Developed by one of my favourite studios Intelligent Systems’ Code Name S.T.E.A.M (standing for; Strike Team Eliminating the Alien Menace) is set for release on the 15th May this year, while the US gets the full game over two months earlier with a 13th March release. Those interested in the game will be happy to know that there is a demo available for download on the e-shop in case you want to see how it plays and if this is a game you’d want to purchase on release… which I will very much be doing.
We’re then shown the protagonist for the game Henry Fleming who appears to be an agent stationed overlook a ceremony taking place at Buckingham Palace; naturally everything goes awry with a sudden attack by aliens prompting Henry to take action. The game plays out in a classical turn-based fashion with players' movement/attacks restricted to their 'steam bar', therefore certain thought is required when traversing the maps. It is always a good idea to take cover/hide where you can. As I found out, it is very easy to become overwhelmed if you stray too far into enemy territory. Fortunately, players can backtrack their steps if they peek round a corner and encounter aliens suddenly waiting there. Due to the game taking an third person perspective, tracking enemies’ movements is key; it’s usually a good idea to get one of your fellow S.T.E.A.M agents to higher ground when they are able to scope out enemy locations. You’ll pay for it if you foolishly wander straight into enemy sight, as not only will they be aware of your position but there are particular types of alien that, if within range, will attack with projectiles despite it still being your turn. It definitely feels that a slow and steady approach is best for this game, which suits me perfectly as I like to be methodical with movement making sure that every time I engage alien units I cause as much damage as possible. Also saving some of your steam up can be beneficial; Henry has an ability called “Over Watch” which allows him to fire at enemies on their turn which disrupts their attack as well negating the chance for any damage to be dealt to your character.
Other features of the game include Pickups and Currency. Throughout the map there will be coins scattered in breakable crates. They will also rewarded for defeating enemies. Their main function can be used at Save Stations where you can also pay to heal the character or heal every character (including fallen allies); also everyone gets a full bar of steam, which essentially means that two go in the space of one. There are also Gear Pickups, which can be used for character equipment. However this feature wasn’t available to use in the demo. I sunk in a good two hours playing and this is definitely a game I’ll be purchasing at release, maybe with one or two of the Fire Emblem amiibos given the functionality they have in the game allowing them to be playable characters. Regardless this game feels very slick, well-polished and most importantly enjoyable; I may even go back to replaying the demo as after initial completion the option to go back to earlier levels with all agents is present and I’d like to get a better grasp of how each character complements each other.
Now to wait 'til May!
Are you excited?