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One Of 2011’s Successes: Deus Ex: Human Revolution

Ben-Dutka 16 Comments

There are a lot of games that have a chance at winning awards in 2011 and unfortunately, Deus Ex: Human Revolution might not win many.

But there's are reasons for that. It didn't set a new bar in terms of graphics, it didn't blow people away with some sort of vast technical achievement, and it had a few problems that were well-documented (i.e., the issue with the boss fights).

But above all else, Deus Ex was an excellent game the whole way 'round. It was solid throughout and one of the most entertaining and addictive role-playing experiences of the generation. The story wasn't too bad (the pacing was damn good, in fact), the gameplay was smooth and accessible, and above all else, this game stayed true to the franchise. It was exactly what fans of the series wanted; it felt like Deus Ex and played like Deus Ex , and in a generation where so many franchises have changed, this was much appreciated.

But because it doesn't have one particular element that leaps off the screen, it's in imminent danger of being forgotten. And that's too bad, because this is one project with Square Enix's name on it (yes, we know they didn't develop it) that came out nicely, and for the most part, gamers applauded the product. So in looking back at 2011, don't forget one title that did exactly what it was supposed to do.

Related Game(s): Deus Ex: Human Revolution

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PSXE Poll Update: Fall Lineup Impacts Human Revolution

Ben-Dutka 24 Comments

In some ways, Deus Ex: Human Revolution arrived at a decent time.

Firstly, it turned out to be a fantastic game. Secondly, by releasing towards the end of August, it misses the fall rush and besides, the summer was slow. People should want something great to play.

But while many said they would be purchasing Deus Ex the day it came out, even more said they were just saving up for the onslaught of AAA titles scheduled to arrive between September and November. However, that being said, we're willing to bet that many people voted on the poll before the reviews for Human Revolution dropped…when that happened, we know some of you changed your tune. 😉

This week, we highlight Dead Island , the intriguing first-person survival adventure with various gameplay elements. We'll be talking to the developers this afternoon to learn more about the production but in the meantime, what's your take on it? Already sold? Not your thing? Let us know.

Related Game(s): Deus Ex: Human Revolution

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Eidos: Deus Ex Boss Fights Scripted For The Narrative

Ben-Dutka 39 Comments

It's something not enough people understand or appreciate: the more freedom allowed, the less of a storyline focus we can have.

And because Deus Ex: Human Revolution features an in-depth plot within a freedom-based structure, many have complained about the scripted events; i.e., the boss fights. But in speaking to Edge , Eidos lead designer Frank Lapikas explains the necessity of boss encounters for the sake of the narrative. After saying it was a "narrative decision," he added:

"The whole game is story-driven so if we gave all these opportunities to get through the bosses it created some headaches for us to get the narrative to work, so we had to make that decision."

We can only imagine the headaches generated by making the game as free and customizable as it already is. Remember, it's not the existence of bosses that irritate some players, but the fact that you really can't fight them any way you wish. That would fall in line with the spirit of the game, of course, but as Lapikas says, it wouldn't fit the storyline. Personally, I found it a little irksome that I couldn't deal with the bosses stealthily, but whatever. It offered a nice change of pace for me.

The only thing that bugged me was that I had to keep at least one piece of heavy weaponry in my inventory all the time, just in case. That worked out, though, and besides, it's not necessary as the game does give you the weaponry you need during or just before boss encounters.

Related Game(s): Deus Ex: Human Revolution

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Deus Ex Clothing Line: Garments From The Fictional Future

Ben-Dutka 12 Comments

Deus Ex: Human Revolution has earned the admiration of critics everywhere.

And one of the coolest parts about this slick sci-fi adventure is the atmosphere; the futuristic style is appealing and the protagonist, Adam Jensen, looks like a bona fide bad-ass.

If you're a fan of Jensen's look, you'll want to check out a new line of clothing, courtesy of Musterbrand and Square Enix. The store isn't up quite yet but when it goes live, Jensen's trench coat will be a definite staple, and we'll also get a selection of shirts (both short- and long-sleeve), and even a pair of jeans, all inspired by Eidos and Square Enix's excellent production. Some items are actually based on the garments worn by characters in the game, while others are merely inspired by the 2048 environment in Human Revolution .

If you're into the look, you gotta check out the distinctive merchandise .

Related Game(s): Deus Ex: Human Revolution

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Final Fantasy Should Take A Cue From Human Revolution

Ben-Dutka 40 Comments

No, I don't mean Final Fantasy should adopt the sci-fi theme or the blend of first-person action and role-playing elements. I'm speaking on a bigger, more general scale.

Look, Square Enix has taken a ton of flak from long-time hardcore FF fans, and it's mostly because their beloved franchise has changed significantly. FFXIII just didn't feel like a normal progression for the exalted series, and many complained that it was closer to an action/adventure quest. And while many will attack the game's combat mechanic, lack of exploration, character design, etc., the bottom line is that most complaints stemmed from one problem: FFXIII just didn't feel like Final Fantasy .

Ask most any disappointed FF fan. All they really want is a next-gen, modernized version of the revered titles they've known and loved. Well, this is exactly what you get when you play Deus Ex: Human Revolution . Know why? Because it's Deus Ex through and through. The instant I started playing, I was reminded of all my hours with the other installments. Granted, the game can feel a little dated because of this, but not to the point where it hinders our enjoyment, and not to the point where it significantly impacts the production's quality. It's the epitome of what FF fans wish they had received: a newer, sharper, updated version of a game – or set of games – they've always adored.

So you can do it, Square Enix. Eidos made you exactly what the fans wanted. And those fans will respond; I can almost guarantee it. Maybe, just maybe this is the wake-up call S-E needed. You can't lag behind and you always have to keep pushing from a technological standpoint. You have to adapt to changing trends in the market. I understand all that. But you can do that and still retain the core structure of a franchise that made it so damn popular in the first place!

Related Game(s): Deus Ex: Human Revolution

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Deus Ex Social Trailer: Importance Of Interaction

Ben-Dutka 11 Comments

The latest Deus Ex will finally arrive in a couple of weeks, and each new piece of media is encouraging.

For instance, take this new "Social" Trailer, which focuses on the fourth aspect of gameplay; there's combat, stealth, hacking, and social, and the latter really adds another piece of depth; another role-playing element. Basically, locating and interacting with characters might change how you approach a certain situation. Maybe they'll help you out with a valuable piece of information, or assist in some other way.