The Finals Review by AI

The Finals Review by AI

 

The Finals Game Review

The Finals is a competitive first-person shooter developed by Embark Studios, which stands out for its unique blend of tactical gameplay and extreme destruction mechanics. Set in a futuristic world where the game is broadcast as a deadly live competition, players take on the role of contestants battling it out in chaotic, destructible environments. Released in early access in 2023, The Finals has caught the attention of FPS enthusiasts with its innovative approach to gameplay, offering a fresh take on the genre.

Premise and Gameplay

In The Finals, players are thrown into a high-stakes game show where the goal is to outlast and outsmart opponents while completing objectives in a dynamic, constantly changing environment. The game’s setting revolves around futuristic arenas, each designed for intense combat and featuring destructible environments. The ultimate objective is to secure and hold valuable assets while fending off enemy players and causing as much chaos as possible.

The core gameplay centers around competitive team-based action, with players working in squads to complete objectives, eliminate opposing teams, and survive in environments where everything can be destroyed. The game combines traditional FPS mechanics, such as shooting and mobility, with a deep focus on environmental manipulation and destruction. It’s a game where tactics and quick thinking are essential, and the environment plays just as important a role as weapons and player abilities.

Destruction and Environment Interaction

What truly sets The Finals apart from other competitive FPS games is its emphasis on environmental destruction. The arenas are designed to be fully destructible, meaning that almost every wall, building, and obstacle can be shattered, altered, or even used as a weapon. This creates a dynamic battlefield where strategies change on the fly based on the state of the environment.

For example, players can use explosives or heavy weapons to bring down structures, block enemy sightlines, or create new paths to objectives. You can collapse walls to create shortcuts, destroy cover to force enemies out of hiding, or even rig environments to create traps. The level of interaction with the environment is incredibly high, giving players countless ways to approach each situation. This system encourages creativity and offers a fresh twist on the conventional FPS formula.

The destructible environments also create a sense of unpredictability. No two matches will ever play out the same way because the map changes as the game progresses. While this makes for exciting gameplay, it also requires players to constantly adapt to the shifting landscape, adding a layer of tension and strategy.

Team-Based Objectives and Combat

The Finals is not just about fragging your opponents, but also about completing objectives that are tied to the overall progression of the game. Each match typically revolves around securing valuable objectives, such as collecting assets or defending key points, all while facing off against enemy teams. The tactical balance between offense and defense is essential.

The combat mechanics are fast-paced, with a variety of weapons available, ranging from traditional firearms like rifles and shotguns to more specialized tools designed for environmental interaction. The game also incorporates advanced movement systems, including climbing and vaulting, allowing players to navigate the destructible environments with ease.

Player roles are flexible, and each character can be equipped with different tools or abilities. Some players may specialize in demolition, while others may focus on defense, creating a highly strategic experience. The flexibility of the combat system allows for a variety of playstyles, encouraging teams to work together and complement each other’s strengths and weaknesses.

Visuals and Art Direction

The game’s visual design strikes a balance between futuristic, high-tech aesthetics and gritty realism. The environments are bright, colorful, and full of intricate details, with each arena offering a distinct look. From industrial warehouses to futuristic cityscapes, the maps are visually diverse and vibrant, providing a visually appealing backdrop for the chaos of battle.

The destructibility of the environments is impressive, and the physics behind it is well-executed, with debris flying in all directions during intense firefights. The game also has a polished lighting system, adding to the atmosphere and emphasizing the ever-changing dynamics of the battlefield.

While the graphics aren’t hyper-realistic in the same way some AAA titles might be, the stylized, slightly cartoony aesthetic fits well with the game’s overall tone. It’s not meant to be an ultra-realistic shooter but rather a fun, chaotic, and visually engaging experience.

Sound Design and Music

The sound design in The Finals is solid, with immersive environmental sounds that make the world feel alive and reactive. The sounds of gunfire, explosions, and environmental destruction all contribute to the chaotic atmosphere, while the voices of teammates (if playing in a squad) and enemy chatter add to the immersion.

The music, though not the focal point of the game, sets the tone for each match. It’s dynamic and adjusts according to the pace of the game, adding to the adrenaline rush during high-intensity moments. The music complements the action without overshadowing the core gameplay, keeping the focus on combat and strategy.

Progression and Customization

The Finals features a progression system that rewards players with new skins, cosmetics, and equipment as they advance through matches and complete objectives. While the core gameplay is free-to-play, players can unlock additional content through gameplay, with a variety of cosmetic items to personalize their characters and weapons.

Customization is also a key feature when it comes to loadouts. Players can choose different equipment, weapons, and abilities based on their playstyle and role in the team. This freedom allows for a lot of strategic flexibility, as no two players need to approach the game in the same way. You can specialize in different tactics, whether you prefer to use heavy explosives, focus on mobility, or provide support with defensive tools.

Multiplayer and Community

The game thrives on its multiplayer aspect. The Finals is built from the ground up as a team-based shooter, and communication and coordination are key to success. The game emphasizes working together with your squad to achieve objectives and defeat rival teams. Whether you’re positioning yourself strategically or coordinating a well-timed attack, teamwork is essential.

The multiplayer lobbies are fast-paced, and matches typically run for a short amount of time, keeping the action intense but digestible. However, as with any online multiplayer game, the quality of matches can vary depending on the player base and matchmaking system. Fortunately, The Finals has built a vibrant and engaged community, with constant updates and support to ensure a smooth experience.

Challenges and Frustrations

While The Finals is exciting and dynamic, it’s not without its challenges. The destructible environments, while a huge selling point, can sometimes lead to frustration if the destruction makes it difficult to complete objectives or creates a chaotic battlefield that’s hard to navigate. Players may find themselves often adjusting to rapidly changing environments, which can be a double-edged sword.

The game also relies heavily on teamwork, and inexperienced or uncooperative players can make some matches feel unbalanced. Since the gameplay hinges on coordination and strategy, solo players may struggle in team-based modes where communication is key.

Additionally, the game's focus on destruction and environmental interaction can sometimes overshadow other gameplay mechanics, making it hard to balance the chaotic nature of the environment with traditional combat.

Final Thoughts

The Finals is an exciting, fast-paced first-person shooter that offers a fresh twist on the genre with its focus on environmental destruction and dynamic gameplay. The destructible environments, combined with the need for team-based strategies and quick thinking, create a unique and engaging experience that will appeal to both tactical FPS fans and players looking for something new in the genre.

The game’s colorful and chaotic gameplay, combined with its strategic depth and multiplayer focus, make it a standout in the competitive FPS market. While the destructibility of the environments can lead to unpredictable moments, it’s this very unpredictability that keeps the game fresh and exciting. If you enjoy games that reward teamwork, strategic planning, and creative thinking, The Finals is definitely worth a try.

With its blend of high-tech aesthetics, intense action, and a focus on environmental interactivity, The Finals offers a new kind of shooter experience that’s worth exploring, especially if you're looking for a game that rewards both chaos and careful strategy.