Last year, Sony revitalized its Syphon Filter franchise with Dark Mirror for the PSP, a fantastic game. The company continues the good times with Syphon Filter: Logan's Shadow, which looks to win over players with its elaborate storyline and numerous features.
Once again, Logan and his partner, Lian Xing, attempt to save the world after a group of extremists shanghaied a new government technology. Unfortunately, a "fly in the ointment" emerges, as Logan learns that Xing may be a double agent working for the wrong side. Can he trust his partner or will he make an ultimate sacrifice for freedom? Sony drafted Greg Rucka, author of such works as Batman: Gotham Central and Queen and Country, to keep the story moving with the right dramatic tone.
Players mostly control Logan, using a combination of stealth and "run-and-gun" action to stay alive. Parts of a level require staying out of the enemy's sight, while others force Logan to subdue them in order to proceed. Most of the gameplay stays on the same level as Dark Mirror, but a few changes make Logan's Shadow feel like a true sequel.
For instance, Logan can now fire around corners using "blind fire." This means less accuracy, but it also keeps him out of harm's way, protecting his body from incoming fire. The melee system has been redesigned as well, so Logan can grab an enemy and use them as an unwilling human shield, giving him an advantage over his foes. Last but not least, the game introduces a new "interactive moment" set-up which requires players to hit buttons in a precise order to get Logan to finish tasks that otherwise couldn't be done. This includes moving items out of the way or escaping bothersome wrist restraints. Controlling Gabe feels natural, especially when it comes to such sophisticated actions as aiming and nailing someone up close with a quick melee attack.
Adding some depth to the game, Logan does a little deep-sea diving and underwater exploration here too, exploring sunken ships and occasionally fighting off enemies with the help of a bolt pistol and a spear gun. Other weapons come into play in the land-based missions, including smoke grenades, grenade launchers and, a personal favorite, sticky mines. Set one of these bad boys on the wall and watch a baddie walk right into one.
In the brief (but enjoyable) one-level demo provided by Sony, Logan's Shadow appears to contain a rock solid presentation. The animations, camera angles and level details look outstanding on the small PSP screen, right on par with Dark Mirror (and in some spots, even more improved). The full game whisks Gabe and Lian from the Indian Ocean to the heart of the Middle East, exotic locations the developers should do a nice job capturing. The music sounds first-rate thus far too, put together by composer Azam Ali (who also produced the soundtrack for Zack Snyder's comic book film 300).
Multiplayer also plays a big part in Shadow as well. Although specific details as to what to expect weren't revealed, it should be on the same plateau as Dark Mirror, if not better. Furthermore, the game contains new "buddy missions", where players work together to wrap up each mission.
Expect more Logan's Shadow details soon, including a hands-on report and the full review upon the game's September release.
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