Bohemia Interactive, developer of the PC ArmA series, is giving android owners and Project SHIELD hopefuls their fill for turn-based combat on-the-go. ArmA Tactics is the first announced exclusive title for the next handheld iteration. With a throwback, Full Spectrum Warrior feel, the game should be able to capture a hardcore and casual audience by allowing accessible controls and vastly improved graphics via the Tegra 4 mobile processor. Direct from Bohemia Interactive:
"Arma Tactics is a turn-based close-combat strategy game, where the player takes control of a four-member Special Forces team. There are no given strategies, rails to move on, or paths to follow; it‘s up to the player to decide how he will play through both the story-driven missions and generated missions with randomized objectives. Whether using stealth or a more direct approach, players will need to use their strategic thinking and use both basic and advanced weaponry while facing many different opponents - ranging from unorganized local militia to smart and skilled mercenaries."
There seems to be a new embrace of the turn-based style of play as the console version of X-COM: Enemy Unknown was well received with positive reviews and above-average sales. Developer Firaxis is hoping that that pedigree transfers successfully to their iOS version and I would not leave out the possibility of it later coming to the Nvidia device. As games of this genre come to mobile platforms, there is hope that other major Triple-A titles that were previously forgotten on consoles, can be scaled down and make a return mobile-side. At GDC in March, I played several titles on the Project SHIELD device including a cleaner and faster running version of the original Max Payne. Though an older title, Project SHIELD seems to be capable of emulating great controls and smooth presentations of last generation’s games (and maybe the current gen).
As Q2 gets closer (ending June 30th) I am getting excited about the prospects of Project SHIELD. Do you feel the same? Share your thoughts about the Nvidia device or possibility of playing last generation titles again in mobile form on twitter @thejunglecreed
and @entertainfuse.
