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Good things come to those who wait, and for those who have been hoping to see the next evolution in cooperative multiplayer from the minds behind Left 4 Dead, the wait is almost over. And an evolution or revolution it might prove, with the upcoming Evolve swapping out hordes of savage enemies for just one - over powered, oversized, and overwhelming unless the opposing players work together.

After early showings and a multiplayer Beta showed just how important teamwork will be for players counting down the days to launch, Turtle Rock Studios has announced that Evolve has officially gone gold, with development wrapped for the time being. In celebration of that fact - and likely to show that a well-tuned squad of Hunters can be as much as thrill as a responsibility, the opening cinematic to the game has been released.

Clearly favoring the cinematic over a moment-to-moment simulation of the game experience, each one of the classes gets their time to shine in the game's cinematic introduction. The overarching 'story' promised by the developers is still largely absent, but the classes of Hunters themselves take center stage.

For those who have yet to put names to faces, there's Markov Golushko, a Personal Shield-equipped, Assault Class damage-dealer; Maggie the Trapper shown here without the aid of her trusty Trapjaw, Daisy; Hank, whose Orbital Barrage shows that his Support Class moniker doesn't tell the whole story; and the Medic Val, who finally gives the healing member of the squad some time in the limelight.

Evolve Game Intro Cinematic

It remains to be seen just how much of an audience Evolve finds when it comes to the PC, PS4 and Xbox One this year. The delay into February 2015 was made to allow 'more time to polish' the experience (not surprising, given the challenge of balancing a 4 vs. 1 arena), but that also brings it into competition with some massive brands. Not that Turtle Rock hasn't earned some credit, or a loyal fan base, but with next to no emphasis placed on the offline singleplayer campaign, the coming weeks of marketing could prove telling.

Expect to see new game modes advertised, the fact that DLC maps will be handed out free of charge further highlighted, and who knows what else before the game hits store shelves. There's no question that the game has shown the foundations of a one-of-a-kind multiplayer experience for seasoned players. If Turtle Rock can find a way to teach new shooter fans the make-or-break need to 'play one's class,' then Evolve may prove a sleeper hit in a year already filled with established franchises.

What have you made of Evolve thus far? Has the rise in online multiplayer experiences convinced you it may be up your alley, or does the lack of a singleplayer campaign temper your exctiement? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Evolve releases February 10, 2015 for PC, PS4, and Xbox One.

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