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Operation Flashpoint Dragon Rising is far from perfect. But, if you need a break from the Hollywood-Style first person shooters out there, you should probably give this a look.
What you may like
Players who prefer a more tactical shooter over the more popular corridor roller coaster rides will feel right at home with Operation Flashpoint: Dragon Rising. The game’s open world allows you discretion to approach missions the way you see fit. Operation Flashpoint also provides a much more realistic reaction taking small-arms fire. For example, getting shot in the leg will eliminate your ability to sprint.
Operation Flashpoint has a good amount of gameplay variety ranging from small arms direct contact, to calling in artillery, to driving humvees and flying helicopters.
What may disappoint
Instead of the high-octane in-your-face action you’d find in Halo or Call of Duty you’re served with lengthy tactical maneuvering to set up longer-range gun fights. If you prefer regenerating health and close range, corridor combat you will be disappointed.
Further, the interface for controlling your character and your team is overly complicated and will most likely be the reason behind you and your team dying more than once during the game.
Last, gamers who require an excellent multiplayer experience won’t find it in OFDR. Co-Op is fun, but not spectacular. Competitive multiplayer might as well not exist at this point as virtually no one is playing the game online anymore.
Overall
Even with its flaws, Operation Flashpoint Dragon Rising is still one of my favorite shooters from this generation. Just know I’m biased toward these more tactical style shooters. If you prefer the open-world tactical approach to military battle games over the more hollywood-esque shooters like Halo and CoD, Operation Flashpoint may just be for you.
As always, if you’ve already played, leave some commentary so readers can see a more comprehensive picture.