Format: PS3, Xbox 360
Release Date: February 28, 2012
Publisher: SEGA
Developer: SEGA
Price: $59.99
ESRB Rating: M
Ever since I played the demo for Binary Domain a couple of weeks ago, I knew that I had to give the full game a shot. It has been receiving a lot of flak from a lot of other reviewers for many different reasons, the biggest being lack of originality. Although, that has never been a bad thing. The Uncharted series was never original, but it seems to be doing just fine.
Presentation/Story:
Binary Domain takes place in the 2080 version of Tokyo, and humanoid robots are being produced at rapid speeds. Apparently, Dan Marshall(or YOU), doesn't like it. You and your team are sent to infiltrate Amada, and to stop the production of the human like robots. If you've seen I, Robot, then you'll know this story inside and out. Visually, the game looks great. It looks fairly similarly to another SEGA game, Vanquish. It runs just as smooth as Vanquish, and it actually looks slightly sharper than it too. The framerate does take dips when a barrage of bullets and rockets are constantly flying over your head. With action ramping up often, this can hinder the overall presentation of the game. I was able to deal with it, but I can see how some gamers can have a problem with it. Voice acting is solid, with all your typical stereotypes coming in to play. The soundtrack is okay, its nothing to get worked up about. Gun effects packs a big punch when you're ripping through dozens of scrap metal, which rounds out the presentation perfectly.
Core Gameplay/Multiplayer:
When you first get your assault rifle, you will feel right at home. Binary Domain controls extremely tight, and you will be able to cut through countless robots. The enemy types are one of the reasons I'm so drawn to this release, shooting robots is pretty cool and exhilarating. You'll see metal flying off there exoskeletons as hot lead pierces their armor. Action is never dull in the game, you will traverse many scenarios with tons of enemy encounters. Two standout gameplay features include gimmicky voice commands, which actually makes you feel more like a commander. It mostly boils down to saying yes or no, when a teammate asks you permission to pull off a certain maneuver during battle. Saying yes or no will affect your relationship with that corresponding partner. You will need to show appreciation of them in order for them to obey you. You frequently turn them down and they will ignore you during the heat of battle.
There is a minor cause and effect consequence system, where choices you make will affect the story. This is only a small effect, the outcome of the story is pretty locked in. There is multiplayer in the game, with your standard deathmatches and co-op style horde mode. Its okay, it adds a few more hours to the 10 hour campaign.
Final Thoughts:
Don't expect Binary Domain to reinvent the wheel of third person shooters, it is SEGA by the way. Mowing down countless robots is a blast, and the surprisingly long campaign is welcomed with open arms. If you enjoyed Vanquish, you will definitely have fun with Binary Domain.
Final Score = 7.75/10 Email: sameo452009@gmail.com Twitter: @iSamKulii Apps: S&S Reviews on Apple and Android Stores PSNID:sameo452008