Vanquish: Shoot Laser Rifles and Boost Slide in this Sci-fi Third Person Shooter

Vanquish is a high-octane third-person shooter set in a near-future sci-fi world. Developed by PlatinumGames, known for their fast-paced action titles, Vanquish combines fluid, over-the-top gameplay with a unique sliding boost mechanic that keeps combat fast and dynamic. The game’s blend of stylish action, cinematic storytelling, and striking visuals offers an adrenaline-fueled experience that remains a cult favourite.

Plot and Setting

Set in a future where Earth’s resources are critically depleted, Vanquish centres around a conflict between the United States and a technologically advanced Russia. The story begins when Russia seizes control of a massive space station, using it to unleash a devastating solar energy weapon on San Francisco, threatening to destroy New York next.

Players step into the role of Sam Gideon, a DARPA operative equipped with the cutting-edge Augmented Reaction Suit (ARS), sent to the space station to stop the Russian forces and their enigmatic leader, Victor Zaitsev. As Sam, players uncover a deeper conspiracy behind the conflict while battling waves of mechanized enemies and towering robotic bosses.

Gameplay Mechanics

Boost Sliding: The ARS suit enables players to slide across battlefields at high speeds, adding a dynamic layer to combat and traversal. This mechanic is central to the game’s fast-paced, tactical action.
Bullet Time (Augmented Reaction Mode): When under heavy fire or executing precise manoeuvres, players can slow down time to target enemies with precision or escape danger.
Cover System: While the game includes a traditional cover system, it encourages aggressive, high-mobility gameplay rather than staying stationary.
Weapon Variety and Upgrades: Players have access to a wide arsenal of weapons, from assault rifles to laser cannons, all of which can be upgraded throughout the game.
Boss Battles: The game features large-scale, visually stunning boss fights that challenge players’ reflexes and tactical thinking.

Themes

Technological Advancement and Warfare: The game explores the role of cutting-edge technology in warfare, as embodied by Sam’s ARS suit and the weaponized space station.
Heroism and Sacrifice: Sam’s mission reflects themes of selflessness and resilience in the face of overwhelming odds.
Geopolitical Tensions: The narrative delves into global power struggles and the potential consequences of militarized technology in a resource-scarce future.

Visuals and Audio

Vanquish boasts sleek, futuristic visuals with intricate mech designs, dynamic explosions, and sprawling sci-fi environments. The space station is a visual spectacle, combining industrial settings, high-tech architecture, and battle-ravaged landscapes.

The audio design is equally impressive, with intense sound effects, a pounding techno soundtrack, and explosive weapon sounds. Voice acting complements the cinematic presentation, capturing the story’s drama and its protagonist’s charisma.

Have you played Vanquish? What’s your favourite part of it? We’d love to hear from you.

Other things you might want to know:

How many hours is Vanquish game?

Around 5 to 10 hours long.

Is Vanquish on PS5?

No, Vanquish has recently been put on PC and PS4.

Is Vanquish Remastered worth it?

The 2017 remaster brought the game to a new audience, enhancing its visuals and performance, solidifying its reputation as a stylish and unforgettable action experience.

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