Insurgency: Sandstorm

The Insurgency series of games started as a game mod in 2007. The mod gave Counter-Strike a more realistic and chaotic feel. Since then Insurgency has grown into its own franchise. Insurgency: Sandstorm is a team-based, first-person shooter that focuses on close-quarters combat and objective-driven missions. In Insurgency, two teams face off in a variety of missions that take place in various locales. The game allows for large-scale battles with 16 players on each side but, the game-play really heats upon when there are fewer combatants on restrictive maps that for firefights in close quarters.

Keepin’ It Real

Insurgency: Sandstorm is a realistic tactical shooter. It separates itself from its counterparts like Call of Duty with game-play features and pacing that simulates real combat. The shooting mechanics in the game are tight and unforgiving. However, the game rewards players for solid shooting. One accurate shot is likely to take down your foe. Players should be prepared for a rewarding challenge.

Another nice touch is that reloading a half-empty clip does not automatically transfer the remaining bullets. Players who constantly plink and reload may find themselves short of ammunition as the round wears on. Bullet penetrations mechanics are another part of the equation that adds up to ultra-real combat in Insurgency: Sandstorm.

Play Your Part

This is a team-based game. Each player may select a class of solider to take onto the battlefield as an avatar. Each of the games 19 classes make a unique tactical contribution. Players should ensure their tactics line up with the strengths of their class if they hope to be successful.

Specialists are great for close quarter combat and will allow players to embrace their inner point-man, wielding a carbine or shotgun. Sharpshooters can pelt their foes from long distances with a bolt-action sniper rifle and attached site. For those who are more interested in tactical play, the engineer may be the class choice. The engineer is one of the games many explosives experts.

Prepare to Die

Newcomers can expect the phrase “War is Hell” to become an early game mantra. One-shot can be lethal and the game’s gunplay is tight and unforgiving. Couple that with limited ammunition and resources and death is always right around the corner…literally. One thing that most Insurgent players will tell you is that the games steep learning curve is worth it. The game rewards proficiency and tactical brilliance. It also severely punishes tactical blunders. I once was killed because my avatar burst into a coughing fit while I was running through the shroud created by a teammates smoke grenade. The game features gas masks use them.

Conclusion

Players looking for well-paced, chaotic close-quarters combat are going to be in for a treat with Insurgency: Sandstorm. The game rewards steady aim and tactical intellect for players with enough grit to get past its steep learning curve. The game’s 19 classes provide players with a large variety of roles to play as they aid their squad in conquest.

Pros

• Realistic Team Based Shooter
• Rewards Tactical Brilliance
• Large Selection of Useful Classes
• CS:GO Improved

Cons

• Steep Learning Curve
• Mediocre Graphics