After countless recreations in the TV show and comic book world, Transformers is trying its luck at video games once again. Transformers: War for Cybertron looks to succeed where other Transformers games have failed. From what I have experienced it has done just that and it all begins with the story.
The story in Transformers: War for Cybertron is well constructed. The game takes place in the heart of the Autobot and Decepticon war when Optimus is just a rookie leader and Megatron decides to take over Cybertron by infusing the core of the planet with something called Dark Energon. Of course the Autobots do not want to let that happen, but they face overwhelming odds in the face of Megatron’s new powers. To see the full aspect of war, players are given the opportunity to play as both the Autobots and Decepticons in a linear structure or you can bounce back and forth between Autobot and Decepticon missions.
As far as gameplay goes everything is solid. Transformers: War for Cybertron is a third person shooter that relies on position during combat sequences. The environments are spacious and not being in the open for too long is crucial. You are usually heavily outnumbered and the “Rambo” approach may lead to a lot of damage being taken. You are not on the battlefield all alone though. Two other characters are with you at all times. Before beginning a mission there are three characters to choose from and the other two characters will be apart of your team. TWFC features drop in and out co-op that you will more than likely want to take advantage of due to the fact the A.I. controlled help is only good for distracting the enemies and pretending to help out in serious battles.
To speak a little more on the combat in War for Cybertron, the characters are able to equip two guns at a time, have sub powers, and the ability to transform at any time. Transforming from robot mode to vehicle mode is a seamless transition that takes place with the click of a button. The game has driving and flight sequences that requires extended usage of vehicle mode, but it is also great way to utilize hit and run tactics. It is not usual to be in vehicle mode during intense battle situations either. Each mode has separate ammunition and being aware of how many bullets you have left comes into account when devising plans for attack.
Besides the standard story mode, Transformers: War for Cybertron is multiplayer heaven. Multiplayer modes feature a ranking system similar in style to Call of Duty where players increased their levels allowing them access to better perks. As for the characters you play with in multiplayer, there four classes of Transformers to choose from with limited customizations in terms of design. The four classes are Leader, Scout, Scientist, and Soldier. Each class has different abilities and transformations that maybe more useful than others during certain situations. Players are given the opportunity to switch classes after dying and each class ranks up separately from the others.
There are 7 multiplayer modes to choose from. They are Deathmatch, Team Deathmatch, Power Struggle (King of the Hill), Countdown to Extinction (plant the bomb), Conquest, Code of Power (Capture the Flag), and Escalation. Escalation is the most popular of the modes. “Horde” like mode where your team faces waves and waves of enemies’ all hell bent on your destruction. Players are given the opportunity to upgrade weapons, buy health, ammo, and open up more areas of the map.
Overall, Transformers: War for Cybertron delivers a much needed gaming experience during this summer. It is a solid game with value and quality. Transformers has risen above the mediocrity of previous games and delivers an experience worth the time and money of gamers. Be sure to check out Transformers War for Cybertron if you are a fan of the series or just need a good game to play.
