While at E3, I got to get my hands on Codemasters’ Bodycount, the new game headed up by Black developer Stuart Black. Promising a “pure” shooter experience where it’s all about the guns, Bodycount sounds like a good deal for guys who just want to kill stuff. I certainly like where it’s going. We already have a full preview, but here are some quick Jimpressions!
Bodycount is, as its name suggests, an endless parade of death. Even in this early, unfinished demo, enemies are pouring from every corner and they take some punishment before going down. Players are helped by a pretty cool crouch mechanic that allows them to position their aim up or around cover, tilting and popping up with 360 degrees of total movement. Players also need to be aware of their aim, as continuing to spray bullets decreases accuracy. It takes some getting used to, but once you learn how to focus your aim, you’ll be popping out from cover and taking down fools with aplomb.
I enjoyed playing Bodycount. It was tough, but pretty adrenaline pumping. I also love the visual style, with blue and yellow markers boldly making this game stand out from other shooters. Oh, and the sassy female operative who helps you in missions and keeps remarking on how hot you are helps move things along.
Add in fully destructible environments and plenty of guns to play with, and Bodycount is looking like a worthy spiritual successor to Black. It runs the risk of being overshadowed by other shooters, especially the similar but altogether more outrageous Bulletstorm, but it looks like a solid shooter, and Stuart Black is very proud of it, which has to count for something.
