Syndicate
(1993 Electronic Arts)


Syndicate is an outstanding, incredibly atmospheric action-strategy 
game by Bullfrog, one of the best of its kind. The game is set in a 
bleak future where "Syndicates" control the world. You're a young 
executive in a small European based syndicate, you must perform a 
series of tasks to subdue the major population centres one by one 
until you have driven the forces of the rival corporations out of 
their final strongholds.

What makes Syndicate stand out from other real-time strategy games 
is the combination great gameplay and unmatched immersion that never 
gets boring. The game mixes elements of business management, strategy 
and action into one very addicting package. Missions are carried out 
by up to four agents, any or all of whom can be controlled by you 
through use of the "CHIP" technology. Each agent has his or her own 
stats, which can be improved via implementing cybernetic attachments, 
which in turn must be researched using funds you collect from winning 
a mission. One of the game's best feature is the ability to adjust 
the stats of your agents. Since they are not real humans but cyborgs, 
the agents' Intelligence, Perception, and Adrenalin levels can be 
artificially boosted by drugs at any time to suit your tactics. You 
will often boost an agent's attribute to the level you prefer, and 
then leave him to fend for himself - the agent will then react with 
pinpoint accuracy to any threats, and run away if necessary. Of 
course, as with real-life drugs, there is a downside. After a 
sustained period of exposure to the drug, the body's tolerance 
increases, and the net effect of the drug increases - more is needed 
to achieve the same effects as before (diminishing marginal utility, 
one might say). This simulation of drug addiction is very well 
implemented, and adds a great dimension to gameplay.

Although most of the missions are of the "kill all enemies" type, 
there are many different objectives that keep the game afresh: you 
will subdue the local resistance, capture VIPs, or even use a 
persuadertron on someone. Speaking of persuadertron: this is a good 
example of how unique and deep Syndicate is. Not quite a weapon, the 
persuadertron allows you to persuade others to your side-- anyone 
falling under the influence of the persuadertron will follow the 
agent who carries it, powerless to resist. Normal citizens can be 
"persuaded" instantly, while guards, police and members of opposing 
syndicates require that a number of civilians are persuaded first 
before the persuadertron will work on them.

Played from a excellent isometric pseudo 3D perspective, Syndicate 
was a graphic tour de force for its time. Busy streets are filled 
pedestrians, vehicles and enemy agents. Digital street signs 
advertise the latest products as your agents battle it out with the 
forces of the enemy beneath. Buildings can be entered, cars driven 
around (and used to splatter enemies), and occasional parts of the 
environment can be ignited. With incredible atmosphere, solid gameplay, 
and high replayability, Syndicate is Peter Molyneux' masterpiece and 
one of the best games ever made. A must-have, especially for all 
cyberpunk fans. Two thumbs up, way up!


Note: Included along with the game is the "American Revolt" add-on.  


