We're in the slow moving months after Christmas, when all the big software companies are planning their summer titles. Where does that leave us now? Slim pickings. I have had the chance to get a little more involved with my Sony Playstation; playing Syphon Filter and catching the big news.
Big news; that's what I said. Sony has announced the Playstation 2, along with all the usual technical jargon. What it boils down to is a system that should be better than the Dreamcast, the mighty Sega platform that should hit North America on 9/9/1999. Another interesting feature is what software these companies are using for development. The Sega Dreamcast uses a special version of Windows CE, the operating system used on those small handheld devices. The Sony Playstation 2 will use Linux as the development platform. What's Linux you ask? It's an operating system developed by a student that started a revolution. Check out www.linux.org for full details. I'm starting to get my feet wet with Linux, but it's pretty advanced and not for the squeamish. Keep an eye out for more information in this ongoing battle.
Syphon Filter is a new game from 989 Studios. It's a third person action game; the same viewpoint as Tomb Raider, that just behind and to the right kind of camera angle. There's the usual story of terrorism and doing the John Wayne thing; few games set a story that could stand on it's own. But as a game player, you're probably concerned with more pressing matters like graphics, sound and playability. I must say that this game shines in those areas, and more. The movement is fluid, graphics rich and detailed. I enjoyed running around eliminating the bad seed from the streets, with my variety of weapons and tool. A solid effort from 989 Studios. Please keep in mind that I'm gauging this as a Playstation title: I think it's a solid effort compared to other console titles. This game doesn't stand up to Half-Life or Shogo, and it shouldn't have to. Check out www.989studios.com and see for yourself.
by Scott VanderPloeg
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