This seminal title is a first-person role-playing game set in a dystopian future. Players step into the augmented shoes of JC Denton, an agent for a global anti-terrorist organization. The narrative begins with a mission to thwart a terrorist attack on Liberty Island, but quickly evolves into a complex, world-spanning conspiracy. As the story unfolds, players are presented with choices that challenge their character's allegiances, beliefs, and moral compass, forcing a re-evaluation of right and wrong in a technologically advanced, yet deeply troubled world.

Setting and Atmosphere

The game immerses players in the year 2052, a period characterized by advanced technology, societal stratification, and widespread fear of terrorism. The atmosphere is one of gritty realism and philosophical introspection, exploring themes of transhumanism, societal control, and the nature of humanity in a world where augmentation is commonplace. The environments range from bustling urban centers to clandestine research facilities, each contributing to the game's pervasive sense of unease and intrigue.

Core Gameplay Mechanics

This title blends elements of first-person shooting with deep role-playing mechanics, offering players significant freedom in how they approach objectives. Players can engage in direct combat, utilize stealth and hacking to bypass obstacles, or employ social manipulation to achieve their goals. A key feature is the skill and augmentation system, allowing players to customize JC Denton's abilities to suit their preferred playstyle. This includes a wide array of cybernetic enhancements that grant new powers and capabilities, from enhanced strength and speed to advanced hacking tools and cloaking devices.

What makes player choice impactful?

The game's defining characteristic is its emphasis on player choice and consequence. Decisions made throughout the narrative have tangible impacts on the story's progression and its ultimate conclusion. This branching narrative structure, combined with the freedom to approach situations through multiple gameplay avenues—combat, stealth, hacking, or diplomacy—creates a highly replayable and personalized experience. The game also features a robust inventory system and a variety of interactive elements within the environment, further enhancing the sense of agency.

Story and Premise

Players assume the role of JC Denton, a newly augmented agent tasked with combating a global terrorist threat. The initial mission quickly unravels, revealing a deeper, more sinister plot involving powerful organizations and hidden agendas. The narrative delves into philosophical questions about free will, destiny, and the ethics of technological advancement, prompting players to question the true nature of the conflict and their place within it.

Additional Content

This is the main game. There are no downloadable content (DLC) packs or expansions available for this title. A remaster was released, offering updated visuals and compatibility for modern systems.

Platform Availability

This game is available on PC (Microsoft Windows), Linux, and Mac platforms.

Release Information

The original release date for this game was June 26, 2000.