Four years following the release of one of the most successful titles to date for the PC, Crysis has now found its way to the Xbox and PlayStation 3 consoles. Crysis can now be purchased online through Xbox Live and the PlayStation Network, where players can relive the moments experienced from playing the PC version of Crysis through television screens. The nearly seamless gameplay and revival of the game’s best aspects show itself well throughout; overall, making Crysis as one of the best games for the console.
Since Crysis for the PS3 and Xbox 360 are ported versions of the original, the storyline remains the same. Taking the role of a U.S. Delta Force operator codenamed “Nomad”, the players must find their way to survive an onslaught of enemy Korean infantry invading a group of islands near the East Phillippines. Soon after arriving on the island you discover an alien-like structure whose power, if in the wrong hands, can destroy the entire world. Nomad is equipped with the Nanosuit, which can be used to the player’s advantage and assist him or her in surviving an onslaught that lies ahead; both human and alien.
The player has the ability to make use of all three of the Nanosuit’s capabilities throughout the game: armor mode, stealth/cloak mode, and speed. Each of these capabilities can be used strategically when dealing with enemy forces, whether it be attempting to evade an enemy, or infiltrating bases. However, the Nanosuit does consume energy. The amount depleted and the rate of drainage depends on how much damage the suit receives and the level of impact. Once completely drained, the player’s health will also drain, and would need to take cover until one of the other restores. Nevertheless, this adds to the fun of the entire gaming experience.
The player is also able to carry multiple weapons within their arsenal. This includes sniper rifles, cannons, assault rifles, grenades, pistols, and even alien weapons such as the MOAC, which shoots out ice-like shards at high velocities. All of the vehicles from the PC version are also available such as pickup trucks, tanks, motorboats, and light military hovercraft.
The player will also be able to make use of the HUD on Nomad’s facemask. The HUD provides a small map where the player can track nearby enemies and friendlies. It also displays the current energy levels, weapons selected, a binocular that can be used for tactical purposes, and night vision. Nomad also has the ability to use his Nanosuit to jump extra long distances by holding the Jump button on the controller. The player will also be able to customize their selected weapon, whether it be adding a laser scope, a silencer, or change the rate of fire.
The controls are simple to adapt within minutes. Even new players will be able to get used to the control mechanics, as they are placed well enough without getting the player confused. As well, the game instructs the player on which buttons to press when you need to crouch, lift objects, or shoot an enemy as you progress.
Though a majority of the PS3 adaptation retains what the PC version has, the only difference between them is the removal of the multiplayer mode in the console version; leaving only the Campaign mode. Though it would add more fun by being able to play against other players online and put the Nanosuit to its full potential, the single-player campaign does not fail to surprise.
One of the major key components of Crysis on the PS3 is the usage of graphics. The stunning display of detail harboured by Crytek’s new game engine CryEngine 3 definitely conveys its brilliance and pushes forward the franchise in terms of graphics. The power conveyed by its predecessor, CryEngine 2, on the PC version shows a remarkable contrast with CryEngine 3 for the console version. This is possibly one of the best visually appealing games on the console to date alongside its PC counterpart, even though it was developed four years ago. Regardless, it is a great feat.
The dialogue and voice acting are excellent, giving the game a realistic edge and believability. This is particularly the case with the enemy Korean soldiers who speaks their native language throughout parts of the game, adding more authenticity and realism. The audio soundtrack is also excellent and goes well with the action-packed sequences and gameplay.
Undeniably, the idea of porting Crysis to the consoles is a great step. Players who are especially fans of first person shooters will find this a real treat, as Crysis is filled with action-packed sequences and non-stop gameplay. This is particularly the case when one actually has the ability to either sprint at an extremely fast speed to evade incoming enemies or use the armour and cloak modes to blast your way through enemy territory and sneak past them, making this an effective modern combat/sci-fi shooter. The ability to use alien weapons is also fun. The MOAC particularly, shoots out shards at high speeds and gives the player an edge against an enemy.
I was definitely impressed of how well the ported version had turned out. Though the multiplayer portion was taken out, it didn’t seem to take away the overall effectiveness and addiction of the game. What stood out the most, as mentioned previously, is the graphics and the gameplay. Just being able to infiltrate enemies with the capabilities of the Nanosuit makes the player almost invincible.
With the recent release of Crysis 2, it proves well enough that the Crysis franchise will never fade.
