Resistance: Fall of Man

Like many recreational console gamers, I have been waiting for the "blue ribbon" titles like Assassin's Creed and Metal Gear Solid 4 before I went out and paid for a PS3. But I didn't want to set too high a benchmark or set of expectations for this console and bought a few less hyped titles - Resistance: Fall of Man was one of them.

To me, this game is reminiscent of themes from Aliens, Starship Troopers and 28 Days Later - it is grim, aggressive, horrific and intriguing. The story, let alone the gameplay, had me hooked. This is one for the adults, so only those 18 or over should read on.

- David B, Editor Champ Magazine

A 3D shooter type game, this title is one that heralds a new breed of menace right out of a sci-fi novel and a new breed of 3D graphics and effects that left me impressed. Published by Insomniac Games, this is another hit to add to their resume which includes the Spyro, and Ratchet and Clank franchises.

Set in an alternate Earth Universe, Resistance Fall of Man starts in the early 1950s. In this alternate reality, a strange horde of beasts nicknamed the Chimera have spread across Russia, Asia and Europe and then seek to conquer the UK as well. The UK, assisted by America, is where humanity will make its stand!

You play as Sergeant Hale, a US Ranger who joins the fight for the UK against the strange Chimera. While you are a stand out soldier, there is something else that makes you, special...The story that unfolds is intriguing, with many twists and a horrific enemy waiting for you at every turn.

Charge into the fight for the future of Earth. Joined by US Rangers or British Royal Marine Commandos, you are in good company either way. ON ON!

The action is instant and you can easily get out of the story and "world" by playing it as just another 3D shooter. Appreciate the sublime graphics and effects and the rich sound and AI. I would also get onto the official website before you play, get into the theme and the genre - you'll appreciate your escape into the game that bit more.

The weapons you start out with are tough, rugged pieces that will serve you well. While a little bland, your weaponry will build up, predictably but enjoyably you end up with some pretty cool alien kit to kick arse with. The Chimera are technologically advanced, somewhat alien and retro sci-fi. Again, go with it and don't question the realism too much. We are into gaming for the fun of it so enjoy this alternate universe someone has put allot of time and effort into.

A Chimera Hybrid about to make a meal of a US Ranger. Unlike your US and UK military friends in the game, the Chimera are formidable and regenerate - so shoot them dead, fast!

You may be asking yourself the question - the Chimera?! What the heck are they? Well, all I can say is - go with it! As the game progresses the concept and the story is more palatable. Humans altered by a mad Russian experiment or humans affected by an alien genetic code, the Chimera are semi human but certainly smart and the in-game AI is great. The Chimera will work out ways to ambush and outflank you. I was very impressed.

Our man Sgt. Hale using some of that alien / Chimeran weaponry I was telling you about. That hybrid is a moment from being a red mist.

There are online modes, a whole online community of gamers and an official forum at MyResistance.net. There are lots of people who are really into the game and the sci-fi genre - some real enthusiasts post their views and questions and help each other out with the game and a range of tournaments and competitions. I don't get much time to get into this sort of thing, but if online communities and tournaments is your thing, you will really like what is available for Resistance.

"Rockets - check, launcher - check, giant spider-like creature - check, brown jocks - check. Here goes nothing...

The game has a rich plot that takes you from a battleground to one man's destiny - to save the human race. While a little cliche in parts and a predictable storyline that takes you to an ultimate victory, this game is a classic in its genre. It hasn't achieved anything landmark or new but it sets a good benchmark for future PS3 titles, especially 3D shooters. I thoroughly enjoyed this game - I give it 3 and a half mutant nasties out of 5.

- David B, Editor, Champ Magazine.

Resistance Fall of Man is a trademark that is copyright of Insomniac Games and Sony . All pictures for this review are from Insomniac Games and Sony.

Click Here or the Ad above to go to the official Resistance: FOM online community.