Oh Valve, how long has it been since we’ve let our fingers dance for a Team Fortress game? Nearly ten years? For the old school fans of Team Fortress Classic, Team Fortress 2 has finally arrived, and it’s about time. It has been far too long since we’ve been able to log away countless hours with Team Fortress.
For those that played the first, Team Fortress 2 will be quite familiar; for those whom haven’t ever heard this title, it’s incredibly easy to pick up. Being focused entirely around online multi-player, Team Fortress 2 has your typical modes found in online games. Whether you’re capturing the enemy’s flag, fighting to defend and capture points, or just running around aimlessly, all the modes are quick and easy to digest. However, each mode heavily relies on team-work, which is just fine for some, but this might be frustrating for those who enjoy running around solo.
Team Fortress 2 really shines through its intricate balance of classes. You are given a large variety of different classes to play with, each having their own set of advantages and disadvantages. This is perhaps one of the most incredible features in the game, since it leaves absolutely no room for one class to overrule all the others. There are different health, speed, and strength variations in each class which directly relate to the purpose of your character. Take the scout, for example. While he possesses a greater speed then every other class, he also is at risk with lighter weaponry. The heavy is slower, but he has a more powerful gun that is capable of launching wave upon wave of heavy fire. Each class has small details similar to this, meaning each one is unique and easy to pick up. However, it takes time to completely master each type.
"Team Fortress 2 really shines through its intricate balance of classes."
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What is best about the class system though, is the fact that there is something for everyone here. Perhaps you’d rather perch atop a high tower and pick off enemies below with the Sniper? Maybe you want to fire-up a blow torch and engulf your foe in flames as a Pyro? You can even disguise yourself as a member of the enemy’s team and infiltrate their base as a Spy, or sit back hammering away at turrets and health dispensers with your Engineer. All of these, and many more options are at your disposal.
It really goes without mentioning that the artwork is yet another quality that makes Team Fortress 2 so appealing. In a brilliant twist of realism and illustration, all maps and characters are extremely well designed. The characters are expressive, their personalities evident and likeable, all of this without being overbearing. In fact, each character has their own ’special move’ that really put the icing on the cake in terms of humor. Even after your eyeballs have shriveled to the size of a pinhead from staring at the screen for so long, you’ll still be amazed with the artwork and animation. Not to mention that there are large and bold signs plastered all over the walls to inform you of point locations so even the most dense of gamers can find what he or she is looking for. The sound is equally well done, particularly when it relates to the voicing of the characters. Many of the characters have a distinct accent and this helps to keep an upbeat and lighthearted feel to the game. Keeping in theme with the game’s positive feel, you are given a friendly message telling you about something good you have done that round whenever you are killed in a match. Killing with kindness indeed.
There isn’t much else to complain about with this long awaited sequel, though I would have liked to see more maps available off the bat. There are six maps waiting to be painted with cartoony blood, which is just fine for some of us, though for players who enjoy logging away more hours this can get old quick. Local multi-player is another thing that would be appreciated, for those with no internet connection, or those with connections that make any turtle seem like Speedy Gonzales. Finally, I would enjoy the Spy class having a "play dead" ability, as in the first Team Fortress, but this is such a small complaint that you probably won’t even notice it.
Overall, Team Fortress 2 is a great sequel to Team Fortress Classic. There are a few areas that could use some improvement, but if you can be a little forgiving, Team Fortress 2 is extremely well-rounded and enjoyable for new and old fans alike. Say goodbye to your social life, if you’ve got one, because once you fire up this beautiful game you will be hooked.
