PlayStation may just have found the game for selling the PlayStation VR headset, and what a game it is. Rigs is futuristic sports title that features athletes piloting giant robots to compete in a variety of match types. It scratches the itch for a new Mechwarrior game, but also makes the controls simple enough for just about anyone to jump in without any trouble.
First revealed at E3, Rigs arrived at Tokyo Game Show 2015 with a full demo available. The single match mode available, Power Slam, appeared in the trailer but was now available for the visitors to try out. Essentially, two teams of three mechs compete to score points by powering up their mechs and jumping through a central ring.
The clever part of the game is that controlling the mechs requires coordination between the Dual Shock 4 controller and the PlayStation VR headset. Movement for the mech is done with the thumb sticks, as is common with most shooters. However, aiming the weaponry is done by looking around. Allowing the player a greater amount of freedom while fighting.
During the demonstration, players were given one of six Hero Rigs to use. Each had its own weaponry and special power, serving a different role in the arena. Mark Green, senior producer at Guerilla Games Cambridge, explained that the six preview Rigs were classified into three classes. The Hunter class was the smallest and fastest, while the Mirage class was given the ability to double jump. Finally, the Tempest class had the ability to hover in the air to gain a better vantage point; albeit at the cost of armour.
We weren’t entirely sure which Rig fell under which class, seeing that the demo on the show floor was in Japanese and the assistants spoke no English either. However, that did not stop us from quickly figuring out how the game works and quickly racking up points.
The Rigs themselves have three modes that can be shifted through so gain bonuses, but at the expense of being revealed on the mini-map. Rigs can switch between Turbo, Power, and Regeneration to gain the appropriate bonus. Additionally, all three modes will be activated when the Rig enters Overdrive; which also allows it to score by leaping through the central hoop.
Overdrive mode is gained by either picking up six power spheres, or by destroying three opponent Rigs. While there are only three Rigs to each side, this was easily accomplished with how quickly players respawn.
Guerilla Cambridge is promising more game modes, with a greater variety of Rigs to choose from. Additionally, there are plans for a single player mode; Green did not want to go into details as it is still in the early stages of development, but we understand that it might entail a single player league in the style of modern sports titles.
As it stands, there is no concrete release date for Rigs. It is understood that Guerilla Cambridge is aiming to get it out the door around the same time as the PlayStation VR. Admittedly, it does not look like that is going to happen as Green was very coy about how much of the game is done. That being said, this could easily be the title that will sell the PlayStation VR; and other VR game developers should be taking notes.
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