In an industry flooded with generic first-person shooters and role-playing games, a common complaint among gamers is the lack of fresh and original content in the form of new intellectual properties. Sequels have become a driving force within the industry as the eighth Call of Duty is set for release later this year, and nearly every high profile title this holiday season has a number at the end of the title. While there certainly are benefits to sequels – building upon a universe, improving game play mechanics, etc – there’s nothing like playing something completely original. We here at PlanetXbox360 have waded through the sea of sequels planned for this year and pulled out the top 5 new franchises that are worth checking out.
5. Brink: The developer behind Quake Wars is back and bringing gamers something completely new. Splash Damage has created an entirely unique universe with Brink, and while it is a first-person shooter, its team-based approach to game play will separate it from your run of the mill Halo knockoff. With a heavy emphasis on teamwork, Brink features online play where you and a few of your friends can team up to plow through the campaign. Fortunately, those of you who do not have online access will still be able to enjoy the game, as Splash Damage has worked in competent bots to fight along side you. With so many “lone wolf” style first-person shooters out there, Brink’s community-focused approach is a breath of fresh air.
4. Shadows of the Damned: Fans of Resident Evil or eerily artistic endeavors like Killer 7 should look no further. Shadows of the Damned is a collaboration between two of Japan’s greatest talents: Shinji Mikami (Resident Evil, Vanquish) and Suda 51 (Killer 7, No More Heroes). If you know anything about either of these developers, you’re aware that this game is not for kids… or someone with a weak stomach. Shadows of the Damned is a third person shooter full of gore, sex and strong language. The game puts you in the shoes of Garcia, a guy who has had the unfortunate experience of losing his girlfriend who is now being tortured in the City of the Damned. Naturally, it’s your job to rescue her from this eternity in hell, so plan on killing lots and lots of demons. The dark, gritty and artistic atmosphere of the game screams unique, so gamers looking for a creative blend of third-person action and Japanese charm are in for a treat.
3. Dead Island: Dead Island grabbed the attention of gamers everywhere with an emotionally engaging trailer that took many by surprise. While trailers certainly can be deceiving, game play footage has proven that this is one zombie shooter to look out for. The game takes place on the tropical island of Banoi where a zombie outbreak has infested nearly all of the island’s inhabitants. It’s up to four zombie-immune individuals to protect the rest of the inhabitants from the oncoming ocean of mutants. Players will control their character from the first person perspective and work with three other players much like Left 4 Dead. However, unlike Valve’s zombie shooter, Dead Island doesn’t place an emphasis on gunplay, but rather weapons of all shapes and sizes. If zombie slaying is your thing, then keep your eyes out for this title when it launches in August.
2. L.A. Noire: Those who thought that Rockstar could only make great games if they had Grand Theft Auto in the title were proved wrong when Red Dead Redemption launched last year to much acclaim. This year, Rockstar is launching a completely new IP that is set in L.A. following World War II. What is so unique about L.A. Noire is its fresh approach to game play. You play as Cole Phelps, an employee of the LAPD tasked with solving various crimes. The game features and open world, but one that is not quite as open as you’d expect from a Rockstar title. Fortunately this is to the game’s strength as it creates a much more authentic feel that is driven by a compelling story. With great characters – a staple to any Rockstar game – and exciting crime solving mechanics, we’re looking at one heck of a compelling franchise.
1. Rage: After garnering a whole lot of attention at last year’s E3, it should come as no surprise that Rage is at the top of our list. Id Software’s take on post apocalyptic warfare is mind blowing to say the least. The unique approach to questing, coupled with Id’s fantastic first-person shooing mechanics makes this one compelling package. Think of Fallout as a fluid shooter and you’ve got an idea of what Rage is like. Plus, you’ll get to traverse the world in a number of different vehicles that are equipped to take down anything that may come in your way. There is no doubt that Id has their hands on something really special with Rage.
Conclusion: Well there you have it; five reasons why gamers shouldn’t be complaining about a lack of fresh content. Sure, there’s only five, but quality sure trumps quantity when you’re talking about a $60 purchase. 2011 is turning out to be a great year for games and these new franchises will hopefully make their way into gamers’ hands. After all, we dictate the direction of the market with our wallets.
