quickly, rolling out updates that significantly improved stability and performance. These technical improvements have helped maintain a consistent and enjoyable gaming experience.

Sound Design and Immersion

Sound design is a critical component of Helldivers 2’s immersive experience. Sharp and clear audio cues provide essential feedback during battles. The distinct sounds of different weapons, the roar of explosions, and the eerie cries of the Terminids all contribute to the game’s atmospheric tension.

The DualSense controller on the PS5 adds another dimension to this immersion. Haptic feedback and adaptive triggers make each shot and movement feel tangible, enhancing the connection to the game. The tactile sensation of firing a weapon or feeling an explosion through the controller adds depth to the overall experience.

Environmental Detail and Interaction

Environments in Helldivers 2 are not only visually impressive but also strategically significant. Each landscape is designed to offer both challenges and opportunities. Elevated positions can be used for sniping, dense foliage for cover, and destructible environments force players to constantly adapt their strategies.

Players can use environmental features to their advantage, setting traps or funneling enemies into kill zones. The diversity of environments, from barren wastelands to lush alien jungles, keeps the gameplay experience varied and engaging.

Community Response and Feedback

The response from the community regarding Helldivers 2’s visuals and technical aspects has been generally positive. Players appreciate the detailed graphics and smooth performance, which enhance the overall gaming experience. The humorous and satirical tone of the game is also reflected in its visual style, adding to its charm.

However, some criticisms have been noted. The foggy landscapes can obscure important details, making navigation difficult at times. Additionally, while the game’s performance is generally stable, occasional bugs and glitches have been reported, particularly in the early days following the release.

Despite these minor issues, Helldivers 2’s combination of detailed visuals, immersive sound design, and solid performance creates a compelling and engaging experience. The game’s technical achievements contribute significantly to its appeal, ensuring that players remain captivated by its dynamic and immersive world.

Satirical Storytelling – The Heartbeat of Helldivers 2

Helldivers 2 isn’t just about intense firefights and strategic gameplay; it’s also rich with satirical storytelling and dark humor that add depth and character to the game. The plot revolves around the tongue-in-cheek concept of spreading “managed democracy” across the galaxy, providing a satirical take on militaristic patriotism.

Satirical Tone

The game is built around the idea of the Helldivers, elite soldiers tasked with enforcing the will of Super Earth. The game’s satire pokes fun at the often over-the-top nature of military propaganda and the idea of spreading democracy by force. This is evident from the game’s introductory tutorial, which features exaggerated patriotic language and dramatic flair, reminiscent of classic satirical works like Starship Troopers.

The story is delivered through various in-game elements, including mission briefings, propaganda broadcasts, and loading screen hints. These elements combine to create a cohesive and amusing backdrop for the gameplay, keeping the tone light-hearted even as players face the game’s numerous challenges.

Humorous Moments and Quotes

Helldivers 2 is filled with witty quotes and humorous moments that keep players entertained. Loading screen hints like “Don’t die” are a perfect example of the game’s playful tone. The dialogue and interactions between characters are often laced with humor, adding to the overall charm of the game.

One memorable moment comes from the mission briefings, where the commanding officers often deliver lines with exaggerated seriousness, creating a humorous contrast with the chaotic nature of the missions themselves. These moments help to keep the game’s tone consistent and engaging, providing a welcome respite from the intensity of the battles.

Player-Driven Elements

The persistent universe of Helldivers 2 allows players to influence the broader story through their actions. Each mission completed, and each enemy defeated contributes to the overall war effort, impacting the control of various planets within the galaxy. This player-driven element adds a layer of depth, making players feel like their actions have real consequences in the game’s universe.

Connecting to the Original Game

Helldivers 2 maintains a strong connection to the original game through its humor and plotlines. The game’s world picks up where the first left off, with humanity continuing its struggle to spread “managed democracy” across the stars. Returning players will appreciate the continuity and the familiar satirical tone, while new players will quickly be drawn into the game’s unique world.

Community and Engagement

The game’s community also plays a role in its storytelling. Players often share their own humorous and dramatic experiences from missions, creating a shared narrative that extends beyond the game itself. This communal aspect enhances the overall experience, making the game’s world feel more alive and interconnected.

Critical Reception

The humor and player-driven elements of Helldivers 2 have been well-received by critics and players alike. The satirical take on military themes and the clever use of humor set the game apart from other shooters, providing a unique and memorable experience. Reviews often highlight the game’s storytelling as one of its standout features, praising its ability to balance humor and action effectively.

Helldivers 2’s storytelling is a blend of satire, humor, and player-driven elements that create a rich and engaging experience. The game’s unique approach to storytelling, combined with its intense gameplay and cooperative dynamics, makes it a standout title in the genre.

A Chaotic and Comedic Masterpiece

Helldivers 2 combines intense action, strategic depth, and a satirical edge to create a challenging and entertaining experience. The game’s blend of humor and chaos sets it apart, making it a standout title in the cooperative shooter genre.

Intense Action

Helldivers 2 delivers non-stop action, requiring players to stay alert and responsive. The fast-paced gameplay demands quick reflexes and sharp strategic thinking. Whether you’re dodging enemy fire, coordinating airstrikes, or deploying defensive stratagems, the intensity never lets up. This relentless pace keeps players engaged and ensures that every mission feels like a high-stakes operation.

Strategic Depth

Beneath the chaotic surface lies a deep layer of strategy. The diverse range of enemies, each with their unique strengths and weaknesses, requires players to adapt their tactics constantly. The variety of stratagems, from defensive turrets to powerful airstrikes, adds a strategic element to the gameplay, requiring careful planning and execution. The persistent universe and the galactic war effort further enhance the strategic depth, making every decision impactful.

Satirical Edge

The satirical edge of Helldivers 2 provides a humorous and critical perspective on militaristic themes. The exaggerated patriotic rhetoric and humorous in-game quotes create a unique atmosphere that balances the intense action with light-hearted humor. This approach keeps the game engaging and entertaining, even during the most challenging missions.

Community Engagement

The cooperative nature of Helldivers 2 fosters a strong sense of community among players. The shared objectives and collaborative strategies create a bond between players, enhancing the overall experience. The game’s persistent universe and evolving storyline encourage players to stay engaged and invested in the ongoing war effort.

Technical Excellence

The technical aspects of Helldivers 2, from its stunning graphics to its immersive sound design, contribute significantly to its appeal. The game’s smooth performance, detailed environments, and responsive controls create an immersive and enjoyable experience. Using the DualSense controller on the PS5 adds another layer of immersion, making every action feel tangible and impactful.

Overall Impact

Helldivers 2 is a chaotic and comedic masterpiece that combines intense action, strategic depth, and a satirical edge to create a unique and engaging experience. The game’s blend of humor, chaos, and community engagement sets it apart in the cooperative shooter genre, making it a must-play title for fans of intense and immersive gameplay. With its dynamic gameplay, persistent universe, and technical excellence, Helldivers 2 stands out as a shining example of what cooperative shooters can achieve.

Where to Buy Helldivers 2

1. Steam (PC): Available for $39.99. You can purchase the game directly from Steam
2. PlayStation Store (PS5): The game is priced at $59.99. Check it out on the PlayStation Store
3. GameStop (PC, PS5): Prices range from $37.99 to $59.99. Various editions are available including the Super Citizen Edition. You can explore more on GameStop

The post Helldivers 2: Managed Democracy’s Chaotic Crusade appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home for Top Gamers.

Following months spent reacting to Helldivers 2's unexpectedly huge success, developer Arrowhead Game Studios recently appointed a new CEO, Shams Jorjani, to replace Johan Pilestedt as part of broader structural changes to the company. Now, Jorjani has taken to reddit to introduce himself to the Helldivers 2 community, and outline the direction for the company going forward.

After providing a rundown of his history in the industry (12 years working for Paradox, and a relationship with Arrowhead that stretches back to the original Magicka), Jorjani provides a four-point plan for the future of Arrowhead. The first of these explains the reasoning behind his appointment in the first instance, which is "all about getting Pilen [Jorjani's nickname for Pilestedt] closer to the games." While Pilestedt is no longer CEO, he remains the company's chief creative officer and chairman. Jorjani explains this role means "making new games/prototypes, having more time to play Helldivers, work[ing] closer to Micke [Eriksson] our excellent Game Director and the many other designers/devs we have."

The second point is to maintain Arrowhead's relationship with Sony and improve Helldivers 2 "for as many people as possible". This seems like a tacit reference to those players currently unable to experience Helldivers 2 due to Sony locking out certain countries where PlayStation Network is unavailable.

The third is the most significant to existing Helldivers 2 players, as it details the studio's adjusted strategy for updating the game. "We knew it would be impossible to keep up with demand and the insatiable hunger for more fun shit to do in/with HD2," Jorjani writes. "Our singular focus as a studio is to set things up in a sustainable way so that in the long term we can make more and better stuff. We're building a bit of scaffolding before we can make a bigger barn."

On this subject, it's good to hear that Arrowhead is adjusting itself to better fit the game it has made. But I'm not entirely sure about Jorjani's reasoning here. If anything, the problem has been that Helldivers 2 received too many updates in quick succession, making it hard to keep up with and causing a lot of debate about the game's balance of fun versus challenge.

There's also a more obvious question to ask here, namely that if Arrowhead knew it would be 'impossible to keep up with' Helldivers 2's live-service demands, then why build the game like that in the first place? Perhaps Jorjani is referring to Arrowhead's feelings after the game's launch, when it became clear its success massively outweighed its proposed scope and the resources allocated to it. Still, I think it's a bit of an odd thing to say.

Which brings us, somewhat ironically, onto Jorjani's final point—communication. He believes Arrowhead has set a "great precedent" in being so open and direct with the community, and that Pilestedt will "keep being our BIG voice" while Jorjani will also be paying attention, and together they will "share well articulated feedback about the game internally". He stresses that "It won't mean we'll respond to every thread, whim, or loud voice—but we're here listening."

© Arrowhead Game Studios

Even if Arrowhead is signaling a move towards a slower, more sustainable pace of Helldivers 2 updates, you can never have too many ideas to work with when you're dreaming up the next installment of Super Earth ordinance.  Arrowhead chief creative officer Johan Pilestedt seems to think so, at least. Taking to Twitter over the weekend, Pilestedt put out a call asking for the community's best ideas for Eagle air support stratagems.

Helldivers 2 fans were more than happy to provide their creative input. At time of writing, Pilestedt's request for stratagem ideas has gotten over 5,000 replies. Suggestions range from Dr. Strangelove references to simple requests for punchier strafing run audio. And unsurprisingly, some took the opportunity to air their grievances about balance changes. 

Here's some highlights from the fan stratagem brainstorm: 

• A squad of "3 autonomous mini mechs" to support the players, delivered by fighter jet. Also from the same user: a bomb that sweeps the nearby area with a rotating laser cutter, a la Iron Man 2.
• A jammer to temporarily prevent enemy reinforcements, which Pilestedt noted as echoing the Automatons' jamming towers.
• The Fulton surface-to-air recovery system, which I'm obligated to list as a Metal Gear Solid 5 sicko. "Could be to cash in sample containers," Pilestedt said.
• "Eagle Cryo Spray," to flash-freeze clusters of enemies—potentially offering an opportunity to shatter now-brittle armor plating with conventional weaponry.
• A fighter-deployed swarm of Guard Dog drones, "but they gotta fly higher so I don't get constantly lasered in the face." 

As to whether we're likely to see any of these ideas appear in-game: I wouldn't expect to actually see any mini-mech squads or drone swarms hit the Helldivers battlefield. "Let's see if any gets picked up," Pilestedt said in a follow-up post to appreciate the "many great ideas," which is a gentle let-down if I've ever read one.

Presumably, sourcing feature concepts directly from the community could expose the studio to potential intellectual property disputes, which likely leaves this brainstorming session safely in the realm of a community creative exercise. But you never know with Helldivers 2—if airdropped mini-mech squads eventually appear, I certainly won't refuse them.

© Arrowhead Studios

Valve might have sprung a leak. A handful of screenshots supposedly from Valve's next big game, allegedly a competitive shooter called Deadlock, appeared on 4Chan and Twitter yesterday. The word from multiple dedicated Valve sleuths on Twitter is that Deadlock is a 6v6 third-person shooter that takes inspiration from Overwatch, Team Fortress 2, and Dota 2.

The most confident descriptions of Deadlock are coming from Gabe Follower, a Valve-focused content creator.

"6 vs 6 battling on huge maps with 4 lanes. Usable abilities and items. Tower defense mechanics," he said of the project yesterday on Twitter. "Fantasy setting mixed with steampunk. Magicians, weird creatures and robots. Fast travel using floating rails, similar to Bioshock Infinite."

Gabe Follower also claims that Deadlock is the up-to-date title for a Valve project we already knew existed: Neon Prime. The name change could be explained by a previous version of Deadlock supposedly having a sci-fi art style, since evolving into fantasy and steampunk.

Since testers started sharing Deadlock screenshots all over the place, here's ones I can verify, featuring one of the heroes called Grey Talon. pic.twitter.com/KdZSRxObSzMay 17, 2024

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"Hero design pretty much inspired by Dota universe," he continued. "Main map references modern steampunk European city (little bit like Half-Life). Initially game had sci-fi elements inspired by Half-Life and Portal, but after bad feedback dev team decided to focus on fantasy."

The compressed screenshots making the rounds are unsourced, but they are somewhat convincing. The UI design language, character designs, minimap, and font choices are consistent with Dota. If it's a fabrication, it's a darn good one. Assuming Deadlock is real, the leaks are not getting the most glowing first impressions. Several have been quick to point out that 6v6 shooters with heroes and abilities feels a little old hat in 2024, while others object to its tech fantasy art style that, admittedly, is giving Battleborn.

Predictably, some fans are also disappointed that Valve is making yet another shooter that isn't Team Fortress 3, calling Deadlock a "trend-chasing" effort that doesn't stand out. To be fair, out-of-context screenshots released into the wild from an unfinished game is a surefire way to get negative reactions.

We don't know how long ago these screenshots were taken or how far along the project is now, if it's even real. The whole UI looks like placeholders, and the flat lighting in the depicted maps suggest they're far from complete, too. You only need to glance at Counter-Strike 2 to see how nice a fully-cooked Source 2 game can look these days, so it'd be smart to take these leaks with a grain of salt. What I'm seeing does not inspire joy, but we are potentially talking about the next Valve game. Battleborn vibes and Overwatch comparisons be damned, when the house that Half-Life, Counter-Strike, and Dota 2 built has something cooking, I'm automatically interested.

Enjoying watching everyone hating on 4 badly compressed screenshots of a closed alpha game, while 100% certain they'll be stepping on each other's throats to play it https://t.co/DcImRJSDXhMay 17, 2024

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As Garry's Mod creator Garry Newman put it on Twitter: "Enjoying watching everyone hating on 4 badly compressed screenshots of a closed alpha game, while 100% certain they'll be stepping on each other's throats to play it."

That said, the last decade of Valve's service game focus has produced several high-profile stinkers, too. Artifact, the studio's big swing at Hearthstone, and Dota Underlords, its standalone auto chess spinoff, were total whiffs. We've reached out to Valve for comment and will update this story if we hear more.

© Valve

Title: Resident Evil 4 Remake
Developer: Capcom
Publisher: Capcom
Released: March 24, 2023 on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, and PC
Platform Reviewed: PlayStation 5
Article Reading Time: 10 minutes

Introduction: The Legacy of Resident Evil 4 

Resident Evil 4 has long been one of the most popular installments in the franchise, alongside the second game. When the original game came out in 2005, there was a lot to praise. This action-horror adventure impressed with its approach to storytelling, revolutionary third-person view with over-the-shoulder aiming, the evolution of the game’s universe with a significant change of setting, boss fights, and overall styling and atmosphere. 

But what was once revolutionary is now, at best, a complete staple or, at worst, an outdated element. This was a hugely important and, more importantly, ambitious project for the developers at Capcom. With something so beloved, all it takes is one misstep, and it can all come crashing down like a house of cards. Most importantly, though, that script version only happens here.

Reimagining a Classic: Balancing Old and New

Now that I’ve said the word script, it’s appropriate to start with it because you can already see the direction the remake takes. As we may have become accustomed to from the remakes of the second and third installments, Capcom doesn’t try to copy every event or dialogue. And the same is true this time around. Half and half. The central story points, with some exceptions, happen in the same order; you’ll be walking around the same, albeit often modified, locations and fighting the same enemies. Therefore, the original game’s core has been retained in this respect. However, it has also been improved, even expanded in some cases, or the order of events has been changed. But the core remains the same – you and Leon are sent to find the president’s missing daughter, Ashley, somewhere in a Spanish village. Of course, it will take a lot of work… But I don’t need to say more. The new player will see for himself.

A More Serious Tone: Enhancing Character Depth and Relationships

The original’s unique yet slightly far-fetched style is now more in the background and has been replaced by a more severe presentation. On the one hand, this may be a mistake for some, but the reality is that this is something established and, more importantly, consistent with the previous remakes and new installments. And something that fits the modern form of the franchise perfectly. Leon jokes a little less, performs fewer athletic feats, and takes everything more seriously. At the same time, Ashley finally comes across as at least somewhat of an intelligent person and not a hell-raiser like in the original…

Most importantly, a lot of moments are set in more believable situations. You can see that beautifully in chapter eight, for example. The reason Leon and Ashley are separated this time is not because she suddenly runs away from him in a panic attack and, like a complete fool, walks into an obvious trap that, moreover, seems random and somewhat artificial. The reason for the split now has a lot more depth, which results in the expansion of both Ashley and Leon’s characters and their relationship for the rest of the play. And it doesn’t just apply to them. Even though some cutscenes have been shortened, all of the characters are given more space, depth, and meaning. Story-wise, the remake of Resident Evil 4 is thus a surprising experience, which has matured much more in relation to the original, and its original frequent ailments have been removed. I also have a favorable view of the gameplay. As with the original release of the individual episodes, it goes more and more towards an action shooter. The enclosed corridors of the police station or the action-packed streets of Raccoon City are replaced by the setting of a Spanish village and its immediate surroundings, including a giant castle. Stupid zombies are replaced by villagers with interest in the occult. Here, the core of the original remains, and more importantly, it proves, among other things, how timeless the original game was. 

Gameplay Evolution: Adapting to Modern Standards 

Still, some changes had to be made as the original game was, after all, 18 years old at the time of the release of its remakes. The main one is the whole movement and combat system. Leon is a bit more experienced in the remake, so he can now shoot and walk simultaneously, which was impossible in the second remake. The developers were fearless in experimenting with new things that stuck to the idea of the original setup and, at the same time, things they only worked with in the latest installments. There are even some mechanics that are entirely new to the series. Overall, it makes for something that veterans will recognize and fall in love with anew, but also something that will offer them the chance to look at the game in a new way. 

Stealth and Resource Management: New Mechanics, New Challenges

To be more specific, there is now stealth. With Leon, you can duck and sneak at any time. Larger locations full of villagers can only partially silently traversed. Still, it allows you to get a feel for the area and, more importantly, quietly take out a few before it comes to open combat. There’s also a new weapon that allows you to fire arrows with the ability to take out enemies silently at a slightly greater distance. Yes, combined with stealth, even this may seem like a form of simplification. But some buts balance it out again. Your knife, which can be destroyed this time. Any use of it, whether it’s just silently killing enemies, finishing them off on the ground, or simply using it usually, will slowly start to destroy it, and you can only repair it at the merchant. The ability to parry goes hand in hand with this as well. You can block axe throws from enemies or melee attacks with your knife. Since they are more aggressive and at least in feel, this is an ability I recommend you get as soon as possible. It will save your progress in the game from the last typewriter. But it is something you have to be able to use with the right timing and paying attention to what your opponents are doing. Which, of course can be challenging. So, even in combination with this novelty, the knife works more like a resource that you can waste in a certain way. Therefore, you have to use it with care and discretion, just like in the original, because here, too, every attack and every weapon has its specific use. Combining them and using them correctly in the game still allows a specific form of slow and tactical play to be maintained. This is despite the generally faster and more aggressive gameplay. It’s a fascinating combination that is hard to describe but works.

Minor Additions, Major Impact: Requests, Cases, and Pendants

There are more novelties, but mostly, it’s more of the minor things you’ll come across on your own over time. Whether we’re talking about requests, which are little “side quests” for the merchant, different types of cases and pendants that aren’t just cosmetic as they may seem at first glance.

Room for Improvement: Companion AI, Evasion, and Stealth 

The remake of Resident Evil 4 does an excellent job of being fearless to take away where it doesn’t matter and add where it adds more depth and context. Both in terms of story and gameplay. Still, of course, there are a few things I’d still like to see done a little better. Ashley may be a bit more sensible, but accompanying her in dangerous parts still causes pain at times because she can’t defend herself. Thankfully, you don’t have to address her health directly anymore. The lack of a better evasive maneuver can be frustrating at times when enemies pile up on you from all sides. And the stealth, while it works, could have been more interesting after all, especially when you never know if the enemy can see you or not. Sometimes, he looks at you and pretends nothing; other times, someone starts shouting at you from afar, and most of the time, you don’t even know why. Similarly, the developers could have done with aggressive and nonsensical scripting, where you clear a location, pick up a story item, and suddenly the area is a whole of enemies again. Or someone runs at you from a building you’ve entirely cleared before. 

Audiovisual Overhaul: Reimagining Iconic Designs

Also, of course, the most significant change was the audiovisual aspect of the game. From the original release, the developers tried to leave mainly the design of characters, enemies, and some key and iconic locations or places. The rest, however, has undergone a more or less complete change. You’ll know which way you’re walking most of the time if you’re a player of the original, but at the same time, you will need more time to take the blueprint completely and point to the exact same places. But everything is more settled, more realistic. Combined with the lifelike graphics and another shift in the RE Engine, this creates a unique atmosphere. The excellent presentation is also complemented by great dubbing. Compared to the original, the overall quality and direction are good. Perhaps the only thing that bothered it was Ashley gasping for breath. I don’t know if it was some fault, but the fact that she was constantly huffing behind my neck and acting like she had asthma even when we were standing still was sometimes quite a sacrifice.

Otherwise, the sounds also work great, especially in the larger locations where you can distinguish beautifully where someone is coming from and the music, which is more in the background and only plays at appropriate times. Admittedly, this means that the game lacks any outright soundtrack that will remain in your memory after you’ve finished playing.

The Final Act: An Over-the-Top Spectacle

The biggest issue with Remake Four is the final section. It feels like the developers went overboard with the action, resulting in excessive violence and chaos. At times, it reminded me of the over-the-top nature of Resident Evil 6. You’ll understand what I mean when you experience it for yourself.

Last Rites: A Respectable Homage to a Legendary Game

Capcom has taken their legendary game, removed the flaws where they were, and given the game the gorgeous audiovisual treatment that such a game properly deserves. The gameplay has remained the same at the core but has been reskinned and enhanced with several minor elements, making this game a slightly different but somewhat more fresh experience. The music may not be prominent, but it plays when it really needs to. What, however, was the most damaging aspect of the remake compared to the prequel, which I only mentioned in passing and saved more for the very end, is the sometimes absurd and unnecessary slide into a very action-packed concept, especially in the final third of the game, which was often overdone even by the standards of the third remake. By the end, while I was excited about the story’s climax, I was not so enthusiastic about the gameplay. Still, this is an overall respectable work that pays homage to its predecessor. For fans of the series and the previous remakes, it’s a must-play!

..And VR lovers as well as CAPCOM prepared this extenstion for PSVR2 free for owners and is terrific as we hear , but we did not yet try ourselves.

Purchase Resident Evil 4 Remake is available on multiple platforms:

• Buy RE4 Remake via Official Capcom’s Website
• Resident Evil 4 Remake on Steam – Experience the survival horror classic reborn for a new generation.
• Resident Evil 4 Remake for PS4/PS5 on PlayStation Store – Revisit Leon’s harrowing mission with stunning visuals and enhanced gameplay.
• Resident Evil 4 Remake for Xbox Series X/S on Microsoft Store – Survive the horrors of the Spanish village in this reimagined masterpiece.

The post Resident Evil 4 Remake: Another Great Revival of a Horror Icon appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home for Top Gamers.

_{Title: Mafia 2 (And Definitive Edition)
Developer: 2K Czech (formerly Illusion Softworks) Publisher: 2K Games
Platform Reviewed: PlayStation 4
Released: August 24, 2010 (Original release)
Definitive Edition Release: May 19, 2020
Platforms Available: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, PC (Mafia 2: Definitive Edition is available on PS4, Xbox One, PC)
Article Reading Time: 6 minutes}

The Lowdown on Vito’s Rise

The game’s story is set in the 1940s and 1950s in the fictional city of Empire Bay in the USA, where the game’s protagonist, Vito Scaletta, initially born in Sicily in 1925, moved as a child with his parents and younger sister. Since childhood, Vito has been friends with Sicilian-born heavyweight Joe Barbaro, who got into a lot of trouble until he was arrested in 1943 and was offered the option of either going to prison or going to the war that was currently underway. Vito chose the army and was deployed during Operation Husky when the Allies invaded and occupied Sicily as a staging post for another move. Vito was later wounded there and sent home on leave. At home, he met up with Joe again, and they began planning their future together. Joe even arranged fake discharge papers for Vito from the army, and they were able to embark on their dream of getting rich and making a name for themselves in the criminal underworld, but this time, it was just to work for the Mafia.

To add historical context, the backdrop of the 1940s and 1950s was a time of significant change in America. The aftermath of World War II brought about economic prosperity, changing social norms, and rising organized crime activity. Vito and Joe’s ambition mirrors the era’s entrepreneurial spirit, albeit channeled into less-than-legal enterprises.

Empire Bay: A City with Bite

The most striking thing about the second installment of Mafia is the time and the setting. The 40s and 50s in the US had their charm, which is also true in a game where the player can feel this atmosphere from every corner. The whole of Empire Bay, in which Mafia 2 takes place, is visually beautiful and, at first glance period, accurate and believable. The game’s map can be considered a small open world, but apart from the occasional gun and clothing shop or petrol station, expect little content; it’s more of a highly detailed backdrop for frequent travel within the story. Naturally, you move around the city in a variety of period cars that are lovely to look at and whose driving model is quite pleasant and less responsive than its older 2002 predecessor. Even on ice or snow, the cars are pretty maneuverable, and therefore, you’ll enjoy driving around this beautiful city in a more arcade-style design.

Empire Bay isn’t merely a backdrop but a character in its own right. The game designers likely drew inspiration from real-world cities such as New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles, notorious hotbeds for Mafia activity during this period. Keen-eyed players might even spot visual references to iconic landmarks of these cities.

The Look, The Feel, The Deal

What definitely didn’t offend me was the visuals of the game, which are very solid considering its time and the fact that a major studio didn’t develop it. While the Definitive Edition offers a visual upgrade, it’s not perfect. Cutscenes sometimes lack polish, particularly facial details, feeling like a downgrade from the original in certain aspects. You might also experience occasional texture flickering, especially on the map and in-car views, as well as some quirky NPC behavior. Even clothing textures on your main character can bug out.

Beyond the eye-catching neon and period cars, Empire Bay also showcases subtle visual storytelling. Observe the changing fashion and architecture as you progress through the decades. These details create a strong sense of immersion, making your journey through time feel authentic.

Packing Heat and Making Moves

Mafia 2, like its predecessor, is controlled from a third-person camera perspective but with a distinct difference, this time in cover shooter-style gameplay. Closed cover shooters like Mafia often have a problem with difficulty balance in the form of damage taken, enemy counts, scripts breaking the game’s naturalness, and so on, which is not a problem with the second Mafia. The missions are just so long; you don’t feel like you’re killing half the city in each one, and you don’t have to worry too much about your health on the higher difficulty levels either; it’s just an excellent and balanced cover shooter with a solid fluidity of progression through the individual encounters, whether with rival Mafia or police, and the game overall.

Mafia 2’s cover shooter mechanics were ahead of their time in some ways. Notably, the fluid movement between cover and the destructible environments made for dynamic gunfights for the period. Compare this to other, more static popular titles from the same era for even greater appreciation.

A Soundtrack with a Smooth Hustle

The previously mentioned music has a special place in the second mafia game, as in every game in the series… Songs from the 40s but especially from the 50s by artists such as Bing Crosby, Richard Penniman, or Dean Martin are emblematic of the era, which are complemented by many other well-known songs and, as a whole, form an excellent soundtrack for the game, which will make you feel like you’re in the authentic “50s” when driving through the streets of Empire Bay, for example.

Music holds thematic significance in Mafia 2. The upbeat swing and rock ‘n’ roll hits often play in stark contrast to the darker acts Vito commits. This juxtaposition highlights the moral complexity of the characters and the allure of the criminal lifestyle that the soundtrack embodies.

The Wrap-Up

Mafia 2 might not rewrite the book on open-world action games, but it delivers a tightly-crafted experience. Its evocative setting, smooth gunplay, and a story that grapples with the allure and consequences of the gangster lifestyle make it a worthy play. If you’re craving for a well-paced crime saga with a satisfying dose of period atmosphere, Vito Scaletta’s tale in Empire Bay is an offer worth considering. Just be prepared for a few visual inconsistencies if you opt for the Definitive Edition, which may be your only option because the original game is challenging to get online these days.

Buy Mafia 2: Definitive Edition
PlayStation Store . Xbox Store . Steam . Epic . GOG

The post Mafia 2: Still a Classic, But Does the New Shine Hide the Scuff Marks? appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home of Top Gamers.

_{Title: Mafia: Definitive Edition
Developer: Hangar 13 Publisher: 2K Games
Platform Reviewed: PlayStation 4
Released: September 25, 2020
Platforms Available: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC
Article Reading Time: 9 minutes}

Echoes from Lost Heaven: The Rebirth Review

The first installment of the now cult Mafia was initially developed in 2002 by IllusionSoftworks studio, which was a very popular story shooter that rightfully won the hearts of all players, especially those from the Czech Republic, where the development studio comes from and has permanently been etched in their hearts as perhaps the best game that is being developed in their native country… whether it was in terms of good gameplay, story, music or the legendary and absolutely amazing dubbing that everyone loved and still remembers. After many years of working on other parts of this already-can-be-said series, Hangar 13 Studio took over, and after the not-so-successful Mafia 3, they decided to recreate this game or remake the original episode after more than 18 years.

Tommy’s Transformation and Salieri Saga

Since this is a remake of the original work from 2002, the story again plays the leading role of the originally Italian immigrant from Sicily named Tommy Angelo, who works as a taxi driver in the American city of Lost Heaven in 1930. The country is still feeling the effects of the world economic crisis of 1929, which is one of the reasons why Tommy is forced to work the night shift, which earns more. At the end of one of these night shifts, he first meets a couple of members of the local Mafia working for Don Salieri, whose family is in a long and drawn-out war with the Morello family. The men mentioned above are Paulie and Sam, who are just on the run from members of a rival mafia in a car chase when a crash occurs just around the corner where Tommy is standing with his taxi and Paulie. Sam is looking for a replacement getaway car.

The first person they see on the street is Tommy, of course, and so with a bit of persuasion at gunpoint, they force him to pick them up and drive them to safety. Once safely transported, Tommy receives a decent amount of money from Sam as compensation for the damage to the taxi, services rendered, and a job offer. Still, Tommy accepts only the money and goes back on his way. The next day, he returns to work again but is attacked by Don Morello’s men in the middle of his day shift for helping Paulie and Sam as their enemies. Tommy manages to escape, however, and after a long chase through the streets of Lost Heaven, he escapes to Bar Salieri for help, saying that he has changed his mind about the job offer. Don Salieri accepts it on the condition of passing the test, and Tommy becomes a full-fledged family member. His first years as a member of the Salieri mafia family are relatively quiet, but as the war between the rival mafia families escalates, Tommy begins to have a progressively different view of all the bloodshed he often comes into contact with or is even part of.

Cover Shootouts and Strategy in the Streets of the 1930s

One of the aspects of the game that players of the original Mafia fondly remember is the gameplay, which was traditionally a bit harder in period games but excellent and nicely balanced. This can’t be said about the new Definitive Edition right off the bat. The fundamental way the Definitive Edition’s gameplay differs from the original is that it is, like Mafia 3, a strict cover-shooter, often only partially positively influenced by the level design.

But if we start with the enemies, for example, they sometimes take an exaggerated amount of damage. At the same time, they deal (especially on higher difficulty levels) damage that is sometimes absurd, not to mention their sometimes impossibly good shooting accuracy and reaction time.

Another thing that underlines the negative side of all this is that the number of enemies you encounter in each mission is sometimes even enormous. It doesn’t help that explosive barrels have been added to certain “levels,” which seem to be more for laughs than for any significant use in the game, as the enemies are often so numerous that after killing a few of them, you can’t do much damage by exploding a barrel in their ranks. Also retained from the original game are the first aid kits placed in the missions, which heal a large part of your health, but you lose this health early on at a higher difficulty. The only thing that keeps you alive in the following first aid kit is the health regeneration of up to about 15%, which is simply an incomprehensible move by the developers to have a classic HP system and regeneration simultaneously.

Just like the original, the final edition takes place in a small open world city of Lost Heaven where the player has free movement but certainly can not expect from the city any side content or additional activities but only as a backdrop to the story, although the city is visually charming and does homage to its predecessor, the city has also been modified in some places to give a beautiful view of the surrounding area which adds to the aesthetics of the whole location.

Wheels of the Past

Speaking of the city, unfortunately, another stumbling block in terms of movement around it is the player’s limitation, specifically in missions… In the original game, it was standard to drive through the city at the end of most missions all the way back to the bar, enjoy driving through the city, and appreciate its unique 1930s atmosphere. The definitive edition needs to include this aspect. The missions mostly end with a cutscene, so the game doesn’t give the player the chance to drive around this beautiful city and enjoy it enough, which is a shame because the game itself is visually stunning, including a wide selection of cars that are also very nice to drive and have great audio. Lost Heaven itself also holds a lot of visual charm, yet it begs for more interaction. The driving of the vehicles in this game is delightful, and it is a sheer joy to go around the city with these old beauties from the 1930s based on actual period cars.

Dubbing and Dialogue

Last but not least, it is also necessary to mention that Mafia is very popular in the country of origin, and that is dabbing, which was perhaps the most significant advantage of the original work from 2002. In the definitive edition, the original Czech dubbing is again at a very high level, although some legendary voices have disappeared. As for the more substantial, English dubbing is on an entirely different level from the original; in the original game, the English dubbing was bland and woefully average without emotion, while in the remake, it is first-class work. Hangar 13 took great care in this direction and even chose actors of partial Italian origin for a significant part of the characters, which is noticeably felt in the given characters’ accents and adds to the authenticity of the whole feeling about them.

Soundtracking the Story

Towards the end of the review, it is appropriate to talk about the music, as with most games in general, which underlines the game’s overall experience. The music was great in the original Mafia and even better in the definitive edition. The game’s soundtrack was greatly expanded with new songs, which, however, are surprisingly nostalgic in the spirit of the original soundtrack, from which I felt as if I had heard this music before and it was not wholly new music. This definitely gives the game a big plus…

Legacy and Innovation

To conclude, this is a rather average and sometimes, unfortunately, very annoying cover shooter, which in individual missions, along with enemies and game filler, serves the player more quantity than quality, but with very high-quality dubbing, music, and a story that also hides a certain minor message which more than one player will think about

All this raises the question of how well this remake serves its purpose. Ultimately, Mafia Definitive Edition is a visually stunning, narratively strong experience. The core themes of loyalty, the allure of crime, and its cost resonate as strongly as ever. However, the changes in gameplay and the missed opportunities to breathe more life into the world might be a point of contention for returning fans. As a remake, it faces the eternal question: does it replace the original or exist alongside it as a different take on the classic tale?

If you like Mafia games we have another one for you – Mafia 2 Definitive Edition.

Buy Mafia Definitive Edition
PlayStation Store . Xbox Store . Steam . Epic

The post Rediscovering Mafia in the Definitive Edition appeared first on WePlayGames.net: Home of Top Gamers.