Ravaged is set in a post-apocalyptic world where two factions, the Resistance and the Scavengers vie for humanity’s most precious resource, gas.  The resistance, a seemingly more polished and organized group fights for humanity, while the Scavengers, a murdering band of savages, utilize any means with the intention of complete dominion over resources.  In the end, it is an action packed class-based multiplayer shooter that brings many aspects of gameplay into one epic game.

First Impressions
Visually, the game is just stunning.  At first glance, there is an impression of a Mad Max or Rage feel to the game.  It’s actually refreshing to see this post-apocalyptic theme rather than a rehash of the modern-era combat and weapons, which frankly seems to be getting long in the tooth.  The level of detail in the maps and levels is stunning and really brings out the type of culture expected for the survivors of humanity.  The buildings and vehicles look as if they are all cobbled together with string and duct tape.

While the setting of the game is rather dark and gritty, it is also comical and similar to the Team Fortress series in some respects.  Getting blown up by a grenade really blows you apart into many little pieces in comedic fashion.  Did you finally end that guy’s killing spree camping your spawn point? They also added the rather fulfilling taunt command.  While you can’t tea bag your opponent’s corpse, you can flick him off proudly, with the simple push of the taunt button and your character will pay your respects properly.

The Classes and Weapons

As a class based shooter, variety in the characters is spread across 10 classes (5 for each faction), each with unique styles and role types.  Similar to TF, there is a heavy equivalent, a lightweight scout, the all-around soldier, and the support versions for each faction.  Each has their own strengths and weaknesses based almost entirely on their weapon choices.  The trusty old AK-47 not fulfilling enough for you?  How about a crossbow or the standard issue nail bat?  Whichever you prefer, the games 30+ weapons and vehicles will definitely cover many preferences.  But at the same time, I can’t help but feel the weapon selection is rather limited for each individual class.  This is likely done for class balancing, but it still would be nice to have a decent selection per class.  However, 2 Dawn is promising added content in future DLCs.  Until then, I’ll be happy with my M-19 Grenade Launcher and humbly waiting for a chainsaw.

One minor nitpick was the jerkiness of the rifle scope.  After firing, the crosshairs instantly jumps to a random point.  While obviously an effect from the recoil, there is no shifting or wavering effect of the scope after firing.

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