Developer: Bungie

Marathon 2: Durandal (1995)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Marathon 2: Durandal: A Timeless Masterpiece of Sci-Fi FPS Gaming

Released in 1995, Marathon 2: Durandal is a groundbreaking first-person shooter (FPS) that set new standards for the genre. Developed by Bungie, the studio that would later create the Halo franchise, Marathon 2 is a sequel to the critically acclaimed Marathon, and it further refines the original’s formula with its innovative gameplay, immersive storytelling, and stunning visuals.

A Revolutionary Engine

Marathon 2’s engine was a marvel of its time, pushing the boundaries of what was possible in 3D graphics. While it shared similarities with the Doom engine, Marathon 2 introduced several key advancements. The game’s 2.5D maps allowed for more complex level design, with multiple elevation levels and interconnected spaces. The bitmap sprites used for characters and objects were highly detailed and expressive, bringing the game’s world to life.

Immersive Storytelling

Marathon 2’s narrative is a complex and engaging tale of interstellar conflict and ancient mysteries. The game unfolds through a series of computer terminals scattered throughout the levels, providing players with fragments of information that gradually piece together the story. The game’s protagonist, the security officer known as the “Player,” is tasked with uncovering the secrets of the Marathon, a mysterious alien artifact, and stopping the Pfhor, a relentless alien race bent on conquest.

Innovative Gameplay

Marathon 2 introduced several innovative gameplay features that would become staples of the FPS genre. The game’s inventory system allowed players to carry a variety of weapons, ammunition, and other items, adding an element of strategy to combat. Each weapon featured multiple fire modes, allowing players to adapt their tactics to different situations. The game also introduced allies who would aid the player in combat, providing support and firepower.

Engaging Enemies

Marathon 2’s enemies were not mere bullet sponges but rather intelligent and challenging opponents. Each enemy type had its own strengths, weaknesses, and behaviors, forcing players to adjust their strategies accordingly. The game also featured multiple enemy factions that would engage in combat with each other, adding an extra layer of complexity to the battlefield.

Legacy and Impact

Marathon 2: Durandal was a critical and commercial success, solidifying Bungie’s reputation as one of the leading developers in the FPS genre. The game’s innovative gameplay, immersive storytelling, and stunning visuals set a new standard for the industry and influenced the development of countless FPS games that followed.

In addition to its critical acclaim, Marathon 2 also had a significant impact on the gaming community. The game’s modding tools allowed players to create their own maps, weapons, and even entire campaigns, fostering a vibrant and creative community. Marathon 2’s legacy continues to live on today, with its dedicated fanbase and the availability of the game on modern platforms.

The Xbox 360 Version

In 2005, Marathon 2: Durandal was re-released on the Xbox 360 as part of the Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary package. This version of the game featured a number of enhancements, including a revised HUD, support for 4-player split-screen play, and 8-player Xbox Live gameplay. The Xbox 360 version also supported 16:9 screen resolutions, high-definition output at 60 frames per second, and upgraded models and graphics.

Conclusion

Marathon 2: Durandal is a timeless masterpiece of sci-fi FPS gaming. Its innovative gameplay, immersive storytelling, and stunning visuals set a new standard for the genre and continue to impress players today. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, Marathon 2 is an essential experience for any fan of FPS games.

Review Score

9.5/10

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Destiny: The Dark Below (2014)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 5 minutes read

Summary

Destiny: The Dark Below – A Deeper Dive into the Darkness

Released in 2014, Destiny: The Dark Below was the first expansion for the popular first-person shooter game Destiny. It introduced a wealth of new content, including story quests, missions, competitive multiplayer arenas, and a new Strike and Raid. The expansion also raised the level cap from 20 to 30, and introduced new weapons, armor, and gear.

Story

The Dark Below picks up where the original Destiny left off, with the Guardians continuing their fight against the Darkness. This time, they must venture beneath the surface of the Moon to confront a new enemy: Crota, the Hive’s Prince of Wolves. Crota and his army are preparing to invade Earth, and it’s up to the Guardians to stop them.

The expansion’s story is told through a series of new story quests and missions. These missions take the Guardians to new locations, including the Hellmouth, the summoning pits of Crota. Along the way, they will face new enemies, including the Hive’s Shriekers, Boomers, and Acolytes.

Gameplay

The Dark Below introduces a number of new gameplay features, including:

  • New story quests and missions: The expansion adds a new storyline with new characters, locations, and enemies.
  • Three new competitive multiplayer arenas: The expansion adds three new arenas to the Crucible, Destiny’s competitive multiplayer mode. These arenas are:
    • The Cauldron: A close-quarters arena set in a Hive temple.
    • The Black Garden: A medium-sized arena set in the Black Garden, a mysterious and dangerous place.
    • The Pantheon: A large-scale arena set in the ruins of a Cabal temple.
  • New Strike: The expansion adds a new Strike called “The Will of Crota.” This Strike takes the Guardians deep into the Hellmouth to confront Crota’s lieutenants.
  • New Raid: The expansion adds a new Raid called “Crota’s End.” This Raid is the most challenging activity in Destiny, and it requires a team of six Guardians to complete.

New Weapons, Armor, and Gear

The Dark Below introduces a wealth of new weapons, armor, and gear. These items can be earned by completing story quests, missions, Strikes, and Raids. Some of the new items include:

  • New weapons: The expansion adds a variety of new weapons, including new assault rifles, shotguns, sniper rifles, and rocket launchers.
  • New armor: The expansion adds new armor sets for each of the three Guardian classes: Titan, Hunter, and Warlock.
  • New gear: The expansion adds new gear items, such as new artifacts, ghosts, and sparrows.

Reception

Destiny: The Dark Below received positive reviews from critics. IGN gave the expansion a score of 8.5, saying that it “expands on Destiny’s core gameplay in meaningful ways.” GameSpot gave the expansion a score of 8, saying that it “adds a lot of new content to Destiny, and it’s all worth playing.”

The expansion was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies in its first week.

Legacy

Destiny: The Dark Below was a significant expansion for Destiny, and it helped to lay the foundation for the game’s future success. The expansion introduced a number of new features and content that kept players engaged for months to come. It also set the stage for the game’s next expansion, House of Wolves, which was released in 2015.

Conclusion

Destiny: The Dark Below is a must-play expansion for fans of Destiny. It adds a wealth of new content, including story quests, missions, competitive multiplayer arenas, and a new Strike and Raid. It also raises the level cap and introduces new weapons, armor, and gear. If you’re looking for more Destiny, then The Dark Below is definitely worth checking out.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Myth II: Soulblighter (1998)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Myth II: Soulblighter (1998)

Myth II: Soulblighter is a real-time strategy (RTS) game developed by Bungie and published by GT Interactive in 1998. It is the sequel to the 1997 game Myth: The Fallen Lords, and the second installment in the Myth series. Myth II is set in a fantasy world where the forces of Light and Dark are locked in an epic battle. The player takes control of squads or individual units in order to accomplish tactically-challenging missions.

Myth II was a critical and commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, stunning graphics, and immersive story. Myth II is considered to be one of the best RTS games ever made, and it continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world.

Gameplay

Myth II is a real-time strategy game in which the player takes control of squads or individual units in order to accomplish tactically-challenging missions. The game features a variety of unit types, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The player must use their units wisely in order to overcome the enemy’s forces.

One of the unique features of Myth II is its focus on squad-based combat. Unlike many other RTS games, Myth II does not allow the player to control individual units directly. Instead, the player must issue commands to their squads, and the squads will then carry out those commands as best they can. This system adds an extra layer of challenge to the game, as the player must carefully consider how to position their squads and issue their commands in order to achieve their objectives.

Myth II also features a variety of different mission types, which keeps the gameplay fresh and challenging. In some missions, the player must simply defeat all of the enemy units on the map. In other missions, the player must escort a convoy of units to a specific location, or capture a strategic point on the map. There are also a number of puzzle-solving missions, which require the player to use their wits in order to overcome the challenges presented to them.

Story

Myth II is set in a fantasy world where the forces of Light and Dark are locked in an epic battle. The player takes on the role of a young hero who must lead the forces of Light to victory against the evil Soulblighter.

The story of Myth II is told through a series of cutscenes and in-game dialogue. The cutscenes are beautifully rendered and do a great job of setting the mood for the game. The in-game dialogue is also well-written and helps to develop the characters and the story.

Graphics

Myth II was one of the most visually impressive games of its time. The game’s graphics were praised for their detail, realism, and beauty. The game’s environments are lush and varied, and the character models are well-animated. Myth II also features a number of impressive special effects, such as fire, water, and explosions.

Sound

The sound design in Myth II is excellent. The game’s music is stirring and epic, and the sound effects are realistic and immersive. The voice acting is also top-notch, and the characters are all voiced by talented actors.

Conclusion

Myth II: Soulblighter is a classic real-time strategy game that still holds up today. With its challenging missions, tactical combat, and epic story, it’s a must-play for fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a great RTS game to play, Myth II is definitely worth checking out.

Additional Information

  • Developer: Bungie
  • Publisher: GT Interactive
  • Release Date: November 30, 1998
  • Genre: Real-time strategy
  • Platforms: Windows, Mac OS
  • ESRB Rating: Teen

Review Score

8.5/10

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Marathon (1994)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Marathon (1994)

Marathon is a first-person shooter video game developed by Bungie and released in 1994. It was the first game in the Marathon trilogy, and is considered to be one of the most influential FPS games of all time.

Marathon is set on the colony ship UESC Marathon, which is traveling to Tau Ceti to establish a new human colony. The player takes on the role of a security officer on the Marathon, and must defend the ship from a hostile alien race known as the Pfhor.

The game features innovative level design, immersive gameplay, and a gripping story. The levels are large and complex, and feature a variety of different environments, from claustrophobic corridors to vast outdoor spaces. The gameplay is fast-paced and action-packed, and the player must use a variety of weapons and tactics to defeat the Pfhor. The story is well-written and engaging, and it keeps the player hooked from beginning to end.

Marathon was a critical and commercial success, and it helped to popularize the FPS genre. The game was praised for its innovative level design, immersive gameplay, and gripping story. It was also one of the first games to feature online multiplayer, and it helped to establish Bungie as a major force in the video game industry.

Gameplay

Marathon is a first-person shooter game in which the player takes on the role of a security officer on the colony ship UESC Marathon. The player must defend the ship from a hostile alien race known as the Pfhor.

The game features a variety of different weapons, including pistols, shotguns, machine guns, and rocket launchers. The player can also use a variety of equipment, such as jetpacks and grappling hooks.

The levels in Marathon are large and complex, and feature a variety of different environments, from claustrophobic corridors to vast outdoor spaces. The player must use a variety of tactics to navigate the levels and defeat the Pfhor, such as stealth, combat, and puzzle-solving.

Marathon also features a variety of different enemies, each with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The player must learn how to defeat each type of enemy in order to progress through the game.

Story

The story of Marathon is set in the year 2794. The colony ship UESC Marathon is traveling to Tau Ceti to establish a new human colony. However, the ship is attacked by a hostile alien race known as the Pfhor.

The player takes on the role of a security officer on the Marathon, and must defend the ship from the Pfhor. As the player progresses through the game, they learn more about the Pfhor and their motives.

The story of Marathon is well-written and engaging, and it keeps the player hooked from beginning to end. The game also features a number of memorable characters, such as Durandal, the ship’s artificial intelligence, and Leela, a human scientist who is captured by the Pfhor.

Development

Marathon was developed by Bungie, a small game development company founded in 1991. The game was developed on the Mac OS, and was one of the first games to use the Marathon engine, which was later used in Bungie’s other games, such as Halo.

Marathon was released in 1994, and was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its innovative level design, immersive gameplay, and gripping story. It was also one of the first games to feature online multiplayer, and it helped to establish Bungie as a major force in the video game industry.

Legacy

Marathon is considered to be one of the most influential FPS games of all time. The game’s innovative level design, immersive gameplay, and gripping story helped to set a new standard for the genre. Marathon also helped to popularize online multiplayer, and it paved the way for the development of other classic FPS games, such as Quake and Half-Life.

Marathon’s legacy continues to this day. The game has been ported to a variety of different platforms, and it is still enjoyed by many gamers around the world. Marathon is also a popular game among modders, and there are a number of different mods available that add new content and features to the game.

Marathon is a classic FPS game that still holds up today. The game’s innovative level design, immersive gameplay, and gripping story make it a must-play for any fan of the genre.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Halo: Reach (2010)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Halo: Reach (2010)

Introduction

Halo: Reach is a first-person shooter video game developed by Bungie and published by Microsoft Game Studios. It was released on September 14, 2010, for the Xbox 360. Halo: Reach is the fifth installment in the Halo franchise, and it is a prequel to the original Halo: Combat Evolved. The game is set on the planet Reach, a human colony world that is invaded by the Covenant, an alien alliance. The player takes control of Noble Six, a Spartan supersoldier who fights to defend Reach from the Covenant invasion.

Gameplay

Halo: Reach is a first-person shooter game that features both a single-player campaign and a multiplayer mode. The single-player campaign follows the story of Noble Six and his team of Spartans as they fight to defend Reach from the Covenant invasion. The campaign is divided into 10 missions, each of which takes place in a different location on Reach. The missions are varied in their objectives, and they feature a variety of enemies, weapons, and vehicles.

The multiplayer mode in Halo: Reach is one of the most popular and acclaimed multiplayer modes in video game history. It features a variety of game types, including deathmatch, team deathmatch, capture the flag, and assault. The multiplayer mode also features a ranking system that allows players to track their progress and compete against other players.

Setting

Halo: Reach is set on the planet Reach, a human colony world that is located in the Epsilon Eridani system. Reach is a lush and verdant planet, with a variety of biomes, including forests, mountains, and deserts. The planet is home to a large human population, and it is a major center of military and scientific research.

The Covenant invasion of Reach begins in 2552, and it quickly overwhelms the planet’s defenses. The Spartans are the only force that is able to stand against the Covenant, and they fight a desperate battle to defend Reach.

Characters

The player character in Halo: Reach is Noble Six, a Spartan supersoldier. Noble Six is a member of Noble Team, a team of Spartans who are tasked with defending Reach from the Covenant invasion. The other members of Noble Team are:

  • Carter-A259: The leader of Noble Team.
  • Kat-B320: A sniper and recon specialist.
  • Jorge-052: A heavy weapons specialist.
  • Emile-A239: A close-quarters combat specialist.
  • Jun-A266: A demolition specialist.

Story

The story of Halo: Reach begins with the Covenant invasion of the planet Reach. The Spartans of Noble Team are deployed to defend the planet, and they quickly become embroiled in a desperate battle against the Covenant. As the Covenant forces grow stronger, the Spartans are forced to retreat to a series of fallback positions.

Eventually, the Spartans are forced to make a last stand at the Pillar of Autumn, a UNSC ship that is carrying the AI Cortana. The Spartans successfully defend the Pillar of Autumn, and Cortana is able to escape Reach. However, the Spartans are killed in the battle, and Reach falls to the Covenant.

Reception

Halo: Reach was released to critical acclaim. The game was praised for its graphics, gameplay, and story. It was also a commercial success, selling over 9 million copies worldwide. Halo: Reach is considered to be one of the best first-person shooter games of all time.

Legacy

Halo: Reach had a significant impact on the Halo franchise. The game introduced new characters, weapons, and vehicles to the franchise, and it helped to expand the Halo universe. Halo: Reach also helped to set the stage for the events of Halo: Combat Evolved.

Halo: Reach is still played by millions of people around the world. The game’s multiplayer mode is particularly popular, and it is considered to be one of the best multiplayer experiences in gaming history. Halo: Reach is a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by fans of the Halo franchise and first-person shooter games in general.

Review Score

9.5/10

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Halo: Combat Evolved (2001)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 7 minutes read

Summary

Halo: Combat Evolved (2001)

Introduction

Halo: Combat Evolved is a first-person shooter video game developed by Bungie Studios and published by Microsoft Game Studios. It was released on November 15, 2001, as a launch title for the Xbox video game console. Halo: Combat Evolved is the first installment in the Halo franchise, and it has since been ported to Windows, Mac OS X, and Xbox 360.

The game is set in the 26th century, and follows the story of Master Chief, a Spartan super-soldier, and his artificial intelligence companion, Cortana. The two are stranded on the alien ringworld Halo, and must fight their way through hordes of Covenant aliens in order to stop them from activating the ring, which would destroy all life in the galaxy.

Halo: Combat Evolved was a critical and commercial success, selling over 5 million copies worldwide. It is widely considered to be one of the greatest video games of all time, and it is credited with popularizing the Xbox console.

Gameplay

Halo: Combat Evolved is a first-person shooter game that features both single-player and multiplayer modes. The single-player campaign follows Master Chief as he fights his way through Halo, battling Covenant aliens and uncovering the secrets of the ringworld. The multiplayer mode allows up to 16 players to compete in a variety of game types, including deathmatch, team deathmatch, and capture the flag.

Halo: Combat Evolved’s gameplay is characterized by its fast-paced action, tight controls, and innovative use of vehicles and weapons. The game’s weapons are varied and powerful, and each one has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. Players must carefully choose their weapons and tactics in order to succeed in combat.

In addition to its core shooting gameplay, Halo: Combat Evolved also features a number of puzzle-solving elements. Players must often use their wits to overcome obstacles and progress through the game. These puzzles help to add variety to the gameplay and keep players engaged.

Setting

Halo: Combat Evolved is set in the 26th century, in a distant part of the galaxy. The game’s universe is rich and detailed, and it features a variety of alien races, planets, and technologies.

The game’s main setting is the ringworld Halo, a massive artificial construct that is home to a variety of alien life forms. Halo is a mysterious and dangerous place, and it is the key to the Covenant’s plans to destroy all life in the galaxy.

Story

Halo: Combat Evolved tells the story of Master Chief, a Spartan super-soldier, and his artificial intelligence companion, Cortana. The two are stranded on Halo after their ship is destroyed by the Covenant. Master Chief and Cortana must fight their way through the ringworld, battling Covenant aliens and uncovering the secrets of Halo.

As they progress through the game, Master Chief and Cortana learn that the Covenant are planning to activate Halo, which would destroy all life in the galaxy. Master Chief and Cortana must stop the Covenant at all costs, and they must also uncover the truth about Halo and its creators.

Characters

Halo: Combat Evolved features a cast of memorable and iconic characters. The game’s protagonist is Master Chief, a Spartan super-soldier who is the last hope for humanity. Master Chief is a skilled and experienced warrior, and he is equipped with a variety of powerful weapons and abilities.

Cortana is Master Chief’s artificial intelligence companion. She is a brilliant and resourceful AI, and she provides Master Chief with valuable assistance throughout the game. Cortana is also a loyal friend, and she is always there to help Master Chief when he needs her.

The Covenant are the game’s main antagonists. They are a powerful alliance of alien races who are bent on destroying all life in the galaxy. The Covenant are technologically advanced, and they possess a variety of powerful weapons and vehicles.

Graphics

Halo: Combat Evolved’s graphics were groundbreaking for their time. The game’s environments are detailed and immersive, and the character models are realistic and expressive. The game’s lighting and special effects are also top-notch, and they help to create a sense of atmosphere and realism.

Sound

Halo: Combat Evolved’s sound design is excellent. The game’s music is stirring and epic, and it helps to set the mood for the game’s action-packed gameplay. The game’s sound effects are also realistic and immersive, and they help to bring the game’s world to life.

Legacy

Halo: Combat Evolved is a landmark video game that has had a profound impact on the industry. The game’s innovative gameplay, stunning graphics, and epic story have made it one of the most popular and critically acclaimed video games of all time. Halo: Combat Evolved has also spawned a successful franchise that includes sequels, spin-offs, and merchandise.

Halo: Combat Evolved is a classic video game that is still enjoyed by millions of players around the world. The game’s legacy is secure, and it will continue to be remembered as one of the greatest video games of all time.

Review Score

9.5/10

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