In 2013, CCP Games embarked on an ambitious journey with Dust 514, a first-person shooter designed to complement its renowned MMO, EVE Online. Despite its potential, the game struggled to find its footing, largely due to its exclusivity on the PlayStation 3. However, the spirit of innovation has not waned; now operating under the name Fenris Creations, the developer is revisiting this vision with EVE Vanguard. The new title aims to blend extraction gameplay with cross-game integration, aspiring to create a unique experience reminiscent of the ongoing narratives found in Helldivers, yet fueled by the dynamic ecosystem of EVE’s player-driven corporations and alliances.
During my playtest of EVE Vanguard, I was pleasantly surprised by its engaging gameplay and thoughtful design choices, which allow it to stand on its own, separate from its predecessor. The game immerses players right into the action, a refreshing contrast to other titles that often delay engagement. Upon loading into the “war barge” menu, players are immediately presented with the option to deploy, bypassing the often tedious navigation of sub-menus.
Murderhobo Monday
The playtest experience was designed to be accessible, with initial objectives revolving around straightforward tasks like eliminating foes and looting boxes. This low-pressure entry point encourages exploration of the map, allowing players to discover hidden treasures and thrilling encounters organically. While some may crave more structured guidance, the thrill of stumbling upon unexpected challenges adds a layer of excitement that Fenris has the opportunity to refine as development progresses. The philosophy of “go figure it out” resonates strongly, offering a refreshing alternative to the typical waypoint-driven gameplay.
My first deployment was a learning experience, as I quickly fell victim to another player and found myself equipped with a basic, low-tier assault rifle. Despite this setback, even the default weapon felt satisfying to use, a testament to the game’s solid mechanics. The sound design and weapon feedback are commendable, enhancing the overall experience. Among the arsenal, a particularly striking laser sniper rifle, reminiscent of the Halo Covenant, stood out, alongside a fun-to-use shotgun.
Gun Game
As I progressed through multiple deployments, I began to appreciate the core gameplay loop of exploration, combat, and survival. The intricacies of enemy spawn rates, economic factors, and EVE Online integration can be fine-tuned over time, but the fundamental enjoyment of the game is already apparent. Fenris’ goal, as articulated by Davis, is to create an experience that players will miss if the game were to be canceled. This ambition reflects a desire to evoke nostalgia akin to what players felt for Dust 514, emphasizing that the memories forged in gameplay extend beyond mere mechanics.
As EVE Vanguard continues to evolve, it holds the promise of delivering a captivating experience that honors its legacy while carving out its own identity in the gaming landscape. Players can keep an eye on Fenris’ official website or Steam to stay updated and even wishlist the game, marking their anticipation for what lies ahead.
