PS3, Xbox 360, PC, Square Enix, cert: 15, out Friday 26 August
When first-person RPG Deus Ex came along in 2000, it set a new standard for video games as entertainment. The hyperbole that accompanies much of today's output – "expansive", "immersing", "emotive" – was first fully realised in its shadowy, cyberpunk world. That, for once, the praise had been deserved was demonstrated when it went on to top many "greatest games" lists.
Inevitably, then, Deus Ex: Human Revolution, a prequel to that first game and its underwhelming sequel, Deus Ex: Invisible War, has a difficult task. It must not only live up to the best parts of the franchise, but also entice new players without alienating its fanbase. It does this with aplomb.
Set in 2027, Human Revolution presents a world in which biomechanical human enhancements are commonplace. The species has split into those with and those without augmentations. Those with are addicted to a drug that stops their bodies rejecting the modifications, while those who remain fully human are either trying to acquire enhancements or are part of the Humanity Front – an organisation with suspected links to a terrorist attack on augmentation company Sarif Industries.
Assuming the role of augmented Sarif security chief Adam Jensen, players are tasked with finding those responsible for the attack. The ensuing story is a tightly wound and slow-burning sci-fi yarn in the Blade Runner tradition, with a little Dan Brown thrown in for good measure. It is told in a way that allows players either to go in guns blazing, talk their way onwards or pass through the cracks unnoticed.
The range of playing styles this offers is handled well, and alternating between them is simple thanks to an array of augmentation upgrades such as temporary invisibility or super strength, which can be earned or bought and then improved. Customisable weaponry also offers opportunity for personalisation, with lethal and non-lethal variants of the sniper rifle and pistol backed up by an impressive arsenal of sleek, near‑future equipment.
Certainly worthy of the hype, then, with the only quibbles being a frustrating mini-game that too often breaks up the main action and a difficulty curve that, even on easy, can be unforgiving. While it's unlikely that Human Evolution – or perhaps any game – will have the impact of the original Deus Ex, this is a superbly realised title and a sure contender for game of the year.
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Source: http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2011/aug/21/deus-ex-human-revolution-review
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