The few days I spent with Frontlines: Fuel of War multiplayer beta left me with mixed feelings. On the one hand, it's an enjoyable game, with decent class balancing and a surprising level of depth. On the other hand, it's a game with an identity crisis, with concessions made to appease both the casual and hardcore set. The inviting pick-up-and-play design doesn't jive with the game's more complex elements. The pacing, however, is dynamic, and the objective-based frontline mechanic is a refreshing twist on team-based FPS gaming. And even in beta form, it's a great-looking game that manages to avoid the distinctive look of other Unreal Engine 3-powered FPS titles. The missing variable is the single-player campaign, which has to be very compelling to approach the experience delivered by contemporary big-budget shooters. If Kaos Studios and THQ can tweak the multiplayer and deliver a worthwhile solo experience, then they may well have a hit on their hands. At the very least, it appears to be a commendable return to form from a developer who nearly ceased to be just two years ago.
Trademark Unreal Engine 3.0 motion blur in action
A Phyrric victory of sorts, and the mini-map tells the true story
Explosive charges come in handy, particularly when well-hidden
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