Section 8 is a first-person shooter for the PC and Xbox 360. It features a sci-fi back story and has a strong multiplayer slant. It was developed by TimeGate Studios and they’ve done a good job creating an immersive and tactical FPS with solid game mechanics.
There is a single player component to Section 8 but it is best enjoyed as a multiplayer experience. If you are looking for an in depth story and a gripping series of single player levels then look elsewhere. If you want a fast paced multiplayer FPS with real depth then you should sign up for the 8th Armored Infantry, or Section 8 for short, without delay.
You play as super soldier Alex Corde and the objective based single player campaign is a short and sweet. It serves best as an introduction to the principles of the game which only really come to life when human opponents are involved. The weapon set in the game is uninspired and you’ll get your hands on assault rifles, sniper rifles, shotguns, rocket launchers and explosives. You can also man the big gun at times and there is some limited vehicle play. Your standard movement is beefed up by a limited use jetpack and a super sprint which you can use to quickly cover large distances.
The core Conquest mode is all about dominating a large territory. You have to capture specific points on the map which give you control of zones. It takes time to capture a zone and once it belongs to your team you have to defend it. The team based gameplay works best when you can coordinate your efforts and solo assaults are rarely successful. The basic domination aim is complemented by a side quest system which challenges you to perform small tasks for bonuses such as destroying specific targets or people.
The gameplay is chaotic at times but it does allow for a good tactical approach and if you can play the game with two teams who are taking it seriously and genuinely playing as teams it is hugely fun. The respawn mechanic is also excellent as you fall to the planet’s surface from orbit and have to apply the airbrakes at just the right moment to perform a graceful touch down.