MAG (formerly Massive Action Game) is probably one of the worse and shallow named games ever, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a surprisingly deep game. I’m not sure if I’ll end up doing a review on this game, but I just wanted to give some of my impressions of the game so far.
First of all, let me begin by saying I had no intention of getting this game. I had no interest in it at all. I never looked into trying the beta, and have never been a big fan of online multiplayer (especially in FPS). So why the heck am I playing MAG like a mad man all of the sudden? Hell, I don’t even fully understand it but that is why I wanted to write about it.
MAG may look like a normal FPS, but it feels so different to me than other FPS games. I have no problem with playing the single-player aspects of the more twitchy FPS games. However, I was never compelled to go online in those games. Knowing how they are usually filled with obnoxious and loud kids was one of the main reasons I didn’t care to dive into them. They seemed to attract people I would never really want to interact with. So jumping into an online only game like MAG seemed like it would be a total nightmare, but that is not the case at all.
A few days before the release of MAG I started getting really interested in the game. Like I said before, I don’t even know why my interest was peaked. Maybe it was some of the videos I started seeing, maybe it was the leveling up system I started reading about, and then there was the teamwork aspect of the game.. I guess it was a lovely combination of all these things. So on a whim I decided to go ahead and pick the game up. Taking my first real dive into the world of online multiplayer, and I am so glad I did.
Since I got MAG I haven’t put another game in my PS3. It starts off a little rough, but quickly grew on me. You will die often when you first start playing, especially if you aren’t familiar with the maps, the game itself, and online shooters. I am primarily an RPG guy, so this was pretty much all new territory for me. Luckily, they start you off on smaller maps and a team deathmatch mode. This allows you to get familiar with game’s controls, guns, and the overall feel. After you gain some levels and skill points you can start crafting your character. I picked up some medic skills as it seemed like they are always needed and can really help your team. I also picked up a couple upgrades to my guns, which made a huge difference in how I could play with them. These skills really started to make my character play how I wanted to play. This leveling system is great and has me really involved in it like an RPG would.
I’ve started playing the larger game modes now. It is just amazingly fun and addictive. I’ll sign on to play just a few matches and then realize hours have passed. Like I’ve said, I am not a huge FPS fan but MAG has a different feel and these little hooks that have me thoroughly enjoying it.
I guess the main difference in the gameplay that is resonating with me is how it is more tactical than your average FPS. Playing as a team makes a huge difference. You don’t need a mic, but if you have one it would be a good thing. Although as long as your leader and a few others have mics you should be fine. This way they can call out enemies, objectives, plans, and when they need a medic or mechanic. Holding down a specific spot with a team feels great, like you are really contributing to a team and a larger cause. You can’t just run around the vast maps trying to take down squads on your own. This will pretty much guarantee a quick death.
If you are a little hesitant about the game due to its size, or because you are a “noob” like me, I’d say don’t fret about it. You should really consider giving this game a shot. I’d think MAG is a must own for all FPS fans. For people like me who primarily grew up on RPGs, action games, platformers, and other single-player games should also give MAG a much closer look. Like me, you could easily become entrenched in deep and tactical FPS that will scratch your RPG itch as well.
