Only a few short days ago, following leaked pre-order images that appeared on the EA Origins server, we reported on an impending announcement from Crytek Studios of a sequel to the mega-popular sci-fi shooter, Crysis 2.
Now, publisher Electronic Arts, in conjunction with the developer, have officially announced Crysis 3 for release in 2013 on PC, PS3, and Xbox 360 - as well as offered up new details on the highly-anticipated follow-up.
Leaked cover art from the Swedish version of print magazine Game Reactor hinted at the possibility of a new Crysis reveal; though, at the time, some gamers remained skeptical - since many believed that Crytek, known for pushing graphical boundaries, would be waiting for the inevitable PS4 and Xbox 720 to unleash a new installment in their flagship franchise. Instead, many believed the studio would potentially offer-up an entirely new IP.
However, any speculation can now be put to rest - as Crysis 3 is officially out in the open and, based on this early info, should offer-up an enjoyable mix of the same classic nanosuit game mechanics players enjoyed in previous games while also adding some new elements into the mix.
According to Crytek Chief Executive Officer, Cevat Yerli:
“Crysis 3 is a thrilling mix of sandbox gameplay, advanced combat and hi-tech human and alien weaponry that shooter fans will love. Leveraging the latest CryENGINE technology, we’re able to deliver seven unique themes that offer stunning and visually loaded gameplay experiences. We cannot wait until people get their hands on the game.”
No doubt one of the biggest questions, following the leaked Crysis 3 images, was how exactly the follow-up would tie-into the plot of Crysis 2 as well as who exactly would be piloting the nanosuit this round. While many believed we'd once again be taking-on the role of Alcatraz, the Force Recon Marine turned one-man-army from Crysis 2, as it turns out, Crysis 3 will actually see the player in the nanoboots of series icon Prophet (once known as Laurence "Prophet" Barnes).
Here's the official teaser synopsis for Crysis 3:
Set in 2047, Prophet is on a revenge mission after uncovering the truth behind Cell Corporation’s motives for building the quarantined Nanodomes. The citizens were told that the giant citywide structures were resurrected to protect the population and to cleanse these metropolises of the remnants of Ceph forces. In reality, the Nanodomes are CELL’s covert attempt at a land and technology grab in their quest for global domination. With Alien Ceph lurking around every corner and human enemies on the attack, nobody is safe in the path of vengeance. Everyone is a target in Prophet’s quest for retribution.
At first, the return of Prophet might be confusing - given that many players will remember the character died in the opening of Crysis 2 - it was later revealed that Barnes was "alive" inside the nanosuit worn by Alcatraz. Furthermore, in the closing moments of Crysis 2, a quick cutscene suggests that the isolated personalities of Barnes and Alcatraz were both at work in the Nanosuit - operating together as a singular entity, Prophet. Meaning, that while Prophet is back for Crysis 3, this won't be a carbon copy of the character from the original Crysis.
Check out Prophet in action in these new Crysis 3 screenshots:
[gallery order="DESC" columns="2"]
Players will have to wait until 2013 to see how Prophet is depicted this round; however, EA has announced a series of pre-order incentives for gamers eager to secure their copy of Crysis 3. Similar to the bonuses offered to Crysis 2 pre-orderers, pre-launch Crysis 3 buyers will automatically be upgraded to the Crysis 3 "Hunter" Edition:
The Crysis 3 Hunter Edition gives players the tools to become the ultimate hunter in multiplayer with early access to the new signature bow and its attachments, plus the Hunter Nanosuit module which adds additional power and functionality to the super-suit. Gamers who pre-order now will also have a head start when playing online with a bonus XP boost up to level 5, a unique bow skin and three exclusive dog tags to hunt in style. The Crysis 3 Hunter Edition is available on Origin.com and other participating retailers for $59.99.
Dependent on which retailer players pre-order their copy from, they might also be eligible to receive on of the following bonus incentives (though, at the time of this writing, EA had yet to specify where to go for each respective pack):
- Stalker Pack — Includes the base game, all Hunter Edition content and the following early multiplayer unlocks: for players who like to stalk their prey from the shadows the Stalker Pack provides early multiplayer access to the deadly semi-auto Jackal shotgun. This powerful, close-range shotgun comes with a unique silencer attachment, custom weapon skin and two exclusive themed in-game dog tags.
- Overkill Pack — Includes the base game, all Hunter Edition content and the following early multiplayer unlocks: the Overkill Pack features early multiplayer access to the Typhoon assault weapon and skin. Spewing 500 rounds a second, the Typhoon gives players the ability to go guns blazing to take back the Liberty Dome. Also included are two exclusive Overkill themed in-game dog tags.
- Predator Pack — Includes the base game, all the Hunter Edition content and the following early multiplayer unlocks: the Predator Pack delivers early multiplayer access to the Feline submachine gun and exclusive camo. With an extremely fast rate of fire and a 60 round magazine the Feline is highly effective and deadly, at short range.
Crysis 2 offered players an unprecedented amount of customization options - allowing them to fortify the nanosuit and explode onto battlefield spewing ammo or turn on cloak and slip past enemies for stealthy killing. Judging by these pre-order bonuses, players should expect the same choose-your-playstyle fun from Crysis 3.
Crysis 3 will arrive for the PC, PS3, and Xbox 360 in 2013.
-
Follow me on Twitter @benkendrick.