Alright, to start, historically speaking, I've been told my reviews were a little too clinical and structured in nature. Where I disagree is that, simply put, I think structure and simplicity can sell themselves if done correctly. So I'm challenging myself, how far can I push the standard Graphics/Gameplay/Sound setup review into something both structured and excellent? I'm going to try my best, here's to hoping I succeed.
NewClassic Reviews: F.E.A.R. Combat
[HEADING=2]Introduction[/HEADING]
On your mark, get set... GO!
F.E.A.R. Combat is a free to download [http://files.filefront.com/FEAR+Combat+FREE+Multiplayer/;5417592;/fileinfo.html] and play online First Person Shooter (henceforth FPS) that puts players in the role of an advanced Special Forces-esque squadron member. The game is a smaller part of the already existing game, obviously titled "F.E.A.R." The appeal of this game is that it is both a quality, professional online FPS, and that it is also free. Granted, "free" having some terms and conditions, specifically forcing the end-user to register [http://projectorigin.warnerbros.com/fearcombat/main] before they can play, which is both a hassle and a method of, quite likely, free surveys and advertisements. Not that it costs anything, but it's annoying as hell... Otherwise, it is as-advertised, a free FPS for online gamers. Now, onto the meat.
[HEADING=2]Gameplay[/HEADING]
I don't want to shoot anyone! Don't hurt me... Augh!
The gameplay is devised of standard online-FPS modes. Including standard shoot-it-if-it-moves, Team Shoot-it-if-it-moves, Capture the Flag, King of a few hills, and slow motion capture the flag/shoot-it-if-it-moves. The game types are fairly standard and are likely to be found on just about any other FPS you have the will or want to play.
When you set aside the various game types, you'll find the gameplay itself to consists of trying not to be shot more than twice. The bullets are fairly realistic, in that just a few from any weapon will kill you. So a lot of the game is strategically placing yourself out of the path of bullets. It's a pretty fast-paced game, especially if, like me, you got used to games like Halo which reward you for being shot by scraping a pixel off of your lifebar.
Culture shock aside, the gameplay is rewarding and fun, and encouraging enough to continue running-and-gunning if that's your kinda thing. If you like Multiplayer FPS games, then you'll probably find things to like out of FEAR Combat.
[HEADING=2]Graphics[/HEADING]
Yeah, this doesn't look so bad... Why is there a bullet decal on the carpet?
Considering I run a dinky little laptop to play most of my PC games, it's a miracle I can even run this game. So, graphically, speaking, I can't really force the full-specs out of the game. Hell, I can barely run minimum. As such, I'm a little under qualified to really touch on the full scope of the graphics of this game. That observation aside, even though I can run this game only on minimum, it's still a decently pretty game that doesn't distract or confuse the eyes when you're running around, trying not to get shot.
Although, admittedly, this game isn't "Oh mai gawd, I needs to fraime mai moniter" good like Crysis or Bioshock, but still balances performance and visuals to an acceptable level. Frankly, I'm pretty impressed with the symmetry, even though I'm not impressed horribly by the maximum settings.
[HEADING=2]Sound[/HEADING]
WHAT WAS THAT!? ALL I HEAR IS MY EARS RINGING... AND SHATTERED GLASS!
Guns sound like guns, bullets sound like bullets, people screaming in pain sound like people screaming in pain, and music sounds like eerie metal-bending noises found in every silent warehouse scene of every movie. Ever. There's not a lot to really comment on here, the sounds are adequately used, especially in team-voice functions, to be effective without being distracting.
If you're like me, though, and you value music that sounds like something other than random creaks and groans of old buildings, then you'll probably find yourself running an MP3 player in the background. Not to say that there's anything wrong with that, just makes me feel like something that could've been observed wasn't. Especially since online multiplayer is less about horror, more about shooting it if it mo- Yeah, you get the picture.
[HEADING=2]Lasting Appeal[/HEADING]
He just took out three Aeries like they were nothin- Er... Lame reference...
The gameplay is fun enough to keep you going throughout an entire match, and a couple more afterward. Its enjoyable, simple, a lot of fun, and not terribly difficult to pick up. The biggest issue is the difficulty curve, mostly in the wide gap between more experienced players and the less experienced players. Although, assuming you're familiar with the FPS genre, then the curve isn't going to kill you. It's pretty quick to pick up and run, and still goes the distance.
If you're into this kinda thing, then it'll last you the duration. If not, then don't hold out for this changing your life.
[HEADING=2]Conclusion[/HEADING]
I'm not listening anymore! Lalalalalalala!
Even though I picked on the little flaws of the game, I generally enjoyed F.E.A.R. Combat. The gameplay isn't taxing enough to push me away, nor is it too unrefined to make me put it away forever. Overall, likable, generally fun, and not too displeasing. It's a game that promises just enough to make it sell, and delivers on enough promises to not let down.
[HEADING=2]Verdict[/HEADING]