The Core Design of 2001 is far different from the Core Design we knew in 2000. Once only known for their constant Tomb Raider rehashes, the development teams can now show off their talents in other areas of gaming. The latest comes in the form of a sequel to a Sega CD title, Thunderstrike: Operation Phoenix on the PlayStation 2. As expected, Eidos Interactive will handle the publishing rights for this September release, and while the surface of Thunderstrike: Operation Phoenix might make it out to be something akin to a realistic PC simulation, deep down inside, the title is all about blowing stuff up.
The day is today. A deadly wave of organized extremist terrorism strikes almost simultaneously at all principal nations. The globe’s major powers immediately issue a state of emergency, merging their weapons resources and technologies into a clandestine project entitled Operation Phoenix. You are the trained super-pilot who will take control of the most advanced Gun-Ship technology known to man. You have full freedom (3D and Logistics) in order to guarantee the success of your missions. Your objective is clear and unfaltering: ‘Liberate the world via the termination of so-considered ‘Defective’ or ‘Unstable’ Governments.’
There is much to expect from Thunderstrike: Operation Phoenix, and even if the title doesn’t pan out in the right direction (though from what we have seen, there’s no reason it should not), it will be a welcome change from the next iteration in Lara Croft’s never ending adventures. For a more detailed idea of what the game will have to offer, check out the following features list:
- Thunderstrike is a fast 3D arcade-action game based on military missions and campaigns involving ultra-realistic vehicles and environments.
- The missions vary from full scale War Campaigns to self-contained missions. A total of 7 Campaigns, each with 3-6 missions. Bonus missions are revealed after success in given Campaigns and Key Missions.
- AI systems for player as well as for friendly/enemy forces.
- Simulated AWACS (airborne warning and control system) to aid your pilot, providing tactical updates on both friendly and enemy forces.
- Your gunship is equipped with the latest in weapons technology (attack & defense) including gun-ship sniper, night vision and guided missiles.
- Gameplay requires tactical decision-making as you can call in additional levels of support in the form of infantry ground assault, tank battalions and air units such as helicopters and jet fighters.
- Steal or salvage enemy weapons and technology to upgrade the power and efficiency of your own gun-ship and support units. Upgrades include engine turbo-boosts, hellfire missiles, satellite support, shockwave bombs, mercenary troops, and much more.
- Arcade mode allows for instant pick-up and play blast-satisfaction while campaign mode will appeal to those looking to apply a deeper level of commitment.
- In multiplayer mode players can compete against one another in Deathmatch landscapes or join forces in battles against legions of advanced enemy AI.
- The passage of day to night and changing weather effects such as rain, snow, sandstorms and fog all contribute to heighten combat tension.
- Landscapes deform as you relentlessly shell targets from above.
- Vehicles and buildings show progressive damage as you annihilate them with extreme accuracy and prejudice.
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