‘A treasure trove of fun’ is how some gamers are describing Naughty Dog’s Uncharted 4‘s multiplayer game and, while this is the developer’s first attempt at a competitive online mode, their beta release shows that they’ve done a pretty good job. Of course, there are still some elements that would benefit from a bit more work, but overall it’s proved to be popular with both fans and reviewers alike.
So what can we expect from Uncharted 4’s multiplayer game?
Gameplay
Well, there’s a noticeable improvement to the gameplay. Enemies are no longer there merely to soak up the bullets, plus there’s a real sense of impact. No longer do you get the impression that the bullets have a free passage through the enemy. Furthermore, pick-ups are automatically acquired simply by running over them; there’s no longer any need to press triangles to get hold of extra ammo.
Maps
These appear to be part of the design overhaul. There’s now plenty of vertical elements, making it easier to incorporate tactical combat maneuvers, plus it now runs at 60 frames per second. The beta showcased two of the expected eight maps – The Island and Madagascar City.
Weapons
While running and gunning is the mainstay of the game, the introduction of a grappling hook, means that players can clear gaps and gain a vertical advantage over their enemies. You’ll also be able to use the touchpad to bring up a four-way menu, with each quadrant housing a special item for purchase, with just two rapid button presses. There’s also a gallery of specialist weapons, from assault rifles and shotguns to the China Lake grenade launcher.
Sidekicks
There’s a sniper, a medic, and a maniacal sidekick who loves nothing better than slipping behind enemy lines to sneak up on them unawares. Once he’s got hold of them, you simply step in to deliver the final blow.
Graphics
Common opinion agrees that the graphics aren’t quite up to speed yet. After the glitzy trailers for A Thief’s End, the product doesn’t quite live up to what’s promised, particularly some of the background elements, which sometimes look flat and unrealistic.
Some minor niggles
In the beta version, when a character falls to their knees having suffered critical damage, pressing X can give you one last chance to stay alive and call for help. Well it would if it worked. Unfortunately, the characters are killed off before you have chance to press that X.
In other media
Since its release, the Uncharted game series has become increasingly popular in the media with multiple adventure themed variations. 3D games such as the 2011 success Temple Run clearly has roots in archaeological and free running gaming, while the Aztec themed slot game Golden Princess Online at Royalvegascasino.com plays on collecting jewels and rare artifacts. Some even argue that the success of the rebooted Tomb Raider game may be down to the originality and playability of Uncharted.
Furthermore, there have been rumors for some time that a film spin-off is likely. In response, the fan community has been speculating who could fill Drake’s boots on the big screen – no small feat given the franchise’s likely success from this upcoming release.
So what do we think? Overall, it looks amazing. There’s a stunning amount of detail to characters and environments, plus the standard of audio is superb. It also includes most of the original trilogy’s voice actors. In our opinion, Naughty Dog has delivered the multiplayer experience well, it gives its players great maneuverability and therefore they’re destined to have another global hit on their hands.