In the crowded arena of online PVP shooters, “The Finals” stands out as a fresh and exhilarating experience, blending high-octane action with a gameshow aesthetic and extraordinary environmental destruction. In a genre where only a few titles like “Call of Duty” or “Apex Legends” thrive, “The Finals” offers a unique proposition.
Imagine a world where the 1987 film “The Running Man” meets intense 3v3v3 gunfights – that’s “The Finals”. Set in a vibrant virtual gameshow format, teams battle to accumulate cash before time runs out, all within a setting reminiscent of the over-the-top spectacle of 1980s American Gladiators.
Gameplay Dynamics and Modes
“The Finals” currently features two main modes. “Quick Cash” is a frenetic race where teams scramble to gather coins and deposit them at specific map locations, ensuring constant action and avoiding stalemates. On the other hand, “Bank It” mode emphasizes more dispersed PvP combat, with players collecting coins from vaults or fallen enemies, balancing the rush of battle with strategic loot deposits.
While each mode is inherently engaging, the game’s current limitation to these two options raises concerns about long-term player engagement. As I spent dozens of hours diving into the game, I couldn’t help but feel the need for more variety to sustain its community’s interest.
Competitive Tournaments and Ranked Play
The competitive spirit of “The Finals” truly shines in its tournament setup. Here, players are thrust into brackets, facing off in modified versions of “Cashout” with the top teams advancing through the rounds. The mix of high stakes and swift, satisfying gameplay cultivates an addictive “just one more game” sensation. The inclusion of a ranked version adds an extra layer of challenge, pushing players to excel in their leagues.
Character Classes and Equipment
Players can choose from three distinct character weight classes, each offering unique playstyles. The Light class prioritizes mobility, the Medium class balances abilities, and the Heavy class – reminiscent of Rainbow Six: Siege’s playstyle – dominates with heavy weapons and brute force. The game’s equipment variety, from standard frag grenades to innovative jump pads and goo grenades, adds strategic depth, though current balance issues favor the Heavy class, somewhat limiting diversity in competitive modes.
Cosmetics and In-Game Economy
Cosmetic customization is extensive, with a variety of options unlockable through gameplay progression or real-world purchases. However, the slow pace of unlocking these items without spending money can be frustrating. Similarly, the in-game currency, VRs, used for unlocking non-cosmetic items, also suffers from slow accrual, hindering experimentation with different builds.
Environmental Destruction: The Game’s Crown Jewel
The standout feature of “The Finals” is its breathtaking environmental destructibility. Whether crashing through ceilings or blowing holes in floors to seize objectives, the dynamic destruction creates a constantly evolving battlefield, adding a strategic layer to each match. The crumbling buildings and debris not only offer visual spectacle but also shape the flow of combat in memorable ways.
Solo Play and Team Dynamics
Solo matchmaking is efficient, and the game’s simple communication system facilitates coordination even without voice chat. However, the absence of team replenishment in mid-match can lead to challenging situations when playing alone. The game shines brightest when playing with friends, where coordinated strategies and team compositions bring out the best in “The Finals” gameplay.
Verdict
“The Finals” marks a refreshing entry in the competitive shooter genre. Its unique blend of gameshow flair, objective-focused gameplay, and unparalleled environmental destruction sets it apart. While the game could benefit from more modes and some balance adjustments, these issues are minor compared to the overall thrilling experience and the sheer spectacle of its destructible stages. “The Finals” is not just another shooter; it’s a groundbreaking foray into what a PvP shooter can be, combining strategy, teamwork, and a whole lot of destruction.
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