It is fairly safe to say that Inferno, the latest offering from 3rd Eye Studios, is one of the more ambitious and powerful first-person shooters (FPS) available right now. It’s a game of a different sort; an ambitious stark tale of a post-apocalyptic future that makes reuniting with nature an absolute necessity. The plot of the game itself is filled with moral-driven objectives, complex characters, and a host of options to make each playthrough a unique experience to the player.
Right from the onset, players are thrust into what can best be described as a hellhole. But thankfully, this hellhole is the site of a major technological achievement called The Shell. The Shell, in a sense, is a living city – a city that encompasses the remnants of our world in a new form, divided into various districts and floors. This is where the bulk of the game takes place, leading players on an unforgettable journey through the dark depths of the city.
The Shell is a plutocracy; in other words, it is ruled by a small group of powerful people called the directors. Each director represents a different corner of the city, and are heavily guarded by their own elite forces. This powerful group of people control the lives of the general citizens, and have their own set of rules and regulations. As you progress through the game, you will begin to learn of the secrets and horrors that lay hidden underneath the surface.
Mechanically, the game is far from being perfect, yet that doesn’t stop it from being a blast to play. Combat is intense, challenging and occasionally even overwhelming. With creative enemy design, as well as a large roster of weapons and abilities, Inferno ensures that players can customize their loadout based on their playstyle. Noctis vision, a set of special abilities and power-ups, also adds another layer of gameplay to the mix.
The levels of Inferno are filled with an array of narratives, as well as intricate level design that encourages exploration and experimentation. There are also various side-objectives that can be completed, granting players access to special rewards. Additionally, there are a variety of collectible items scattered throughout the game, challenging players to scavenge around for secrets and useful items. All these features add to the overall arcade-like feel of the game.
In the end, Inferno is an enjoyable FPS that offers a unique blend of horror and action, with a number of powerful mechanics at its core. Delivering some truly well-designed levels, as well as a compelling story with plenty of narrative depth, it’s easy to see why it’s a must-play for FPS fans. All-in-all, Inferno: The Shell – Part I provides an enjoyable and unforgettable experience that shouldn’t be missed.
