The Army of Two video game series is an action-packed, cooperative shooter that has gained a dedicated following since its debut. This tactical third-person shooter, developed by EA Montreal, offers a unique gameplay experience centered around the dynamic relationship between two soldiers.
The PlayStation 3 (PS3) version of Army of Two was released in 2008, marking the franchise's entry into the next-generation console market. The game's focus on cooperative gameplay and its intense, tactical combat made it a standout title for the PS3's early years.
Gameplay and Story
The core of Army of Two lies in its cooperative gameplay, where players take on the roles of Elliot Salem and Tyson Rios, two former Special Forces operatives turned private contractors. The game’s narrative follows their journey as they navigate through various missions, encountering intense firefights, moral dilemmas, and the occasional touch of humor.
The gameplay mechanics encourage players to work together seamlessly. From executing tactical maneuvers like Aggressor and Breacher roles to utilizing the innovative Overkill system, which allows players to temporarily boost their offensive capabilities, the game emphasizes teamwork and strategic thinking.
One of the standout features is the moral choice system, where players' decisions during missions can influence the game's outcome and the relationship between the two protagonists. These choices add an extra layer of depth to the gameplay, encouraging multiple playthroughs to explore different paths.
Key Gameplay Elements
- Tactical Cover System: Players can utilize various objects for cover, allowing for strategic positioning and flanking maneuvers.
- Weapons Customization: A wide array of weapons and attachments are available, offering players the ability to tailor their loadouts to their preferred playstyle.
- Cooperative Challenges: The game includes a range of challenges that encourage players to work together, testing their coordination and skill.
- Online Multiplayer: The PS3 version supports online multiplayer, allowing players to team up with friends or find partners through matchmaking.
Visuals and Audio
The PS3 version of Army of Two boasts impressive visuals, showcasing the console’s capabilities with detailed character models, realistic environments, and dynamic lighting effects. The game’s art style is distinct, blending a gritty, militaristic aesthetic with a touch of stylistic flair.
The audio design is equally impressive, with a powerful soundtrack that intensifies the action sequences and a well-crafted sound effects system that brings the weaponry and combat to life. The voice acting, particularly from the two protagonists, adds to the game's immersive nature, capturing the camaraderie and banter between Salem and Rios.
Technical Specifications
| Platform | PlayStation 3 |
|---|---|
| Developer | EA Montreal |
| Publisher | Electronic Arts |
| Release Date | March 2008 |
| Genre | Third-Person Shooter, Action |
| Mode | Single-player, Multiplayer |
Legacy and Sequels
The success of the first Army of Two led to the development of two sequels: Army of Two: The 40th Day and Army of Two: The Devil’s Cartel. While these sequels expanded on the cooperative gameplay and introduced new features, they received mixed reviews, with critics noting a shift in tone and a departure from the original’s tactical focus.
Despite the mixed reception of the sequels, the Army of Two franchise left a lasting impact on the gaming industry, popularizing the concept of cooperative, tactical shooters and influencing future games in the genre.
Sequels and Spin-offs
- Army of Two: The 40th Day (2010): Set in a fictionalized version of Shanghai, this sequel introduced new weapons, gadgets, and a more urban warfare-focused narrative.
- Army of Two: The Devil’s Cartel (2013): Developed by Visceral Games, this installment took the series in a new direction, featuring a more action-oriented approach and a focus on the Mexican drug war.
Critical Reception and Impact
Upon its release, Army of Two for PS3 received generally positive reviews from critics and players alike. The game’s innovative cooperative gameplay, intense action, and focus on teamwork were praised, with many highlighting the dynamic between Salem and Rios as a standout feature.
The game's impact on the industry was significant, with its cooperative gameplay mechanics influencing future titles and setting a new standard for tactical shooters. The franchise's focus on player cooperation and strategic decision-making left a lasting legacy, inspiring similar mechanics in other games.
Awards and Recognition
- Nominated for “Best Action Game” at the 2008 Spike Video Game Awards.
- Recipient of the “Best Online Multiplayer Game” award at the 2008 GamePro Awards.
- Featured in various “Best Cooperative Games” lists by gaming publications.
Can I play Army of Two with a friend on the same console?
+Yes, the PS3 version of Army of Two supports local cooperative gameplay, allowing two players to team up on the same console.
Are there any downloadable content (DLC) packs for Army of Two on PS3?
+Yes, there were several DLC packs released for Army of Two on PS3, including new maps, weapons, and additional challenges. These DLCs expanded the gameplay experience and offered new opportunities for cooperative play.
What is the Overkill system in Army of Two?
+The Overkill system is a unique feature in Army of Two that allows players to enter a temporary state of enhanced combat abilities. During Overkill, players can deal increased damage, have improved accuracy, and even slow down time, providing a strategic advantage in intense firefights.
