E3 2005: Level Up
1C Launches Its Own Attack of the Clones
Company: 1C Company
Date: 05/19/2005
Avaliable On:

1C?s lineup this year has at its core a list of titles that are ?killer? games. While some would call them clones, they are in fact titles to compete with the killer apps already out there. Their strategy is to make so many games spanning so many different genres that a few are bound to be hits. Only time will tell how the public will receive these games, but there are definitely a few diamonds in the rough here.

The classic action RPG genre is being covered by Blood Magic, a fantasy game where you can dabble in a dozen different forms of magic. These different types of arcane powers can be learned in tandem with one another, or they can be specialized in. Whatever your character becomes proficient in they will begin to take the appearance of; bone magic has you looking like a skeleton, air magic has you floating on gas, fire magic renders your body into a human torch, etc.

First Person Shooters are always covered from every angle when it comes to 1C, and this year is no different. You Are Empty, an anti-utopian 1950?s Russian set game involves genetic mutation along with great graphics. Sniper puts you in the role of Vasiliy Zaytsev, the famous Russian sniper of Stalingrad in 1942. For the fantasy fans, Vivesector: The Beast Inside is sure to satisfy.

1C is even attempting an MMO called Sphere. This fantasy game takes place in Medieval Europe where a monk has found a mystical object that has turned the world upside down. Castles and towns are the only refuge for the inhabitants of this new Europe, as the countrysides are teeming with monsters.

RTS games take up a big chunk of the genre pie, and 1C has made sure to cover that area as well. Sticking with their WWII roots, they are working on Stalingrad, a game that covers the important conflicts between Germans and Russians during 1942 and 1943. The company is also expanding into the post apocalyptic arena with Desert Law, a game that combines Mad Max style warfare with comic book narration. Sci-Fi fans will get their fill with Perimeter: Emperor?s Testament, the expansion pack to last year?s unique RTS.

1C always has a long list of titles at E3. This year the list is even longer and more exciting. Whatever the outcome of any of these games, their impact is sure to make waves.

Snow Chainz aka Andrew Horwitz

GameVortex PSIllustrated TeamPS2