Summary
- Release Year: 2006
- Genres: Shooter
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: TimeGate Studios
- Publishers: Vivendi Universal Games
F.E.A.R. Extraction Point (2006): A Bone-Chilling Expansion
Released in 2006, F.E.A.R. Extraction Point is the first standalone expansion pack for the critically acclaimed first-person shooter video game F.E.A.R.. Developed by TimeGate Studios and published by Vivendi Universal Games, Extraction Point continues the story of the original game, following the aftermath of the Armacham Technology Corporation’s collapse and the release of Alma Wade, a psychic entity responsible for the supernatural horrors that plagued the first game.
Gameplay
Extraction Point introduces several new gameplay elements to the F.E.A.R. formula, including:
- Reflex Time: This ability allows the player to slow down the game world while still aiming and reacting at normal speeds. This effect is used to simulate the player character’s superhuman reflexes, and is represented by stylized visual effects, such as bullets in flight that cause air distortion or interact with the game’s particle system.
- Door Bashing: Players can now bash open doors by using the melee function, or blast them open with explosives.
- Crate Smashing: Players can smash crates, some of which contain supplies.
In addition to these new features, Extraction Point also includes a number of improvements to the original game’s mechanics, such as:
- Improved AI: The AI in Extraction Point is more aggressive and intelligent than in the original game, providing a more challenging and rewarding combat experience.
- New weapons: Extraction Point includes a number of new weapons, such as the Stinger assault rifle, the Bulldog shotgun, and the Penetrator sniper rifle.
- New enemies: Extraction Point introduces a number of new enemy types, such as the Replica soldiers, the Berserkers, and the Creepers.
Story
Extraction Point picks up where the original F.E.A.R. left off. After the collapse of Armacham Technology Corporation, the city of Fairport is in ruins, and Alma Wade is still at large. The player takes on the role of Sergeant Michael Becket, a member of the elite F.E.A.R. team, who is tasked with tracking down Alma and putting an end to her reign of terror.
As Becket investigates the ruins of Fairport, he uncovers a dark conspiracy involving Armacham and the supernatural. He also learns more about Alma’s past and her connection to the paranormal events that have plagued the city.
Reception
F.E.A.R. Extraction Point received generally positive reviews from critics, with many praising its improved gameplay, new features, and story. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.
Legacy
F.E.A.R. Extraction Point is considered to be one of the best expansion packs ever released. It expanded upon the original game’s formula in significant ways, and its new features and improvements have been praised by critics and fans alike. Extraction Point also helped to set the stage for the release of F.E.A.R. 2: Project Origin, which was released in 2009.
Conclusion
F.E.A.R. Extraction Point is an excellent expansion pack that adds new features, improves upon the original game’s formula, and continues the story in a satisfying way. It is a must-play for fans of the series, and it is still one of the best first-person shooter expansion packs ever released.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
