DESCRIPTION

Project Origin is more action oriented than the original F.E.A.R. Tight interior spaces bring back the tension of the first game, while large outdoor levels and mech suit combat aim directly for fast-paced, heart-pounding battle. However, as in the original F.E.A.R., a central feature in Project Origin is the ability to use the main character's enhanced reflexes to effectively slow time, for a "bullet-time"-like effect in combat and other action events. Another game feature is interactive environments that allow players to move and alter obstacles in order to clear a path or create cover, adding to the tactical possibilities for both sides in the fight. Throughout single-player adventure, scripted sequences, and dynamic combat put forth a stream of violent, fast-paced first-person shooter action, punctuated with a mix of sniping, exploration, puzzle solving, and story development.

Project Origin players follow the mission of Delta Force Sergeant Michael Becket and his crew, as they move to secure Genevieve Aristide, president of the technology company Armacham. Aristide's counter-advised continuation of the Origin Project, which seeks to tap into the vast psychic powers of the girl Alma Wade, must be stopped. Alma's body may be destroyed, but aspects of her tortured soul live on — in the twisted aberrations that prowl the cloning laboratories, and throughout the doom and destruction that will lay an entire cityscape to waste. The game begins 30 minutes before the end of the original F.E.A.R., allowing players to view the first game's final events from Becket's perspective and then continue on in the aftermath.

As may be expected, the Project Origin sequel boasts larger maps, more weapons, and smarter enemies than featured in the original F.E.A.R. game, and developer Monolith promises a continuation of the storyline with the integrity of the original — ignoring parallel plotlines and side events in TimeGate's Extraction Point and Perseus Mandate expansion packs. In addition to the solo campaign, as many as 16 virtually enhanced players can try to put the F.E.A.R. into one another online, in a selection of deathmatch, capture-the-flag, conquest, and other team-style multiplayer competitions. ~ T.J. Deci, All Game Guide