E3: Uncharted 2: Among Thieves (PS3) Preview
Posted by Justin Engelmann on 06.05.2009
The beta is alive.
For all of you that purchased the game InFamous or Qore a multiplayer beta for the upcoming Uncharted 2: Among Thieves was included. The sequel to Uncharted: Drake's Fortune, this game seems to be very promising. As one of the hit early titles for the PS3, Uncharted became extremely popular. Among Thieves looks to follow that trend as the addition of multiplayer was certainly not an afterthought. We have our first impression of the multiplayer beta here.
As fans of the first game know, Uncharted is strongly cover based. Flipping through pieces of cover is the safest way to succeed on the battlefield. To amplify this, the maps for the beta are littered with many pieces of cover to keep the action interesting. Every game has its share of Rambos, but they won't make a difference here. As is in most multiplayer games, flanking is a strong strategy here. With the ability to blind fire, suppressing fire becomes a necessity in a firefight
There are currently three modes available. The two competitive modes are Deathmatch and Plunder, while the sole cooperative mode involves completing objectives together. Deathmatch is exactly what you'd expect. Plunder involves capturing objectives.
The action feels very much like Gears of War with a vertical element. Every kill nets you cash (basically exp) and cash helps you increase your level. Powerful weapons are strategically placed throughout the map. The player can choose certain character models to use in-game. From what I saw, one team has SWAT-like players which are villians and the other chooses from main characters in the story which are heroes. Another neat addition is a perk like system that can increase certain aspects of your game.
The maps of the beta are quite impressive. My personal favorite, The Plaza, is a night map that is filled with stone buildings and a tower in the middle. Another map that I got to try was The Village, which looks like a Chinese shanty town. There are quite a few chokepoints and plenty sniping posts, but each map offers an exciting match. My only problem was the spawn system. Even when you are holding out one side of a map, enemies began spawning behind you.
Even more impressive are the weapons. Although there are only a few, they are very fun to use. From what I saw there is an AK-47, M4, FAL, Sniper Rifle, Desert Eagle, Gatling Gun, and a regular pistol. Also, players can pick up propane tanks to create makeshift bombs. Also have riot shields for supressing enemy fire. These weapons create great firefights and no matter which one you use, you will enjoy it.Overall, the beta is very fun and promises a strong multiplayer mode in the final version of Among Thieves. One of my favorite things about the beta is an option visible on the menu: Cinema. The byline reads: Watch a recorded game. Does this mean a Halo 3-like file share and video editor system? Only time will tell. And to pass that time, I recommend finding a way to experience this great game.
