This is another entry for the "Under the Radar Video" series. "Psi Ops" is truly a unique game as the kind of games you don't see and play every day, which makes it a shame that this is game is criminally underrated because there was potential for a franchise; but the even bigger shame is that we don't have enough games that tackle the psychic thriller genre as it's rarely touched upon. It also shows how the Stealth Action genre still has plenty to offer.
I really like the story in the game, it feels like this game could have been another sequel to the "Scanners" movie franchise. Or you can even say a season of the TV series "Agents of S. H. I. E. L. D." as this feels like a story right up their ally. I wouldn't say the plotline is anything new but it's really in its unique approach along with its twisty (in a good way) development that really keep your intrigue up and wonder what's next.
Graphical presentation is solid from the backgrounds to the character models, along with the music which is also solid and fits the game well. But of course, what really powers this game is in the gameplay which is just top notch as it successfully replicates psychic phenomena which adds to the stealth action. Your character can fight basically with the fist a cuff and the generic guns that you can use, but of course we're all in for psychic abilities which don't disappoint.
Having psychic abilities is great as it's a break from the norm and cliche weapons you would commonly use it action games. Like in a lot of action RPG games you start off small with one ability telekinesis, but then as you go further you gain some other abilities like two of my favorites are being able to drain out your enemies lifeforce and making their heads explode. But my absolute favorite is in the soul possession of your enemies which is so cool and, in a way, probably one of the ideal methods for espionage. As you possess your enemies you can pass them by and access what you need but also, you'll be able to assassinate your unsuspecting enemies and when you're done with using the enemy's body you can dispose of them and come back to your body. That part is cool in a dark sense as you can find creative disposal methods without worrying in the world.
However, you must use your power sparingly because you have an energy gauge. This can be refilled from certain special drugs but also the energy drain method, but it takes time to do it and you don't want to be caught when it's on zero so don't waste your power and be tactical. There are some puzzles in the game on the medium side that add to the intrigue but also good head exercise. But I really like the boss fights which are different as you can say there like Scanner battles. What's interesting about these fights are that you don't just do power on power clashing, but you must be tactical, as each of them have different methodologies you must find ways in counterattacking and taking them down.
The only drawback to the game is that it's just a bit short, I wouldn't have minded if the campaign was a little longer. Though that could be said about a lot of other games, despite the ride being short it's still a sweet ride all the same. And good for any fan of the Stealth action genre that feels like something a little light but not too light.
For anyone who's a fan of the Stealth Action genre and looking for something different, this under the radar vintage classic is worth putting your mind to.
Rating: 3 and a half stars.
I really like the story in the game, it feels like this game could have been another sequel to the "Scanners" movie franchise. Or you can even say a season of the TV series "Agents of S. H. I. E. L. D." as this feels like a story right up their ally. I wouldn't say the plotline is anything new but it's really in its unique approach along with its twisty (in a good way) development that really keep your intrigue up and wonder what's next.
Graphical presentation is solid from the backgrounds to the character models, along with the music which is also solid and fits the game well. But of course, what really powers this game is in the gameplay which is just top notch as it successfully replicates psychic phenomena which adds to the stealth action. Your character can fight basically with the fist a cuff and the generic guns that you can use, but of course we're all in for psychic abilities which don't disappoint.
Having psychic abilities is great as it's a break from the norm and cliche weapons you would commonly use it action games. Like in a lot of action RPG games you start off small with one ability telekinesis, but then as you go further you gain some other abilities like two of my favorites are being able to drain out your enemies lifeforce and making their heads explode. But my absolute favorite is in the soul possession of your enemies which is so cool and, in a way, probably one of the ideal methods for espionage. As you possess your enemies you can pass them by and access what you need but also, you'll be able to assassinate your unsuspecting enemies and when you're done with using the enemy's body you can dispose of them and come back to your body. That part is cool in a dark sense as you can find creative disposal methods without worrying in the world.
However, you must use your power sparingly because you have an energy gauge. This can be refilled from certain special drugs but also the energy drain method, but it takes time to do it and you don't want to be caught when it's on zero so don't waste your power and be tactical. There are some puzzles in the game on the medium side that add to the intrigue but also good head exercise. But I really like the boss fights which are different as you can say there like Scanner battles. What's interesting about these fights are that you don't just do power on power clashing, but you must be tactical, as each of them have different methodologies you must find ways in counterattacking and taking them down.
The only drawback to the game is that it's just a bit short, I wouldn't have minded if the campaign was a little longer. Though that could be said about a lot of other games, despite the ride being short it's still a sweet ride all the same. And good for any fan of the Stealth action genre that feels like something a little light but not too light.
For anyone who's a fan of the Stealth Action genre and looking for something different, this under the radar vintage classic is worth putting your mind to.
Rating: 3 and a half stars.