Over the holidays, two games arrived on my desk for review.
One was a simple 2D game developed by three guys in the UK and the other was a mainstream game, running a 3D engine, developed on a big budget. After playing both of these games, I was surprised to find that the 2D game, Uplink, was much more enjoyable and worthwhile.
The makers of Uplink have taken the late 80’s fascination with hacking and given it a makeover.
You take on the role of a hacker, employed by a large corporation, which provides you the hardware, software, and anonymous connection to the rest of the world you need to get started. To make money in the game, you use your company’s message board to take on varying tasks, like deleting files, stealing files, and modifying individual’s personal records. Each successful job earns you money placed in your anonymous bank account, which you can use to buy new software, upgrade your hardware, etc.
Initially, you face computer systems with relatively low security, needing only to “bounce” your connection through several remote computers to delay traces, giving you time to do your work. As you become more successful, and your reputation grows, you are given more difficult tasks worth more money. With the more challenging tasks come more sophisticated security systems, requiring more advanced hardware and software.
In addition to a simple interface, the game also provides a good tutorial to get you on your way. You’ll be hacking into your first computer system within 10 minutes of starting the game.
Strangely addicting, it’s very easy to get wrapped up in this game, so don’t be surprised if you look at the clock, and it’s much later than you expected. The repetative music and drab use of the color blue throughout the game aren't very exciting. You'll get tired of both quickly.
Having played the game quite extensively, I will say that I wish there was more meat to the game. The game is not quite simple enough to be made into a web-based game and not quite complex enough to be comfortable on the shelf next to most of today’s titles. I feel if the developers pushed the game a little in either direction, it would be more appealing to the game player. Also, it’s a little frustrating when you lose, as there are no saved games, and you are forced to go through the “Agent Registration” process again, which seems unnecessary.
Ultimately, I like this game, and recommend it to those looking for something a little different.
I would like to make a final point. For a game developed and programmed by a few passionate guys in he UK, this game is excellent. If only more independent game developers would put out titles with as much quality and heart as Uplink.
Uplink is currently only available directly from Introversion. To purchase Uplink, visit their site via the link below.
