SOCOM Deploys To PSP
Worried you won't be able to play SOCOM: U.S NAVY SEALs on the go? Well, now you can with SOCOM: U.S NAVY SEALs Fireteam Bravo, available now for the PSP (Playstation Portable). You can add mobility to the long list of things that the SOCOM franchise can do, featuring new modes, and graphics making this a pretty decent buy for PSP owners. The hardcore SOCOM series gamer might ask, "Well what's new for this title?" And I would answer by saying this title is pretty much a whole new installment.
One common misconception about SOCOM: U.S NAVY SEALs Fireteam Bravo is that this latest release is essentially the Playstation 2 version of SOCOM 3 for PSP. That is completely inaccurate and false. The only thing this title has in common with the Playstation 2 version of SOCOM 3 is the crosstalk capability, and the Area of Operations.
The layout for SOCOM: U.S NAVY SEALs Fireteam Bravo is enhanced to fit the PSP console and Zipper Interactive pulled out all of the stops. Instead of two teams called Alpha and Bravo, the PSP version of SOCOM features only the Bravo element. Hence, the name in the title: "Fireteam Bravo". Your two-man team consisting of SEAL member Sandman and SEAL member Lonestar, combat terrorism and evil regimes with the same Area of Operation as the Playstation 2 version. Their is an exclusive Chile Area of Operation added to the mix with this PSP version, otherwise Morocco, South Asia, and Poland are all available.
A new Instant Action mode allows PSP users who just want quick action to play certain objectives of any completed mission. A nice feature considering most PSP users might be on the go and don't want to play an entire mission. The missions and objectives of "Fireteam Bravo" are totally different from those of the SOCOM 3. And the game play is similar to past SOCOM titles. Yet the storyline is sort of similar but then it's not similar. The only reason they feature the two releases feature the same Area of Operations is to preserve the crosstalk feature.
Crosstalk is a radically new feature which Zipper Interactive has implemented for the first time on any Sony game console. Basically if you have SOCOM 3: U.S NAVY SEALs for the PS2, you can sync the data and effect the way you play each game. For example, in the Morocco missions if you knock out the radio tower in the PS2 version the terrorists in the PSP version will not be able to use their radios. Also, if you find certain hidden documents this will help you unlock hidden characters and other hidden weapons. It's a really cool feature and it helps you integrate the two games. This is a big plus if you already own the PS2 release. No, crosstalk is not done via a wireless connection between you PSP and PS2 so you'll need a USB cable to sync the two.
Of course this PSP release of SOCOM would not be complete without full online play capabilities. SOCOM: U.S NAVY SEALs Fireteam Bravo features 2-16 player online competition via a Wi-Fi connection. The modes include Free-for-All which is basically a Navy SEAL death-match, and other favorites like Extraction.
Also, another SOCOM favorite the voice command headset is back. No, it is not sold with the game but you can purchase a special PSP headset (SRP $19.99). "Fireteam Bravo" still has some voice commands but obviously with no other fireteam, you issue commands to your other SEAL member.
The graphics are very clean, clear and sharp. The cut scenes are amazingly sharp and very similar to that of the Playstation 2 version. Likewise, the sound is similar to the PS2 version but a lot of audio clips have been taken out such as your mission briefing.
The controls are frustrating because due to the layout of the PSP, some buttons were given dual capabilities. The triangle button selects your stance and it also doubles as a quick weapon selector by holding on it. Also, to aim, you have to use freemode which basically aims your scope. Freemode gets frustrating but after awhile you get used to it. Still, I felt the controls could have been handled better. When your in the middle of combat, nothing is more frustrating than fumbling around just to throw a grenade.
Zipper Interactive is spot on with the Auto Target Lock-on feature though. It basically locks on to an enemy target using the R button, and makes targeting a lot easier for the PSP. Otherwise you have to use freemode which is extremely difficult. I didn't understand though the missing weapons. "Fireteam Bravo" basically has the same weapons as SOCOM 3 but with several vital ones missing such as the Mk. 46 and the lack of a sidearm. You are issued a sidearm in SOCOM: U.S NAVY SEALs Fireteam Bravo but it is basically your choice of a HK5 or a HK7, and essentially those are submachine guns not a traditional sidearm like an M9 or a DE. 50.
No doubt about it, SOCOM: U.S NAVY SEALs Fireteam Bravo is a really good title. Most experienced SOCOM might not pick this one up, but I would encourage them to at least take a look at it. Think about this for a second, you can now play against your SOCOM buddies online wherever there is a Wi-Fi connection; an awesome concept. For those new to the SOCOM experience this is definitely a PSP worth every cent. This Third Person military shooter is one not to be missed this year. Be sure to check out the official SOCOM blog for information about the franchise.
SOCOM: US NAVY SEALs Fireteam Bravo is rated "M" for Mature (Content suitable for ages 17 or older.) and is available for the PSP (Playstation Portable) game console.