In the realm of multiplayer gaming, few experiences can rival the unique thrill of playing as a VIP. Reflecting on my inaugural encounter with Team Fortress Classic’s VIP mode, known as The Hunted, brings back a wave of nostalgia. I vividly recall spawning into my first match, only to find myself equipped with an umbrella instead of a weapon. I was the VIP! The exhilaration was palpable, yet so was the trepidation.
In this mode, one player assumed the role of the Civilian, the 10th class, dressed in a business suit and devoid of any firearms. The objective was clear: while the rest of the team rallied to protect the Civilian, a squad of snipers from the opposing team aimed to eliminate him. The gameplay was a delightful blend of strategy and chaos, requiring seamless teamwork to navigate from one safe zone to another. Each match was a rollercoaster of close calls and unexpected disasters, setting it apart from the more conventional deathmatch or capture-the-flag formats.
Despite the joy that the VIP mode brought, it has largely faded from the landscape of modern multiplayer shooters. Counter-Strike 1.6 featured a similar mode called Assassination, but it never transitioned into CS:GO or CS: Source, leaving fans to seek out mods for a taste of that gameplay. Halo 3 introduced Escort, where the VIP was armed, while Titanfall offered a “Marked for Death” mode with simultaneous targets for both teams. Recently, there have been whispers of a revival of the VIP concept in Team Fortress 2 through the Workshop, igniting hope among enthusiasts.
Reviving the VIP Experience
As I ponder the scarcity of VIP modes over the last couple of decades, it’s refreshing to see the concept making a resurgence in Among Us 3D’s latest update. The Critical Cargo event is currently live and will continue until October 2, providing players with an opportunity to engage in this thrilling gameplay once again.
While the gaming landscape has evolved, the essence of the VIP experience remains a cherished memory for many. As developers explore new ways to incorporate such modes, one can only hope that the excitement of protecting a civilian or navigating perilous maps will continue to find its place in the hearts of gamers everywhere.
