[tab:Content]First person shooters are certainly a dime a dozen, so when a game gets several sequels and is recognized by name, it generally means is the developers are doing something right. F.E.A.R. 3 is coming this May and, at PAX this past weekend, I got a chance to sit down with one of the new online modes: the appropriately titled F#$%ing Run Mode. While we know the game will contain some standard online modes, as well as the entire campaign in co-op mode, this new mode stands out as one of the freshest in the genre, in a while.
Anyone familiar with the series knows who Alma is. In this new co-op mode, you and three friends are running away from her wall of destruction. In the process, enemies are trying to stop you between the occasional checkpoints. While simple in premise, the fact that there is constant danger lurking behind you really adds a sense of urgency to the mode. Also, if you get a chance to turn around, the wall itself is one impressive visual feat.
If you have played any of the previous games, the controls will be entirely familiar. Checkpoints allow you to stock up on ammo and switch weapons to best fit the situation. It is also imperative to work as a team. If one member goes down, you have to revive them before they are swallowed by the wall. If even just one team member is swallowed up, then it is game over. This doesn’t ruin the competitive aspect, though, as kills and points are earned individually. It straddles the line between working together and trying to be at the top of the ranks.
When I probed the developer about more online modes, he was very quiet on the subject saying they couldn’t talk about them yet. With only two months until release, I am sure we will hear more about them as it nears release. I will be honest, I was skeptical that the F.E.A.R. team could deliver another title that I would care about, but this mode alone was one of the more enjoyable co-op experiences I have played recently. The game is definitely back on my radar.
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