Does your spidey sense tingle? Ever feel compelled to equip yourself with a utility belt? Tempted to use that X-ray vision in a bad way? If so, then make way for “Freedom Force vs. The Third Reich,” the latest PC release from little-known game designers Irrational Games. “Freedom Force vs. The Third Reich,” is a brilliantly-made tactical role playing game that provides players with a chance to control a team of superheroes over twenty levels of mayhem as they attempt to preserve peace, liberty and the American way.
“FFv3R” is actually a sequel to the 2002 release “Freedom Force.” The original game featured the origins of the made-up superhero team, Freedom Force, and imposed players into the world of a circa 1940s to ‘50s comic book, also known to collectors of such comic books as “The Golden Age.” Continuing the storyline of the series namesake, “FFv3R” casts off the Golden Age of Comic Books look and goes into the political- and propaganda-filled storylines of the 1960s Atomic Age and the Cold War.
Game play in “FFv3R” is a bit different than what most roleplaying gamers are used to. Everything happens in real time. Players are displayed a large map of the area and they may direct up to four heroes to investigate or enter battle. These heroes then take action using their special powers to overcome the enemy. To slow down the hectic nature of real time situations, players can pause a battle at any time. This ability allows players to examine the battlefield and take appropriate action. Commands and options can all be accessed when the game is paused, allowing for careful planning and execution. Once the flow of time is restored, the heroes will heed your directions and tactical commands.
Taking a cue from real comics, Irrational Games has created intriguing and memorable characters that are just as likable and deep as their real world counterparts. Characters like Minute Man, who is an unquestioning defender of the capitalist system, will engage enemies with the catchphrases “To freedom!” or “Give up you socialist villain!” and will remind players of the patriotic Captain America . Indeed, almost every character in the game has a real world inspiration: The Ant and Spiderman; Alchemiss and Jean Grey; Green Genie and Silver Surfer; and El Diablo and Johnny Blaze.
The super heroes all have special abilities that are as far-reaching as their personalities. These powers all center on the character's storyline and background and will grow as the character's storyline unfolds. Take Tombstone , for example. A botched death in the electric chair transformed him into a supernatural warrior. He can shoot lightning at will and may possess the body of any enemy in the game. As he progresses, he can upgrade with the ability to become a ghost and have weapons pass through him and the ability to teleport. This gives each character a nice range of attacks and increases strategy used when playing levels that are more complex. Besides the pre-made storyline characters, players can create their own superhero, complete with customizable abilities and stats. This adds a new level of replay value to the game and, given some experimentation, can become quite addictive.
While not a commercially hyped up title, “Freedom Force vs. The Third Reich” proves that fancy ads aren't everything. “FFv3R” conjures up the instantly recognizable world of comic books and leaves players free to live out the action in the panels. If you're looking for a change of pace, or just need a fun distraction, check out “Freedom Force vs. The Third Reich.” You can grab the demo at www.freedomfans.com . |
