Thinking about getting this game on Steam. Just wondering how good are destructible environments compared to other classic FPS games like FEAR or Black?
Depends on the area. Most of the time you're so laser focused on shooting bad buys you don't hit the background as much, but there is a decent amount of destruction at some later setpieces. I was impressed with the final boss fight.
I got a bit of a fear feeling when you start fighting the mercenary's. They were a blast to engage, because Even though they are heavily armored I love how shooting them in the head throws off their aim and stuns them for a fraction of a second.
Not to mention they have unarmored family jewels
The upgradeable slo mo is great in short bursts. Although some guns feel a little clunky at longer periods. (Shotgun takes forever to rack)
Though I do have some minor complaints. The skill system doesn't seem very fleshed out and there are really only 3 (maybe 4) skills that would give you any sort of benefit. The "Psychology" and "Focus" skills are completely useless. The PCB system that changes the stats of the Auto-9 gun was also somewhat confusing and I never found it to make any difference across two different playthroughs. Some of the side missions felt really drawn out, like the one where you have to get signatures for a card and the one where you have to find the right VHS tape for Pickles at the Video Rental store. ("How many references to 80s movies can we fit into this one section of the game?")
I feel like there really isn't that many opportunities for the diplomacy option to shine outside of the first hub area or so. There are a handful of interactions if you upgrade it to two as soon as possible. In particular I like how you can use it to take the arcade guy in alive or give a spray can artist community service. Otherwise especially if your playing on hard I can't think of a reason why you wouldn't max out deduction for the bonus xp as soon as possible.
Most of the other abilities are actually pretty useful. Slow mo is a must if you want to consistently not screw up hostage situations. Getting the movement booster is essential for the final boss.
The other thing, is the game actually has a shit ton of quests and opportunities you can miss if you don't pay attention. Deduction says it will mark points of interest on the map but it doesn't actually do anything besides ocp chests and public disorder quests.
You have to actually pay attention and find the five side quests on every hub map and the quests or two on every other main mission.
For example if you don't check the front desk of the police station before a briefing you'll miss an opportunity to play receptionists in the beginning.
