S takes first-person action games to a new level with greater adversaries and more realistic surroundings and controls. Set in a series of futuristic combat arenas, the game pits players against a rogues' gallery of the dregs of society, as well as complex hunter drones and targeting turrets.
The story begins with a rather long introduction sequence. Players receive a message from an old friend, the kind of message that means the friend is already dead and needs players to carry out some good old-fashioned revenge. To that end players are invited to take part in a no-holds-barred, fight-to the-death tournament.
XS is mainly a first-person combat simulator with some between-mission segments to re-arm and recover. During the pre-battle stages, players can review their score cards and change weapons. They can also look over profiles of the competition.
In the combat mode, the action takes place in one of 20 arenas with three computer-controlled opponents per match. The opposition includes a mix of human, robotic and alien characters with names like Hammer Down Harding, Lee Harvey and The Vamp. The setting varies from underground tunnels and tight catacombs to spacious lofts and open foyers, all with an overall dark and foreboding look and feel.
In addition to the normal competition mode, the game allows for a grudge mode, where players are allowed to pit their wits against specific opponents in one area. The game also allows for network play where eight friends can blast at each other in any of the 20 arenas, and the game can be augmented to include additional computer controlled competitors.
It's pretty real, for a fight to the death
What makes XS stand apart from similar first person games is the unique control system that allows players to move and collect items with the keyboard while using the mouse for targeting and shooting. This interface allows for more realistic movement and even lets players move side to side while firing. Players can also crouch, lie flat, throw grenades, shoot at targets both below and above, jump, and even exchange weapons with dead opponents. In the easy setting players also get a radar view of the action and can track their opposition's movement. The controls take some getting used to, but they make the action more intense.
The graphics are among the best of the genre and the dark corridors and shadows help make the game even more surreal. The introduction and cut scenes are limited but witty, while the sound is extremely intense and has a genuine combat roar. Players can hear distant gun shots and screams that warn of impending danger, and the sounds echo and rise in volume as the action gets closer. The game also provides a warning indicator that signals approaching competitors. With rich, detailed graphics, enhanced controls and blasting sounds, XS is gaming to the excess and is sure to be the next link in the chain of shooter evolution.
