New IP Alert - Alpha Protocol

2009 is almost upon us. I am absolutely amazed at just how many great games were released during 2008 and it frightens me to think that 2009 could be an even bigger year for games. I already have about 8 games in my mind that I know will be picking up in the first half of 2009. Going over this list though made me realize just how many of those games are sequels or using pre-existing IP's. At this rate 2009 could be the year of the sequel but seeing a game like Alpha Protocol come along, gives me hope of seeing some truly promising IP's. Obsidian Entertainment, the studio responsible for KoToR II, is hard at work on a new espionage RPG title that seems to be an intriguing combination of Mass Effect and James Bond. Correct me if I'm wrong, but that seems awesome.

Obsidian Entertainment has extensive experience working with Bioware as a result of developing Knights of the Old Republic 2 which gives me great confidence in their ability to develop a quality action RPG. With influences like Mass Effect driving the development of Alpha Protocol, it is easy to understand my optimism and excitement. Mass Effect was easily one of my favorite games of 2007 and with no clear date set for the inevitable sequel, a game with similar structure set in a completely different universe is enough to catch my attention.
The game tells the story of Michael Thorton, a government agent who is abandoned by his superiors in the midst of a mission and is forced to use his "Alpha Protocol" as a guide to help him thwart a vast conspiracy. The premise of the story is something I find very interesting because it is reminiscent of some of the best action movies in existence today. To experience this kind of story with extensive dialogue trees and loads of RPG elements could prove to be a fresh gaming experience similar to experiences like Mirror's Edge. RPG elements are used to improve various weapons and melee combat skills which in theory, gives players the ability to choose their experience. Like other games in the genre, the developer claims to give players the choice of running and gunning or using stealth to achieve their objectives. While this concept is certainly nothing new, giving players the ability to use charisma and other skills to find alternative paths to the ultimate destination is something that could add variety to the game play and reduce the threat of repetition. If the game can prove to be a memorable and lengthy experience with solid game play, Alpha Protocol could be a great new IP in 2009.

There has not been a lot of details revealed yet but as the game approaches its February release, I will continue to bring my thoughts and impressions.

-Nick