Summary
- Release Year: 2000
- Genres: Shooter
- Platforms: Dreamcast, Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 2
- Developers: Loki Software, Pipe Dream Interactive, Raven Software, Runecraft
- Publishers: Activision, Codemasters, Crave Entertainment, Loki Software, Majesco Entertainment
Soldier of Fortune (2000): A Post-Mortem
Introduction
Soldier of Fortune, released in 2000, was a groundbreaking first-person shooter (FPS) that pushed the boundaries of the genre in terms of graphics, gameplay, and storytelling. Developed by Raven Software and published by Activision, Soldier of Fortune quickly became a critical and commercial success, spawning several sequels and spin-offs.
Story
Soldier of Fortune follows the story of John Mullins, a mercenary working for a U.S.-based organization known only as “The Shop.” Mullins and his partner, Aaron “Hawk” Parsons, are tasked with preventing nuclear weapons from falling into the wrong hands and stopping a terrorist organization known as the “Phoenix Group.”
The story of Soldier of Fortune is told through a series of cutscenes and in-game dialogue. The cutscenes are well-produced and feature strong voice acting, and they do a good job of setting up the story and introducing the characters. The in-game dialogue is also well-written and helps to flesh out the characters and their motivations.
Gameplay
Soldier of Fortune’s gameplay is fast-paced and action-packed. The player takes control of John Mullins and must fight his way through hordes of enemies using a variety of weapons, including assault rifles, shotguns, sniper rifles, and explosives.
One of the things that sets Soldier of Fortune apart from other FPS games of its time is its focus on realism. The game features a realistic damage model that sees enemies react realistically to being shot. For example, if an enemy is shot in the leg, they will limp and slow down. If they are shot in the head, they will die instantly.
Soldier of Fortune also features a number of innovative gameplay mechanics, such as the ability to use bullet time to slow down time and get a better shot at enemies. The game also features a variety of environmental hazards, such as fire, gas, and electricity, that can be used to kill enemies or solve puzzles.
Graphics
Soldier of Fortune was one of the first FPS games to use the Quake III Arena engine, and it shows. The game’s graphics are stunning, with detailed textures, realistic lighting, and fluid animations. The game’s environments are also very well-designed, and they offer a variety of different challenges for the player.
Sound
The sound design in Soldier of Fortune is top-notch. The game’s sound effects are realistic and immersive, and the music is suitably epic and atmospheric. The voice acting is also excellent, and it helps to bring the characters to life.
Overall
Soldier of Fortune is a classic FPS that still holds up today. The game’s story is engaging, the graphics are great, and the gameplay is solid. If you’re a fan of FPS games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Soldier of Fortune.
Legacy
Soldier of Fortune was a critical and commercial success, and it spawned several sequels and spin-offs. The game’s success helped to popularize the use of realistic graphics and gameplay mechanics in FPS games. Soldier of Fortune is also credited with helping to inspire the creation of the popular Call of Duty franchise.
Controversy
Soldier of Fortune was a controversial game upon its release. The game’s realistic violence was criticized by some, who felt that it was too graphic and gratuitous. However, the game’s developers defended the violence, arguing that it was necessary to create a realistic and immersive experience.
Conclusion
Soldier of Fortune is a landmark FPS that helped to define the genre. The game’s realistic graphics, innovative gameplay mechanics, and engaging story still hold up today. If you’re a fan of FPS games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Soldier of Fortune.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
