Developer(s): Gearbox Software
Publisher(s): Sega
Platform(s): PC, PS3, Xbox 360, Wii U, Cloud Computing
Release Date: February 13, 2013
About six years ago, back when
the current generation of consoles was coming out, there were more than a few
games set in World War II. More were on the horizon, and it was getting old. A
new setting was needed badly. In modern times, the same could be said about
space marines. Halo, Gears of War, Bulletstorm, Warhamer 40,000: Space
Marine...the list goes on. It’s easy to see why: an endless amount of possible
stories and settings, mixed with the success of shooting games. Either way,
space marines are nothing new. With this in mind, how does Aliens: Colonial
Marines set itself apart?
One of the biggest draws of the
game is the source material. James Cameron’s Aliens was a big hit, and still
stands as one of the best science fiction films of all time. The fan base is
large and loyal. To the consumer, that means playing through familiar settings
and themes even if the game isn’t amazing. To the publisher, that means the
game will sell regardless of quality. It’s a win-win situation for the lazy
developer. Fortunately for both parties, Gearbox isn’t looking for a quick
buck. Through interviews with various members of the team, it’s apparent that
this is a passion project, not just a paycheck.
For fans of the film what does
that mean? Players will have the ability to interact with iconic bits of the
film, such as Ripley’s flamethrower, the power loader, and locations straight
out of the film. Sound effects are lifted straight out of the films, such as
the pulse rifle firing. One element that is sure to please diehard fans is
production design. The series did so well due to having excellent set pieces
that truly crafted a universe. Gearbox has gone through and reconstructed these
in wonderful detail to keep the same environment in Colonial Marines. Details
were not skimped on: the slimy look of the Xenomorphs and their habitats has
not been left out and truly adds depth to the world.
There does exist a small number
of people in the world that either have not seen Aliens or did not like the
film. Not to fret, there is plenty in this game for them too. The firefights
look intense, frightening, and, most of all, fun. Throughout the entirety of
the single player campaign is four player drop-in and drop-out co-op. Playing
Colonial Marines alone might be more terrifying and make for a better
experience, but ripping Xenomorphs apart with three friends could never be
dull. And with a campaign that John Mulkey, design director at Gearbox, has
said will be over ten hours, the single player experience won’t leave players
wanting.
One of the biggest selling points
in modern shooters is multiplayer. It can completely make or break a game.
Aliens: Colonial Marines is looking like it will have some intense online play.
The game pits four marines against four aliens in various game modes. Of course
there is the standard team deathmatch, but the main focus here are objective
based modes. One somewhat recent announcement was escape mode. In this mode,
the marines need to get from point A to point B. The aliens need to hunt them
down. Gearbox is remaining silent on other game modes for now, but has always
hinted at a majority of objective based games.
Aliens: Colonial Marines is going
to be one of the first games released on the Wii U alongside with the Xbox 360
and PS3. Other multi-platform releases on the Wii U have been out for a while
on the other systems. According to Gearbox, the Wii U version will be the best
looking version, though no details were given. In terms of gameplay, the screen
on the game pad will serve as the marines’ motion tracker. Presumably, there
are other uses, but Sega, the publisher, has been keeping those uses a
surprise.
Due out in February, Aliens:
Colonial Marines is looking to appeal to fans of the film series and first
person shooter junkies alike. Film buffs will appreciate the attention to
detail, and shooting fans will enjoy the gameplay and differences between this
and other shooting games. This is a space marine game for those of us sick of
space marines.
Preview by Chris Lohr
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chris Lohr is a freelance writer currently in film school. If you’re
looking for him to write for your website, manifesto, or Russian bride
catalogue, send an email to puddinginasock@gmail.com. Put today’s
date as the subject line and include a picture of yourself. Must be DDD free
and willing to host. All Articles by Chris.
Posted in: 
2 comments:
Really excited for this game.
But, one of those screens does not belong! Second from the bottom is from AvP not ACM.
Thank you for noting, fixed it! :)
Post a Comment