Crysis Review

Crysis, developed by Crytek and published by Electronic Arts, originally set a new benchmark for PC graphics in 2007. Its arrival on the PlayStation 3 (PS3) in 2011, as a digital-only release, was met with both anticipation and skepticism. This first-person shooter (FPS) promised to bring its iconic Nanosuit gameplay to console, but the question remained: could the PS3 handle the demands of such a graphically intensive title? This Crysis PS3 review explores how it fared.

Gameplay: Tactical Freedom in a Sandbox

The core strength of Crysis lies in its Nanosuit, which grants players four distinct abilities: Strength, Speed, Armor, and Cloak. This suite of powers allows for unparalleled tactical freedom in approaching combat encounters. Players can choose to go in guns blazing with enhanced strength, sprint past enemies with incredible speed, absorb damage with reinforced armor, or vanish entirely with cloaking. This creates a true sandbox environment where creativity is rewarded.

Missions are set on the lush, open Lingshan Islands, initially against North Korean forces, and later against a terrifying alien invasion. The game encourages players to experiment with different approaches, whether it’s stealthily eliminating patrols, setting up ambushes, or using the environment to their advantage. The weapon customization system is robust, allowing for on-the-fly attachments that adapt to any situation. While the controls on PS3 are well-adapted for a gamepad, the game’s open-ended nature and reliance on quick power-swapping translate effectively to the console experience.

• Iconic Nanosuit with four versatile abilities
• Unparalleled tactical freedom and open-ended combat
• Dynamic weapon customization system
• Expansive sandbox environments on Lingshan Islands
• Engaging blend of human and alien enemy encounters

Story and Setting: Sci-Fi Thriller in a Tropical Paradise

The narrative of Crysis begins with a US Delta Force team, equipped with Nanosuits, deployed to the Lingshan Islands to rescue archaeologists from a North Korean invasion. What starts as a conventional military operation quickly escalates into a desperate fight for survival against an ancient, technologically superior alien race.

The story is a thrilling sci-fi shooter, filled with dramatic twists and intense set-pieces. The tropical island setting provides a beautiful yet dangerous backdrop for the unfolding conflict, transitioning from lush jungles to frozen alien structures as the invasion progresses.

Graphics and Sound: A Console Compromise, Still Impressive

For a game that was once the ultimate graphical benchmark on PC, its transition to the PS3 involved necessary compromises. While it couldn’t match the highest settings on a top-tier PC, the PS3 version of Crysis still looked remarkably good for the console. The environments were detailed, the Nanosuit’s effects were impressive, and the scale of the battles was conveyed effectively. It ran at a respectable frame rate, though occasional dips were noticeable during intense action.

The sound design is excellent, with impactful weapon sounds, satisfying Nanosuit ability cues, and a dynamic orchestral score that perfectly complements the action and tension. The voice acting is solid, contributing to the game’s immersive qualities.

Legacy: A Port that Proved Possible

While Crysis on PS3 couldn’t fully replicate the PC experience, it proved that the game was indeed capable of running on console hardware. It brought its unique Nanosuit gameplay to a wider audience and remains a notable entry in the PS3’s library, showcasing the console’s capabilities even with a demanding title.

Is Crysis on PS3 Worth Playing Today?

For FPS fans and those curious about a pivotal moment in gaming history, Crysis on PS3 is still worth experiencing. Its innovative Nanosuit abilities and open-ended combat offer a unique tactical experience that few other shooters provide. While it has been surpassed graphically by newer titles and remasters, it remains a compelling and enjoyable classic PS3 game that offers a distinct flavor of sci-fi shooter.