Review: Prototype 2 – Overpowered Gameplay for Everyone
“Just ‘cause you can kill something doesn’t mean that you should.” – James Heller, telling a lie.
So here we are at the edge of destruction. An apocalyptic world cursed by the Mercer virus. The protagonist, James Heller – a church going brute, is hell bent on revenge and the man he seeks vengeance from is the original protagonist from the first title – Alex Mercer.
I want to start off by commenting on the fact that this release has very significant undertones to Infamous 2, a good title with a very similar open world which can be explored and destroyed at your leisure. Certain side missions are so similar, such as chasing objects on rooftops across the city before the time runs out, that I sometimes forget that the two games are mutually exclusive (fancy term = free lunch from editor).
Other ‘irks’ include the fact that the graphics could be better, the fact that there should be more than 10 AI free-world character designs and the fact that, again, this game has similar traits to that of the Infamous series.
I could harp on the last point, but that would be unfair as it is evident that this game has a winning formula. An open world environment with an over-powered character coupled with the ability to evolve with ALL SORTS of upgrades. These upgrades are attached to your locomotion, offensive capabilities and defensive aspects, senses/hunting, disguise and any other mutations acquired.
The mutations developed throughout the game are not only exciting to unlock but of epic proportions when used. I will not explain and over-emphasize every aspect of Heller’s powers but I will say that mutations include claws that make wolverine look like a kitten, rocks for hands that make Hulk seem cute and a whipfist which probably belongs in the Red Light District. All powers stem from transformations as a result of these mutations. Power corrupts, absolutely.
In terms of fluidity you are in for a treat. Prototype has gotten it just right as it is so quick to change between using Heller’s different powers or mere “mortal” military equipment (like guns or RPGs). Running, jumping and gliding across the 3 zones is so simple and once mastered such movement can be used in order to make Heller a very mobile super-weapon. Tanks and helicopters are also at your mercy as it’s possible to hijack, destroy and even steal their weapons. The fact that you cannot hide behind structures keeps such fluidity and forces you to man up and fight or chicken out and run. As if that is not enough, it is possible to pick up almost anything and launch it into any unlucky passer-by.
Heller is able to “consume” others thereby gaining their form, a little bit of life (a lot if upgraded) and access to any restricted areas if the correct individual is absorbed. When Blackwatch (the meanies) are alerted as to you or any of your offences, they will shoot. I promise. It is then possible to fight your way out of trouble or hide and shape shift to lose the tail.
Missions come in all the usual shapes and sizes as expected of such a title including the usual ‘collecting’ missions where you are forced to explore the cities. This further helps you learn how to utilise the movement of Heller. By completing side and main missions, evolution of your mutations takes place quicker. This is a major aspect of what makes this game such a blast. A constant need to become more insanely over-powered will keep most hooked until the end. It will also ensure that most will complete many side missions – something not all gamers are keen on.
In conclusion, the game is lacking in certain areas but as a whole it is pure fun, pure chaos and definitely worth a play.
Prototype 2 Rating: 7/10
