Summary
- Release Year: 2000
- Genres: Shooter
- Platforms: PlayStation 2
- Developers: Free Radical Design
- Publishers: Eidos Interactive
TimeSplitters: A Timeless Classic of First-Person Shooter Mayhem
Released in 2000, TimeSplitters is a first-person shooter that quickly gained a cult following for its innovative multiplayer modes, quirky characters, and over-the-top action. Developed by Free Radical Design and published by Eidos Interactive, TimeSplitters was the first game in a beloved series that spanned several sequels and spin-offs.
Gameplay: A Symphony of Shooting, Time Travel, and Explosions
TimeSplitters’ gameplay is a chaotic blend of fast-paced shooting, time travel, and explosive mayhem. Players take control of one of several quirky characters, each with their own unique abilities and weapons. The game features a wide variety of levels set across different time periods, from the Wild West to a futuristic cityscape.
The game’s single-player campaign follows the story of Sergeant Cortez, a soldier who must travel through time to stop an evil mastermind from destroying the world. Along the way, Cortez teams up with a colorful cast of characters, including a talking monkey and a samurai warrior. The campaign is filled with over-the-top action sequences, challenging puzzles, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments.
Multiplayer: Where the Mayhem Truly Begins
TimeSplitters’ multiplayer mode is where the game truly shines. Up to four players can compete in a variety of modes, including deathmatch, team deathmatch, capture the flag, and more. The game’s unique “Arcade” mode allows players to customize their matches with a wide range of options, such as the weapons available, the levels played, and even the gravity.
One of the standout features of TimeSplitters’ multiplayer is its vast array of weapons. From classic firearms like pistols and shotguns to futuristic weapons like laser rifles and rocket launchers, there’s a weapon for every playstyle. The game also features a variety of vehicles, including tanks, jeeps, and hovercrafts, which can be used to wreak havoc on the battlefield.
Level Editor: Unleashing Your Inner Game Designer
TimeSplitters also includes a robust level editor that allows players to create their own custom levels. The editor is surprisingly powerful, giving players the ability to create complex and detailed levels from a variety of pre-made tiles. Players can also customize the lighting, add items, and even create their own custom game modes.
The level editor has been a major factor in TimeSplitters’ longevity, as it has allowed the community to create countless new levels and game modes. Many of these fan-made creations are just as polished and enjoyable as the levels included in the base game.
Legacy: A Lasting Impact on the FPS Genre
TimeSplitters was a critical and commercial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, quirky humor, and excellent multiplayer mode. TimeSplitters has been cited as an influence on many subsequent FPS games, including Halo and Call of Duty.
The TimeSplitters series continued with two sequels, TimeSplitters 2 and TimeSplitters: Future Perfect. Both sequels expanded on the original game’s formula, adding new characters, weapons, and levels. The series has also been ported to a variety of platforms, including the PlayStation 2, Xbox, and GameCube.
Despite the success of the TimeSplitters series, there has not been a new mainline entry in over a decade. However, the game’s legacy continues to live on through its passionate community of fans. TimeSplitters remains a popular choice for online multiplayer matches and modding, and the game’s influence can still be seen in many modern FPS games.
Conclusion: A Timeless Classic Worth Revisiting
TimeSplitters (2000) is a timeless classic of the first-person shooter genre. Its innovative gameplay, quirky humor, and excellent multiplayer mode have made it a beloved game among fans for over two decades. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the series, TimeSplitters is a game that is well worth revisiting.
Review Score
9/10
Art
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