Prototype (2009)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Prototype (2009): A Review

Introduction

Prototype is an open-world action-adventure game developed by Radical Entertainment and published by Activision. It was released in June 2009 for PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and Windows. The game follows the story of Alex Mercer, a man who wakes up in Manhattan with no memory of his past and incredible shape-shifting abilities. As Alex investigates his past and the origins of his powers, he uncovers a sinister plot involving a deadly virus and a shadowy organization known as Gentek.

Gameplay

Prototype is an open-world game that gives players the freedom to explore the island of Manhattan. Players can traverse the city by running, jumping, climbing, and gliding. Alex’s shape-shifting abilities allow him to transform his body into a variety of weapons and tools, such as blades, claws, and a whip. He can also consume enemies to absorb their powers and memories, gaining new abilities and upgrades.

The game’s combat is fast-paced and visceral. Alex can use his shape-shifting abilities to attack enemies in a variety of ways, from slicing them with his claws to impaling them with his tendrils. He can also use his environment to his advantage, throwing objects at enemies or using his tendrils to grapple onto buildings and swing around the city.

Story

Prototype’s story is a mix of science fiction, action, and mystery. Alex Mercer wakes up in Manhattan with no memory of his past and incredible shape-shifting abilities. As he investigates his past and the origins of his powers, he uncovers a sinister plot involving a deadly virus and a shadowy organization known as Gentek.

Alex’s investigation leads him to Gentek’s headquarters, where he learns that he was once a scientist working on a top-secret project called the Blacklight virus. The virus was designed to create super-soldiers, but it mutated and escaped, causing the outbreak in Manhattan.

Alex must now use his powers to stop the outbreak and defeat Gentek. Along the way, he must also confront his own past and the moral implications of his powers.

Characters

  • Alex Mercer: The protagonist of the game, Alex Mercer is a man who wakes up in Manhattan with no memory of his past and incredible shape-shifting abilities. As he investigates his past and the origins of his powers, he uncovers a sinister plot involving a deadly virus and a shadowy organization known as Gentek.
  • Elizabeth Greene: A doctor who is immune to the Blacklight virus, Elizabeth Greene is one of the few people who can help Alex stop the outbreak. She is also the key to unlocking Alex’s past and the origins of his powers.
  • Dana Mercer: Alex’s sister, Dana Mercer is a journalist who is investigating the Blacklight outbreak. She is determined to uncover the truth about Gentek and their role in the virus.
  • Roland York: A Gentek scientist, Roland York is one of the main antagonists of the game. He is responsible for creating the Blacklight virus and is determined to use it to his own ends.

Reception

Prototype received generally positive reviews from critics. The game was praised for its open-world gameplay, fast-paced combat, and interesting story. However, the game was also criticized for its repetitive missions and lack of polish.

Despite the mixed reviews, Prototype was a commercial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide. The game spawned a sequel, Prototype 2, which was released in 2012.

Legacy

Prototype is remembered as one of the most innovative and unique open-world games of its time. The game’s shape-shifting mechanics and fast-paced combat set it apart from other games in the genre. Prototype also had a significant impact on the superhero genre, proving that it was possible to create a successful superhero game that was not based on an existing comic book or movie franchise.

Conclusion

Prototype is a groundbreaking open-world action-adventure game that offers players a unique and unforgettable experience. The game’s shape-shifting mechanics, fast-paced combat, and interesting story make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Profile photo of Nish

Nish is a software engineer by day and avid gamer who loves to play video games after he puts his two boys to bed. His insights delve into the mechanics, and storytelling of the games he plays with the aim to share his passion with the audience. He loves to travel back to his native India and travel the country on his restored Royal Enfield Bullet 350, a relic from a simpler time, like some of the games he plays.

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More