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Platform: PC

Developer: Digital Anvil

Publisher: Microsoft

Genre: Space Sim

ETA: Spring 2003

Freelancer

A couple of months ago, I would have sworn that Freelancer was nothing but vaporware.  Now, there’s no denying that it’s finally nearing completion so I feel I bit more confident presenting the fact sheet:

Freelancer is an epic space adventure that combines a deep storyline; the action of 3-D space-combat; the exploration of a dynamic, living universe; and trading in a rich galactic economy where the player’s decisions drive the action.

Key Features:

Open-ended universe - Gamers can select to play random missions or follow the storyline. The universe is open for exploration, and the game advances based on decisions players make.

Dynamic reputation - The players’ reputations constantly evolve as they choose their missions, make allies or enemies and succeed or fail.

Distinctive styles of play - Players can choose to act like bounty hunters, traders, pirates or explorers for different gameplay experiences.

Trading - Commodity trading turns the gears of the universe. Mining planets churn out valuable minerals while agriculture planets cultivate grain. Players must find the best trade routes in order to profit.

Compelling storyline - More than two hours of in-game cinematics plunge players into the mysteries of a vast planetary system. Character interaction will emotionally involve players in an intriguing and compelling storyline, giving them a sense of purpose.

Vibrant, rich universe - Political intrigue permeates almost every aspect of the game. Players’ decisions affect the dynamic relationships of other characters, and ultimately alter the gameplay experience.

“Simple” combat interface - The intricacies of space combat can be mastered via a simple and intuitive mouse-driven interface.

Multiplayer - Players may set up their own persistent world servers or play with gamers across the globe through Zone.com.

If you’re playing Westwood’s MMORPG, Earth & Beyond, you can be forgiven for thinking, “Rip off!”  Earth & Beyond features much of what Freelancer is promising, including the mouse-driven combat interface.  And the free-roam, do anything nature might also make you think of the Derek Smart’s Battlecruiser series.  At this point it would be easy to just write off Freelancer but I can’t for one reason: in-game cinematics.

One aspect I’ve never liked about MMORPG’s is the way it’s so easy to lose sense of any over-arching storylines since you can pretty much do anything you want.  If Digital Anvil – founded by Chris Roberts of Wing Commander fame – can deliver an interesting story no matter the path the player chooses, then it will be able separate itself from Earth & Beyond and the Battlecruiser series in my mind.  It could be Morrowind in space.

And even with the emphasis on trading and commerce, the different “classes” should offer good replay value.

Look for Freelancer in the Spring.

- Omni

(February 7, 2003)