Summary
- Release Year: 2016
- Genres: Adventure, Role-playing game (RPG), Shooter, Strategy, Tactical
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One
- Developers: Massive Entertainment
Tom Clancy’s The Division: A Detailed Review
Introduction
Released in 2016, Tom Clancy’s The Division is a third-person action role-playing game developed by Ubisoft Massive and published by Ubisoft. Set in a post-apocalyptic New York City ravaged by a deadly virus, the game follows a group of sleeper agents known as “The Division” as they attempt to restore order and investigate the origins of the outbreak.
Gameplay
The Division is an open-world game with a heavy focus on cooperative multiplayer. Players can team up with up to three other players to complete missions, explore the Dark Zone, and fight enemy factions. The game features a variety of weapons, skills, and gadgets that players can use to customize their characters and playstyles.
One of the unique features of The Division is its Dark Zone. This is a special area of the game world where players can find rare loot and engage in PvP combat. However, the Dark Zone is also a dangerous place, and players must be careful not to get killed by other players or by the powerful enemies that roam the area.
Story
The story of The Division begins on Black Friday, when a deadly virus is released in New York City. The virus quickly spreads, causing widespread chaos and panic. In the aftermath of the outbreak, a group of sleeper agents known as “The Division” is activated. These agents are tasked with restoring order and investigating the origins of the virus.
As the agents investigate, they uncover a conspiracy that goes far beyond the virus outbreak. They learn that a powerful criminal organization is behind the attack, and that the virus is just part of a larger plan to destabilize the United States.
The agents must race against time to stop the criminal organization and save New York City. Along the way, they will face powerful enemies, make difficult choices, and uncover the truth about the virus outbreak.
Characters
The Division features a cast of memorable characters, each with their own unique backstory and motivations. The player character is a customizable agent who can be male or female. Other notable characters include:
- Agent Faye Lau: A skilled field agent who is the leader of The Division.
- Agent Aaron Keener: A rogue agent who betrays The Division and becomes the game’s main antagonist.
- Dr. Jessica Kandel: A virologist who is working to develop a cure for the virus.
- Paul Rhodes: The mayor of New York City, who is struggling to maintain order in the aftermath of the outbreak.
Reception
The Division received generally positive reviews from critics. The game was praised for its detailed open world, its engaging gameplay, and its strong story. However, some critics found the game to be repetitive and grindy.
Despite the mixed reviews, The Division was a commercial success. The game sold over 10 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling games of 2016.
Legacy
The Division has had a lasting impact on the video game industry. The game’s open world, its cooperative gameplay, and its dark and gritty setting have all been influential in the development of other games. The Division has also spawned a number of spin-offs and expansions, including Tom Clancy’s The Division 2 (2019) and Tom Clancy’s The Division: Heartland (2023).
Conclusion
Tom Clancy’s The Division is a well-made and engaging action RPG that offers a unique and immersive experience. The game’s detailed open world, its cooperative gameplay, and its strong story make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
Review Score
8.5/10