In the heart of Los Angeles, a relatively unknown studio named That’s No Moon is quietly making waves in the gaming industry. Established during the pandemic-driven surge in video game development, this studio has been operating under the radar, with backing from the South Korean publisher Smilegate. While Smilegate is recognized for its free-to-play shooters and MMOs, the leadership at That’s No Moon boasts impressive credentials from their time at Naughty Dog, where they contributed to iconic titles like Uncharted and The Last of Us.
What emerges from this unusual partnership is an intriguing debut game titled Crossfire. Interestingly, it shares its name with Smilegate’s long-standing first-person shooter, often dubbed “Korean Counter-Strike.” However, this iteration diverges significantly from its predecessor; it is not a competitive FPS or multiplayer experience, but rather a single-player, third-person tactical shooter that embraces a “stealth-forward” approach.
Game Mechanics and Features
The protagonist, voiced by Claudia Doumit, known for her roles in The Boys and the Modern Warfare reboot, navigates a world that blends cinematic storytelling with the systemic intricacies of military simulations. Players can expect high lethality, limited healing options, and manual magazine reloading, all contributing to a rich gameplay experience.
During intense firefights, players will find themselves engaged in loud, scrappy encounters. The character, Minkoff, fires in controlled bursts, as full-auto recoil presents a challenge at longer distances. Notably, the game introduces a unique on-screen reticle that projects the sights of the current weapon in a first-person perspective, enhancing the player’s connection to their firearm—a feature often overlooked in third-person shooters.
As Minkoff stealthily eliminates enemies, he engages with a modular inventory system reminiscent of Escape From Tarkov, allowing for detailed management of gear and ammunition. The game encourages players to loot bodies and manage their resources carefully, adding layers of strategy to the gameplay.
While many mechanics may not be groundbreaking individually, the context in which they exist is what sets Crossfire apart. Unlike typical battle royales or extraction shooters, this game offers a linear, narrative-driven campaign, reminiscent of the recent Ghost Recon series, though with a more pronounced focus on simulation.
Minkoff envisions Crossfire as a bridge between the niche world of military simulations and a more accessible action game. The adaptive cover system, a standout feature, allows players to utilize various forms of cover dynamically, adjusting their character’s stance based on the environment. This innovation draws inspiration from real-life military tactics, enabling players to engage with the game world in a more immersive manner.
Throughout the development process, Minkoff and his team aimed to create a game that balances accessibility with the challenge and tactical freedom characteristic of lighter military simulations. He expressed a desire for players to quickly grasp the controls while still facing meaningful challenges, ensuring a rewarding experience.
As Minkoff shared insights into the game’s development, he reflected on the evolution of level design, moving away from the traditional waist-high walls that have defined the genre for years. His enthusiasm for creating organic environments that defy conventional expectations is palpable, indicating a commitment to innovation in gameplay.
During a visit to the studio, questions about the studio’s direction and Smilegate’s investment lingered. Kurosaki, a key figure in the studio, explained that Smilegate’s vision was clear from the outset: to associate with high-quality games and allow That’s No Moon the creative freedom to produce the game of their careers without micromanagement.
Interestingly, it was That’s No Moon that proposed using the Crossfire name, after conducting an in-depth exploration of the franchise’s lore. This decision reflects their ambition to tell a compelling story within the established universe, showcasing their commitment to quality and narrative depth.
As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, Crossfire stands out as a promising title that merges cinematic storytelling with tactical gameplay. With its unique mechanics and engaging narrative, it is poised to capture the attention of players seeking a fresh experience in the realm of single-player shooters.
