The Finals: A High-Stakes, Destructible Playground
In a world inundated with PvP first-person shooters (FPS), The Finals stands tall, not only due to its fascinating gameplay physics but also because of its unique blend of mechanics, setting, and environmental dynamism. Developed by Embark Studios, a team of ex-Battlefield and Battlefront veterans, The Finals has managed to turn heads and deliver an experience that has gamers both thrilled and intrigued.
Gameplay and Unique Mechanics
Sporting fast-paced and intense combat that revolves around theft, protection, and depositing money boxes, The Finals offers players an adrenaline-fueled, chaotic experience set amongst the dystopian landscape of an alternative Las Vegas.
The most exceptional aspect of this game is undoubtedly its server-side destruction mechanics, offering players a degree of environmental freedom not seen in any other FPS title. The ability to punch through walls, destroy ceilings, and create makeshift cover by way of rubble invites players to be as creative as they are destructive.
However, while the destruction is satisfying, it’s important to note the level design does occasionally guide players towards specific environmental interactions. This clever trick doesn’t feel restrictive, instead maintaining the illusion of limitless possibilities.
The Open Beta has come to an end!
An unforgettable week for us — a whopping 7.5 MILLION contestants entered the arena! Now it’s time for us to hunker down and get back to work on all the fixes and improvements you helped us identify. GG and until next time! 🫶#REACHTHEFINALS pic.twitter.com/JI1KXQMNdr
— THE FINALS (@reachthefinals) November 6, 2023
Quality, Storyline and Player Experience
Despite being a live-service, free-to-play shooter, The Finals boasts impressive visual quality that immerses players into a futuristic Las Vegas. The three-person squad setup encourages teamwork and strategy, while the chaotic blend of combat, stealth, and destruction keeps gameplay varied.
Although the storyline is somewhat sparse, it serves its purpose in providing a backdrop to the dystopian world where contestants fight for fame and fortune. The Finals doesn’t need an elaborate narrative to draw players in – the high-stakes combat and destructible environment are more than enough.
Embracing a pay-to-cosmeticize model, The Finals offers an extensive range of cosmetic and weapon options for players, catering to different build types and playstyles and ensuring that everyone can show off their unique flair.
Impact on the Gaming Industry
The Finals has the potential to make a significant impact on the FPS genre, pushing boundaries with its destruction mechanics and environmental freedom. By offering a fresh twist to the familiar team-based shooter format, it challenges other developers to think beyond the conventions and explore the possibilities of dynamic environments.
Verdict
The Finals is a game that should not be missed by fans of the FPS genre. With its sophisticated destruction physics, thrilling gameplay, and extensive customization options, The Finals offers something new and exciting in a market saturated with similar titles.
As a free-to-play game with ongoing support from its developers, The Finals is absolutely worth the time and effort for players who crave fast-paced action and a chaotic playground where their destructive capabilities can shine. Only time will tell if The Finals can maintain its momentum, but as it stands, this game is poised to make an indelible mark on the world of gaming.
