The A.C.E.S, watchful guardians of Switchblade City, are being taken down, one by one. Now it's up to one man, with two fists, to get to the bottom of it all. Fallen Aces is a crime noir FPS that plays right out of the '90s and looks like it's right outta the comics.
The game's robust melee combat system goes beyond simple button mashing. Players can punch, kick, block, and parry to take down enemies up-close. But the real versatility comes from using the environment as a weapon - players can pick up and throw objects like trash cans, pipes, and other debris at foes. For ranged combat, the game provides a variety of firearms, from handguns and shotguns to the classic Tommy gun. While ammo is limited, these weapons pack a serious punch and can efficiently clear out groups of enemies. The ability to seamlessly transition between melee and ranged combat adds a satisfying tactical element.
The levels in this game offer multiple paths and routes for players to explore. Whether it's finding a hidden vent to sneak through or blasting through the front door, the game gives players the freedom to approach objectives in different ways. This nonlinear design rewards exploration, as players can uncover alternative entrances, secret areas, and other environmental interactions that may provide helpful items or lore. Revisiting levels to discover new shortcuts or take a different approach adds substantial replayability.
While not a full-fledged immersive sim, the game incorporates key mechanics from the genre. The limited inventory system forces players to carefully manage their carried items, making tough choices about which weapons and gear to bring. Additionally, the highly interactive environments allow players to manipulate objects to their advantage. These immersive sim elements, combined with the nonlinear level design, give players a great deal of agency in how they approach each situation. Players can choose to sneak through undetected, engage in all-out combat, or find creative solutions using the tools and freedom the game provides.
The overall gameplay loop feels very satisfying. Melee combat has a great sense of weight and impact, while ranged weapons provide a visceral punch when taking down enemies. Environmental interactions, such as throwing objects or using cover, also offer a rewarding level of feedback. As players progress, they'll discover new weapons, equipment, and other upgrades that add a sense of progression and reward for exploration. The game's systems encourage experimentation and replayability, as players can try out different approaches and find their preferred playstyle.