Ready or Not may be worlds apart in terms of graphics, mechanics, and features, but it still possesses glaring similarities to the SWAT series. For that reason alone, I'm excited to play it.
As a console gamer, I've had no choice but to watch on with intrigue (and jealousy) while streamers and other content creators enjoy the heart-pounding experience Ready or Not provides. However, with the game arriving on consoles this summer, I'll be able to reignite the flame I once had for tactical first-person shooters.
Growing up, SWAT was probably the first tactical FPS game I experienced. I vaguely remember playing SWAT 3: Close Quarters Battle on the computer before Global Strike Team landed on the PlayStation 2, but for some reason, it's SWAT 4 that has stuck with me the most.
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+ 3We're going back quite some time, and it makes me feel very old, but I can still picture my character lining up with the rest of the SWAT team outside a building in the middle of the night. I remember getting into position before instructing to make entry, with both my gun and handcuffs at the ready. I honestly couldn't tell you what happened from there as it's all a blur, which I suppose reflects the real thing.
Whether it was a raid or rescue mission, there was just something about strategically working your way through unfamiliar surroundings and unknown dangers alongside AI friendlies geared up in full SWAT attire. With Police running in the family, I've always been fascinated by armed response and firearms units, so being able to step into their shoes in a fictional world was pretty damn cool.
Considering how far technology has come since the last entry in the SWAT franchise, it's no surprise that Ready or Not has taken the tactical FPS genre to the next level, and I genuinely can't wait to try it out. From stunning graphics to gripping gameplay, VOID Interactive's title has been a great success so far, receiving praise for its authenticity and intense action.
click to enlarge+ 3So many things have stood out to me while watching other people play the game, such as the variation between locations, the unpredictability of enemies, meticulous strategic planning, and the overall sense of realism that seems to have been captured eerily well.
Another factor that makes me excited to play is VOID's dedication and commitment to improving the game through regular updates. Ready or Not has received new maps, features, weapons, and more in recent years, offering players increased variety. With its upcoming arrival on consoles, there will undoubtedly be even more content planned for the future.
Although games like Call of Duty and Rainbow Six Siege have allowed me to revisit the days of SWAT to some extent, I'm ready to get stuck back into the real action by responding to active bomb threats, barricaded suspects, and high-risk hostage situations.
click to enlarge+ 3With at least 20 missions that can be played in either single-player or online co-op mode, additional DLC content, pre-order exclusives, and an array of customization options, Ready or Not's £45 ($50) price tag on console has me sold, well, even more so!