Summary

• Release Year: 2000
• Genres: Adventure, Puzzle, Shooter, Strategy
• Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
• Developers: Shiny Entertainment
• Publishers: Interplay

Messiah (2000): A Divine Shooter with Unparalleled Freedom

Released in 2000, Messiah is a first-person shooter (FPS) game that stands out from the crowd with its unique gameplay mechanic: possession. Players take control of Bob, an angel tasked by God to cleanse a future Earth corrupted by sin and evil. Bob possesses the ability to leap into the bodies of any person, animal, or genetically engineered creature, giving him a wide range of abilities and strategic options.

Gameplay

Messiah’s gameplay is characterized by its open-ended nature. Players are given a set of objectives, but how they achieve them is entirely up to them. This freedom extends to the game’s combat, which can be approached in a variety of ways. Players can choose to engage in direct firefights, use stealth to take down enemies silently, or possess animals to gain unique advantages.

The possession mechanic is what truly sets Messiah apart from other FPS games. Bob can possess any living being, including humans, animals, and even genetically engineered monsters. Each possessed entity has its own unique abilities and weaknesses, which players must learn to master in order to progress through the game.

For example, possessing a human allows Bob to use weapons and interact with the environment, while possessing an animal grants him enhanced senses and agility. Possessing a monster, on the other hand, gives Bob powerful attacks and abilities, but also makes him more vulnerable to damage.

The game’s levels are designed to accommodate this open-ended gameplay. They are large and sprawling, with multiple paths and secrets to discover. Players are encouraged to explore and experiment, as there is often more than one way to complete a given objective.

Story

Messiah’s story is set in a dark and futuristic world where Earth has been ravaged by war and pollution. The player takes on the role of Bob, an angel sent by God to cleanse the world of its sins. Bob is a complex and enigmatic character, with a mysterious past and a wry sense of humor.

As Bob progresses through the game, he encounters a cast of characters who help and hinder him on his quest. There are allies, such as the enigmatic Dr. Janice Polito, who provides Bob with information and support. There are also enemies, such as the evil Dr. Malek, who seeks to use Bob’s powers for his own gain.

The story of Messiah is told through a series of cutscenes and in-game dialogue. The writing is sharp and witty, and the characters are well-developed and memorable.

Graphics and Sound

Messiah’s graphics were cutting-edge for their time. The game uses a modified version of the Unreal Engine, which allows for detailed and realistic environments. The character models are also well-animated, and the game’s special effects are impressive.

The sound design in Messiah is also top-notch. The game’s soundtrack is a mix of orchestral and electronic music, and it perfectly captures the game’s dark and futuristic atmosphere. The voice acting is also excellent, with each character having a unique and believable voice.

Reception

Messiah was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, its well-written story, and its impressive graphics and sound. Messiah was also nominated for several awards, including Game of the Year.

In the years since its release, Messiah has become a cult classic. The game’s unique gameplay and dark atmosphere have attracted a dedicated following of fans. Messiah is considered to be one of the most innovative and influential FPS games of all time.

Conclusion

Messiah is a truly unique and unforgettable FPS game. Its open-ended gameplay, well-written story, and impressive graphics and sound make it a must-play for fans of the genre. Whether you’re a seasoned FPS veteran or a newcomer to the genre, Messiah is sure to provide you with a challenging and rewarding experience.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

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