By Tyler Demshki, Staff Writer
Some video games have the potential to become something more than simple games; they can blossom into works of art. With beautiful writing and deep plots, these games become true artistic works. Far Cry 3 Blood Dragon is most certainly not one of these games. And it is glorious.
Developed by Ubisoft, the same studio behind Far Cry 3, Far Cry 3 Blood Dragon is definitely an interesting creature. Although it uses the same engine and many of the assets of Far Cry 3, the game is a standalone title with a completely different direction and tone.
The game takes place in futuristic (by the game’s 80s theme) 2007, after America has engaged in a nuclear war with the Soviet Union. The player controls Mark IV Cyber Commando Sergeant Rex Power Colt as he tracks down the rogue Colonel Sloan, who has fled to an unnamed island. Once there, Rex is captured and his partner Spider is killed. Sloan’s assistant, Dr. Darling, then betrays Sloan and rescues Rex. The plot moves on from here, never particularly intricate or deep, but always humorous and juvenile in the best way possible.
The gameplay is similar to Far Cry 3‘s (an open world shooter with stealth or run-and-gun options) but is naturally more limited due to the game’s scope. The island the player explores is not as large as Far Cry 3’s and the weapon selection is much narrower; however, it is still very enjoyable in its own right. In what other game would one find a quadruple barreled shotgun, or a pistol with a Robocop reference?
Speaking of pop culture references, the game is absolutely full of them, particularly those associated with 80’s pop culture. While this does mean younger gamers may feel a bit alienated, the game is ludicrous enough for anyone to enjoy.
And that is the strength of Far Cry 3 Blood Dragon: the game never takes itself seriously. Whether it is when Rex is swearing at his heads up display during the tutorial or explaining that, for some undisclosed reason, America nuked Canada in the process of defeating the Soviets, the game never drops its lighthearted tone. Laughs come quickly and easily.
Overall, Far Cry 3 Blood Dragon is a worthy purchase, even if your 80s pop culture knowledge is not up to snuff. The gameplay is as tight as that of the original Far Cry 3, but with a tone that revels in its own absurdity. So unless you are a profoundly serious gamer, make some room in your backlog for Far Cry 3 Blood Dragon.
8.5/10
Courtesy of media1.gameinformer.com