Call of What?
I finally had a chance to get my hands on Battlefield 1. I have been a longtime fan of this series for over a decade now. I had my eye on this release for a while. I think the return to more simple times in warfare has been a welcomed change in the hackneyed future soldier narrative. Something about being more human than an augmented soldier from one of the various first person shooters out there has been released this year. All of it seems to revolve around space and the future. Not to say I'm not a fan of the new Call of Duty, but it seems as though the franchise has left many people with a lot to be desired. With the last 3 titles being so similar, the base story of these modern and future shooters seems to be overdone to the extreme. Enter Battlefield: I've always made the connection as movie types for the way that each game is set up. First of all, the biggest difference in multiplayer and general game play is the sheer scale battlefield possesses. I absolutely adore the Frostbite engine. I am really a sucker for destructible environments. When I had the chance to try the beta, I was pleasantly surprised by the fluidity of combat despite being a normal soldier with no jetpack or exo suit. I think that Battlefield 1 really does a good job at what it is, and it doesn't pretend to be something it isn't.
A Visceral Experience:
My favorite comparison to give context as to what kind of game you're getting into with Battlefield, think of Call of Duty like an Indiana Jones movie, you play a titular hero who seems to blend in with the rest of the protagonists in the franchise, and you save the world/universe/galaxy/etc.This also describes the story, similar to Indiana Jones, there is a war going on, but this is more focused on characters than it is the war. Then multiplayer is like a fun arcade game. Battlefield is more like Saving Private Ryan, and it puts you right in the middle the war. It lives up to the title of Battlefield. Not to say that just because you have one or the other you can't enjoy both, but they are truly two different narratives. The multiplayer feels like Battlefield, but the added component of close melee combat really does make a difference in the gameplay mechanics. The fully destructible environments packaged with the beautiful details in the scenery and provides a sublime dynamic battle. Need to get into a fortified building or house? Blow the walls. Need to get rid of some pesky enemies in a vehicle? Plant a trap. The beauty of Battlefield shines in it's neatly packaged game play.
Where does Battlefield stand?
Battlefield is a wonderful title. The classes are decently balanced, and can accommodate various play styles. The vehicles are a great part of the game, nothing says, I mean business like a WWI era tank putting pressure on a front-line. I would wager that while this isn't exactly a WWI simulator, it's all the things I enjoy about simulators, plus the added feature of being completely fun and action oriented. I have played Red Orchestra, a PC title that is very realistic in its portrayal of Stalingrad in WWII, the game has a lot of challenge, and sometimes that can take away from the fun itself. Gameplay in Battlefield is very smooth, and if you will find yourself dying plenty while you're getting the hang of it. Personally, I usually play medic class in most games. I like the medic in Battlefield, however I actually found that I enjoy being the sniper just as much. I enjoy turning the tides on objectives and capturing points of interest in the game. It is even better when you have a few of your close friends to game with. If you have any interest in playing on PS4, add me via PSN at CombatOrphan.
The Bottom Line
Battlefield lives up to its expectations, and nearly made me forget I even owned Call of Duty. I have been playing this title since I picked it up, and I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys first person shooters. Battlefield is the title that lets your dreams of playing Army as a kid come true in a gritty, destructive and massive environment. I love the destructible environments and it really is a fantastic time getting to learn each class and figuring out what weapons you like. Personally, I'm a huge fan of the K98 and the Mosin Nagant bolt action rifles. The rate of fire isn't semiautomatic, but something about the bolt action makes you pick and choose your shots. I enjoy the thrill that Battlefield brings which I just do not get from other shooters. I hope that with time this game continues to be fun. I highly recommend this title if you enjoyed any of the games I've recommended in the past, I can tell you with confidence this title will be no exception to that. I give Battlefield 1 a solid 9/10 and it doesn't need a second game or remaster to bring the average up.
