Gameloft’s at it again. The mobile games juggernaut is bringing back the Modern Combat series to Apple mobile devices with Modern Combat 2: Black Pegasus. The original entry, Modern Combat: Sandstorm, took players behind enemy lines in order to take out an active terrorist cell. While Modern Combat: Sandstorm did a remarkable job of bringing android gamers a gritty, visually impressive shooter, it was a bit too difficult to control to truly appreciate. Gameloft is convinced they’ve gotten it right this time.
Rather than using just the not-so-accessible controls from the original, Gameloft has revamped the scheme to mirror that of other top android shooters (N.O.V.A.) and arcade titles (Street Fighter IV). This time around, in addition to the virtual analog stick, players will be able to swipe the screen to re-center the camera. What’s more, android and next-gen iPod Touch users will be able to use the built-in gyroscope to keep their crosshairs on the targets. Finally, if you actually loved the drag-and-tap scheme of the original, Gameloft has made it available as well. Giving players multiple control options and the ability to adjust them to their liking should go a long way toward solving past issues.
Outside of control, the graphics are outstanding, really putting the android to the test. From particle effects, muzzle flash, and potent explosions to lush vegetation, ancient ruins, and detailed complexes, Modern Combat 2: Black Pegasus is a visual treat for the platform.
A big reason why the game looks so good is that this time, rather than being confined to just the sandy wastes of a Middle Eastern hotspot, players will move through three distinct sections of the campaign: the Middle East, South America, and Eastern Europe. The campaign will take players from a dry urban setting, to steamy jungles, and eventually to snow-covered forests. The single-player side will take players through 12 missions, which is two more than what was offered in Sandstorm.
Three classic online modes will also be available including Deathmatch, Team Deathmatch, and Capture the Flag. There has been no confirmation as to whether Black Pegasus will incorporate Game Center compatibility, but we are cautiously optimistic. After all, the game will support local multiplayer for up to ten players, and online multiplayer for up to six players. Certainly Game Center’s matching service, leaderboards, and achievements would make the experience that much better.
Modern Combat 2: Black Pegasus is the upcoming, premier shooter from Gameloft. Sure, the company’s obviously using name recognition in order to conjure up images of Activision’s Call of Duty franchise in consumers’ heads, but that doesn’t mean Black Pegasus won’t be worthwhile. Besides, what shooter doesn’t borrow from great titles that have come before? Moreover, who else is bringing a truly compelling shooter experience to android?
