GDC: Shadowrun pits PC against Xbox 360
- March 07, 2007 00:45 AM PST
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FPS fans finally get their chance to settle it: keyboard and mouse versus controller.
Microsoft says Shadowrun, its version of the RPG and pen and paper classic by FASA, is on track for release in late 2007, sort of--no specific date is available at this time. But what is clear is that this version will veer from its lineage to mimic Counter-Strike in many ways, including being a multiplayer FPS with no single player campaign. Moreover, Xbox 360 and PC gamers will be able to engage in joint gunfights for the first time.
After loading Shadowrun, PC owners (via Windows Vista) will be able to connect to Xbox Live and access all of its functions. If you're already a Live Gold member you sign in with your existing gamertag and Passport account. The interface will be exactly the same as you'd see with the Xbox 360. All the regular functionality such as voicechat, gamerscores, and messaging will be available. Players will not be able to tell who's on a PC and who's on an Xbox 360.
At the GDC demo, Microsoft reps were quick to point out that "Shadowrun is not bringing Xbox Live to Windows, but instead expanding Xbox Live to include Windows." But no announcements regarding other games that will receive similar treatment are forthcoming, yet.
Shadowrun's mystically-charged universe is set in on a future Earth where magic has reappeared and two warring factions, the Lineage and the R.N.A. Corporation, are pitted in mortal combat to control it. There will be four character classes--Human, Elf, Troll, and Dwarf--each with its own strengths and limitations. Depending on the map, 16- , 12-, or 8- players will play at a time. All the maps are set in various environments in Brazil. In addition to energy and projectile weapons, players will be able to power up magic abilities. Depending on your character class you'll be able to perform such feats as flying, spell casting, warping, and seeing through objects.
Shadowrun should fan the fires of feuding FPS gamers, who are polarized into keyboard/mouse or control pad camps...but don't worry, PC gamers, you can always connect a 360 controller to your USB ports.
