Team Jade is poised to redefine the tactical shooter genre with its ambitious new title, Project Spectrum. Building on the success of their previous hit, Delta Force, this latest endeavor ventures into uncharted territory, blending elements from various gaming genres to create a unique multiplayer experience. During a recent behind-closed-doors demonstration at Gamescom, I had the opportunity to delve into the game’s eerie atmosphere and innovative mechanics.
Atmospheric Gameplay and Unique Mechanics
The first aspect that captivates players is the juxtaposition of tactical military simulation and a chilling, supernatural environment reminiscent of iconic horror titles like Resident Evil and Alan Wake. Players assume the role of agents equipped with military-grade weaponry, communicating through modern comms links with phrases like “copy that,” echoing the familiar feel of Delta Force. However, the similarities end there. Project Spectrum shifts focus from explosive combat to an unsettling ambiance that aims to instill fear and tension.
In the demo, a squad navigates the grounds of a dilapidated mansion, tracking a mysterious dark energy source known as the Ember with a specialized camera. As they explore, they encounter eerie creatures reminiscent of Dementors, hovering ominously above the mansion. Inside, they must stealthily maneuver past zombie-like entities while managing a sanity meter that distorts their perception, introducing dark illusions and spectral threats. The atmosphere is thick with tension, enhanced by the sound of wind howling through cracked windows and picture frames crashing to the floor.
Upon discovering one of the energy sources, players trigger a dramatic encounter with a towering, black-cloaked boss. The battle escalates as the boss splits into numerous spider-like minions, creating a frantic fight that showcases the game’s dynamic combat mechanics. Game director Basil Wang notes that such encounters are strategically placed throughout the map, with contextual elements that enhance the gameplay experience. For instance, creatures inspired by x-rays become more formidable when encountered in their designated environments, such as hospitals.
Asymmetrical Multiplayer Dynamics
Project Spectrum introduces an intriguing asymmetrical multiplayer component, allowing players to take on the role of the Executioner—a monstrous entity capable of swift, lethal attacks. This character poses a significant threat to agents, utilizing wall-hack-style scans and tendrils to ensnare unsuspecting players. The Executioner’s design promises to elevate the tension and excitement of each match.
Wang remains somewhat enigmatic regarding the mechanics for becoming the Executioner, emphasizing the need for balance in this PvPvE environment. “The Executioner is pretty powerful,” he explains, “and while we want it to be fun, we also aim to ensure that players don’t get stuck in a negative feedback loop.” Players can customize their agents extensively, providing a rich experience that encourages exploration and strategy. The introduction of the Executioner serves as a wild card, adding unpredictability to the gameplay.
Rich Yu, the vice game director, assures players that engaging with the Executioner is not mandatory. Drawing parallels to the 2015 title Evolve, he highlights the importance of balance in gameplay. “In Project Spectrum, you don’t have to confront the Executioner every time,” Yu states. “You can focus on gathering what you need and exiting the map.” This design philosophy aims to create a more enjoyable experience without overwhelming players with constant threats.
Crafting and Progression Systems
For agents, confronting the Executioner necessitates careful resource management. The crafting system allows players to create and upgrade weapons, fostering innovative survival strategies. Wang describes the potential for crafting unique tools, such as a crawler bot equipped with smoke grenades, enabling players to manipulate their environment strategically.
When discussing the overarching progression and metagame, the team reveals a system that diverges from typical extraction shooter models. “In Project Spectrum’s metagame, players can recruit, manage, and upgrade their agents,” Yu shares enthusiastically. “It’s akin to a CRPG, setting it apart from the Tarkov-like meta.” This depth of progression adds another layer of engagement, inviting players to invest in their characters and strategies.
While many questions remain about Project Spectrum, the ambitious blend of genres—tactical FPS, extraction shooter, survival horror, and CRPG—promises a fresh take on multiplayer gaming. Team Jade has crafted a compelling atmosphere, and the tactical combat mechanics appear finely tuned. With the Executioner adding an exciting twist, Project Spectrum is undoubtedly a title to keep an eye on as it continues to develop.
