Arlingtonian writers review two of the biggest video games from 2017: “Fortnite” and “Assassin’s Creed: Origins”
By Zach Backiewicz, ’19
Immediately after its release in September 2017, Fortnite became a hit amongst gamers, jumping to the top of the charts in terms of popularity. Developed by Epic Games and People Can Fly, this has been the company’s most successful game to date. Fortnite features two different gameplay modes, “Save the World” and “Battle Royale.” Even though both game modes have been highly rated, the “Battle Royale” mode has been extremely popular as it is free to play on the XBox One, PS4, Window, and MacOS.
The “Battle Royale” mode supports up to 100 players, either individuals or up to four-man squads, attempting to be the last man or team standing as they hunt other players and avoid being killed themselves. Players start in a floating bus, hovering over the map until they jump and skydive towards their desired location. Once the players have landed, they roam the map looking for weapons, shield potions, resources and a variety of other materials to help them be the last standing individual, duo or squad.
Although players of all ages and genders have found this game appealing, a large amount of its audience seems to be high school and college-aged individuals. The developers of “Fortnite: Battle Royale” have been able to maintain the attention of their users by continuing to add new weapons, cities and special edition game modes.
Recently on Jan. 18, a new update was released featuring a new and improved map, consisting of around eight new locations for players to drop. This update was highly anticipated among all players of the game, as it would lead to a variety of new opportunities and adventures within the gameplay.
“Fortnite: Battle Royale” has reinvented the video gaming world, bringing back the sense of teamwork that has been desired.
By Matthew Shepherd, ’19
Ubisoft’s “Assassin’s Creed” series has morphed into a staple of both the company and video games as a whole, having released ten games in the past 11 years. That being the case, both fans and critics of the series were shocked by Ubisoft’s 2016 announcement that there would not be a new release for 2017.
“We also are stepping back and re-examining the Assassin’s Creed franchise,” Ubisoft stated. “We’ve learned a lot based on [the fans’] feedback.”
Ubisoft used this year off to better examine where the series, which had progressively gotten worse critical and player reactions since “Assassin’s Creed III,” had gone wrong and how they could fix it. And, long story short, this year off allowed Ubisoft to reclaim the glory that Assassin’s Creed once held.
First, the setting is nothing short of spectacular, both in terms of time and location. The idea to set it in 49 B.C.E., a period of turmoil and war for Egypt, Greece, and Rome allowed for well-woven and intriguing plot hooks. It made the fantastical story of the Assassins feel more grounded in reality, including factual events under the direct control of players. Furthermore, exploring the gigantic pyramids, decrepit tombs, and vibrant cities feel exciting and interesting, revitalizing an essential aspect to the series’ survival.
In addition, the story is complex and heartfelt, much more than anyone could have expected from a game with “Assassin” in the title. It twists and turns as the protagonist, Bayek, attempts to avenge the murder of his son and rescue the dying nation of Egypt. In the game, players are able to meet characters and historical figures ranging from Bayek’s childhood friends to former emperor of Rome Julius Caesar.
“Assassin’s Creed: Origins” has revitalized fans’ love of the series, making it a must-play game.