Focused progression-based multiplayer experience.
Co-op play gives the 8-10 hour single player campaign some extra legs, and though it’s a little disappointing that you can’t hop in and out of co-op with anyone online (instead you need to invite someone from your friend’s list, or play split-screen,) it’s a lot of fun with two players as you combine tactics and work together to see off the Chimera threat. That fun-factor is increased 100-fold as soon as you test out the new, streamlined multiplayer component. Wisely, Insomniac has ditched the 60 player skirmishes from Resistance 3 and has opted for a tighter, more team-orientated and intense multiplayer experience. Servers now host 16 player matches and offer five game modes: Team Deathmatch, Chain Reaction, Deathmatch, Breach, and Capture the Flag. Though it’s a mode-set that isn’t as flamboyant as some shooters, and one that already feels like it needs additional content, there’s more than enough variety in the actual gameplay.A customizable progression system awards you for kills and assists, unlocking new load-outs and gracing you with new tactics that you can use against opponents, or for the good of the team– from lightning shields that stun attackers to cloaking devices that allow you to sneak up on opponents. Unlocking upgrades is addictive and the online skirmishes are intense due to the fairly small maps, which range from the seaside of Glamorgan to the mining town of Mt. Pleasant. Servers are well populated and getting into a game has so far been super quick and smooth. We’ve also seen no sign of the lag and frame-rate issues that plagued some of our multiplayer beta sessions. It may have taken three goes to get it right, but finally Insomniac Games has a single player and a multiplayer game to be completely pleased with.
Overall, the magic of Resistance 3 lies in the fact that it makes you feel like you’re in the heart of a real battle for humanity. Insomniac does this through quality production values, solid level design and effects, and a heart-felt story and personable lead character. Weapon variety is fantastic and pacing is slick, while the soundtrack and audio wraps things up nicely, adding real tension and atmosphere to some of the game’s most poignant moments. And that’s just the single player campaign. Step online and a whole community of gamers, still pumped by the immersive single player campaign, are fighting for their lives. Resistance 3 is without question the best game in the series so far, and a real showcase of what we all knew Insomniac could achieve.
HEXUS Rating
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Resistance 3 is available to purchase from Play.com .
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