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Set within the merciless frozen tundra of a hostile planet, humans struggle for survival as conflicts arise between man, the surrounding indigenous creatures and the monstrous beings that have invaded. With a gripping single player campaign and numerous multiplayer modes, Lost Planet for Xbox 360 delivers an intense cinematic gameplay experience.
In Lost Planet, human snow pirates navigate VS (Vital Suits) through hostile ice-covered environments, fighting against the indigenous Akrid creatures for the precious thermal energy they need to survive. For one such pilot named Wayne, death almost seemed imminent until he was fortunately rescued. However, he can only remember a few fragments of his past including the slaying of his father by the monstrous beings. Yet under the veil of ice, a devious plan has been set into motion by the Neo Venus Construction Corporation (NEVEC) who plans to sterilise the world of all Akrid and snow pirates alike. What really happened to Wayne? Who is behind NEVEC and why are they plotting this destructive scheme that could potentially annihilate human kind? Encounter valuable allies and dangerous enemies on Waynes search for the truth.
Taking full advantage of Xbox 360s unprecedented power, Lost Planet contains an unrivalled level of detail as advanced light sourcing is used to ensure a realistic presentation. Enormous world maps unfold as players battle the menacing creatures during blistering weather conditions throughout vast snow fields and deserted cities on foot or with armed vehicles. Fostering a real-time loading system, players can expect a seamless experience that leaves them completely immersed. Multiplayer modes add to the value of Lost Planet by allowing gamers to partake in intense team battles via Xbox Live online game service.
Like Halo you can have only two weapons at a time and use a recharging shield. This though is powered by an always decreasing supply of thermal energy, topped up from defeated enemies. Apart from this the only other piece of gadgetry you have to help you is a grappling hook, although it remains largely underused in the single player campaign. The various mechs you can commandeer are a great deal of fun though, with different variants being able to jump, hover or transform into vehicles. Graphically the game is excellent, with some awesomely large Starship Troopers style bugs and possibly the best explosions ever in gaming.
Where the game gets into trouble is the brevity of the single player campaign. Although this is compensated by the online multiplayer mode, even that cannot overcome the game’s innate simplicity. Complexity, or even longevity, is not what this game is about though and in terms of offering plenty of big dumb fun it succeeds admirably.
HARRISON DENT
