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Preview: Stephen Tyler
ALTHOUGH it is the basis for most forms of entertainment, the trend for art to imitate life has never been quite as readily apparent in video games.
While films have historically recreated real-world situations and music has its feet firmly grounded in reality, console titles have relied on the implausible adventures of the likes of Mario and Sonic the Hedgehog.
The same is true for war games. Early outings saw players single-handedly taking on entire enemy battalions in Vietnam, the Soviet Union and elsewhere. Fun? Undoubtedly. Realistic? Perhaps not.
But with technology now able to provide eye-popping graphics and amazing sound, developers are starting to bring a more life-like approach to combat titles.
The change in focus began 11 years ago when Electronic Arts released the first Medal of Honor title. Set in the Second World War, the series has gone on to place players on the front lines of the conflict’s European, Asian and African theatres.
It was a winning formula, but EA has taken note of Call of Duty’s successful shift into modern operations and decided that the latest Medal of Honor, due out in October, will unfold in the here-and-now.
“Medal of Honor is an authentic look into today’s war,” explained Greg Goodrich, the game’s executive producer. “Inspired by real people and real events, the game puts players in the boots of today’s warrior.”
The highly-anticipated shooter will shun the beaches of Normandy for the surroundings of Afghanistan in 2001.
As with previous titles – and as successfully done by Call of Duty – gamers will take charge of a series of characters tasked with undertaking missions in the war-torn country.
As well as placing players in the boots of regular United States Army infantry soldiers, Medal of Honor’s latest incarnation delves into the secretive world of the Tier One Operator – a shadowy elite warrior who conducts his business well under the radar.
“When we first set out to reinvent Medal of Honor, we wanted to stay true to its roots of authenticity and respect for the soldier but bring it into today’s war,” added Goodrich.
“The Tier One Operator is the most disciplined, deliberate and prepared warrior on the battlefield.
“He is a living, breathing precision instrument of war. We are honoured to have the rare opportunity to work closely with these men to create a game that shares their experience.”
Teaser trailers from EA suggest that the game will certainly look the part. Afghanistan’s mud-walled compounds, mountain ranges and urban areas have been faithfully reproduced to provide a varied theatre of combat.
The obligatory multiplayer option looks highly promising and it will be a true test of Medal of Honor’s credentials whether it can provide the same addictive experience – and finely-tuned learning curve – found in the most recent Call of Duty titles.
Vehicles including gunships, helicopters and quad bikes add an extra layer of gameplay to the mix as EA looks to steal a march on its rivals in the ultra-realistic battle game stakes.
“EA has always been an advocate for telling the soldiers’ story. The new Medal of Honor follows that tradition,” said Sean Decker, general manager of Electronic Arts Los Angeles.
“It promises to be an unforgettable entry in the modern shooter genre.”
