The evolution of computer games has finally led to a situation where many gamers can play multiplayer games with people around the world. It hasn’t taken game developers long to realise that allowing geographically separated people to interact via online games adds a lot of appeal to them, and almost all the top new games which have been released have incorporated an online element.
Call of Duty: Black Ops
Call of Duty 7: Black Ops has been one the biggest gaming successes of 2010. Based in the Cold War, is carries on where Call of Duty 6: World at War left off. The game has achieved record-breaking sales upon release, offering the ability to play online on PC, Xbox 360 and Playstation 3.
Players adopt the roles of special forces operatives and secret agents involved in secret operations behind enemy lines in locations across the world including Russia, Vietnam and Cuba. As well as fast-moving gameplay, players can enjoy some very cinematic sequences. The game even features real political figures including John F. Kennedy and Fidel Castro and Vietnam War-era music from The Rolling Stones.
FIFA 11
The latest edition of FIFA is bound to become one of the games of the year, with new career modes allowing players to act as players, managers and player-managers. Signing players, negotiating contracts and developing players, management career mode can be played for fifteen seasons.
There’s also a new 5-a-side mode, as well as traditional 11-a-side. Players can now control a goalkeeper for the whole game, and online multiplayer 11 vs. 11 games are available for the first time. Goalkeepers are more realistic than ever in terms of movement and momentum. There are also improved celebrations and a great soundtrack including Caribou, Groove Armada, The Gorillaz, Ladytron and Wiley.
Assassins Creed: Brotherhood
Assassins Creed has proved a popular series of games, and the latest is no exception. Assassins Creed 3 : Brotherhood is based in 15th century Italy, with the main protagonist Ezio. Recruiting disgruntled citizens and sending them on missions, the aim of the game is to rebuild Rome, investing in the city and encouraging development.
There are even some new toys to play with, including parachutes, poison darts and crossbows. Fans of this game enjoy historical accuracy and the fantasy element. The map of Rome is much larger than any of the maps on previous games, and players can even explore rural Tuscany.
All of these games can now be played online, against or with competitors from around the world. It’s no wonder that gaming is growing in popularity as a recreational activity when game developers are spending so much time and effort developing stunning games with excellent functionality. Even betting sites are now realising that interactivity and a sense of community enhances games.