MAG review

MAG- PS3 Review

Presentation:

MAG (or Massive Action Game.  But MAG sounds better) is an online only first person shooter developed by Zipper, the guys known for the SOCOM franchise on the PS2.  The game thrusts you into a real-time global war as one of three factions.  Raven, SVER or Valor.  Each faction operates differently and has it’s own unique load out.  There isn’t much of a story past this due to the online only nature.  Rest assured though, MAG still is worth your cash. 

The war (dubbed the Shadow War) changes with each match the players complete.  Each win is recorded and you are presented with the numbers of who is currently “winning” the Shadow War. 

The matches themselves are what set MAG apart.  Up to 256 players can compete at the same time.  This is the largest number of players possible to play in the same match on the PS3 yet.  And it runs without a problem. 

8/10

 

Graphics:

As one might expect, for such huge battles the graphics are not exactly Uncharted 2: Among Thieves quality.  However, they do their job, and the game does look very good.  Textures are, for the most part, acceptable, and there are no problems such as screen tearing. 

8/10

 

Sound:

MAG has exceptional sound design.  The huge battles are accompanied with bullets zipping across the speaker channels.  Explosions pack a decent exceptional punch.  The Voice acting in the menus is good as well.  Valor’s menu is the most rough around the edges, with it’s gruff drill sergeant, but it still works. 

The only problem that I have is that some of the guns sound underpowered.  It’s a minor complaint, but it’s noticeable after many hours of play. 

8.5/10

 

Gameplay:

MAG plays like every other first person shooter out there in terms of controls.  It most resembles Battlefield in terms of play style.  Team work is a necessity.  As you rank up you unlock skill points that unlock new upgrades and bonuses for your character.  At rank 15 out of 60 you unlock the ability to become a squad leader.  As a squad leader, you control where your squad attacks, give out assignments and carry bonuses into battle.  After enough wins you unlock the ability to become a Platoon Leader and Officer in Charge. 

At rank 60, you are recruited to one of the two other factions, which let’s you switch up your play style. 

9/10

 

Lasting Value

MAG will last you a while if you try to go for every medal.  The only problem is that at the time of this review, there are not that many maps, and only four game modes.  With the promise of add on content, this is a null point. 

9/10

 

Overall:

MAG is another excellent entry into the Playstation 3’s exclusive library.  If you have some spare cash and time for a time sink multiplayer game pick it up. 

8.5/10