Fracture

When the game of FRACTURE first loads, it presents a compelling story. Climate change has hurt us all. Terrain deformation technology has saved our coasts from certain doom via giant tsunamis by creating big dams and mountains to block the big waves. The midwest wasn't saved, though, and now, the USA is divided into two warring nations. In the west, Pacificans changed everyone's DNA to adapt to the climate. In the east, cybernetics saved easterners from death. But the two sides are caught in a horrible civil war.

The game presents a well-written, fascinating story. You begin the game by choosing one of three difficulty levels. After immediately being immersed in what seems to be a coming Armageddon, you're given a tutorial by your commander, a tough guy with a heart, a la other shooters like Halo. You'll do a lot in that first level of the single player campaign, including learning how to use Terrain Deformation to your advantage. You'll also learn about your radar, your weapons (including three kinds of grenades and six kinds of guns), and some cybernetic upgrades (your powerups).

It's sad to say that the big cool feature of this game, the Terrain Deformation technique, isn't all that interesting after a while. You employ it mainly to climb, to block warriors, and occasionally, to kill enemies. Plus the game has a couple of software and camera angle issues. After using Terrain Deformation, its possible to get stuck under a building ledge, even when it looks like there is room to move out. Additionally, the many buttons you use on the controller are a bit confusing. And the wireless conversations between you and the commander can be crackly and too jumbled.

There's a big, robust online aspect to Fracture which you can play with up to 12 of your pals. There are even eight minor variations on your typical online shooting games to tackle; and other nice smaller touches, like objective markers in your radar and onscreen. You won't get lost here. And the music is quite appealing. But for those who have played many games in this genre, this game is not all that unique. You might want to rent before buying this $60 game.

Available online
Genre: Third-person shooter
Released on: October 7, 2008
Price: 59.99
ESRB Rating: T for Animated Blood, Mild Language, Violence