There are more than a few hardcore gamers out there who have a soft spot for the Tribes franchise. If you’ve never heard of Tribes before, better catch up on the game’s history because you’re missing a lot. Before Battlefield 1942 and its succeeding installments brought team-based multiplayer FPS to a new level, Tribes allowed nerd-warriors to battle it out across infernal maps from land, space, and air.
The Legacy of Tribes
The Tribes series began with “Starsiege: Tribes” in 1998, a game that introduced many players to large-scale, team-based combat. It was revolutionary for its time, offering vast maps and a variety of vehicles and weapons. The game emphasized teamwork and strategy, setting it apart from other shooters of its era.
Many will agree that Tribes 2, released in 2001, was the peak of the series. It expanded on the original with improved graphics, more vehicles, and even larger maps. The game also introduced new gameplay mechanics, such as deployable turrets and sensors, which added a layer of strategy to the already complex gameplay. Despite its initial success, the series struggled to maintain its popularity. Succeeding installments, like Tribes: Vengeance, did little to improve its standing in the FPS genre.
The Decline and Revival
Thanks to the onslaught of HALO, Rainbow Six, Call of Duty, and other blockbuster franchises, Tribes has sunk into obscurity. These games brought new innovations and captured the attention of gamers worldwide, making it difficult for Tribes to compete. However, the core fanbase of Tribes has always remained loyal, hoping for a revival of the beloved series.
Revitalized gaming franchises seem to be the buzzword this 2011, with Duke Nukem Forever coming real soon plus the eagerly anticipated Battlefield 3 exploding in late 2011. Hi-Rez Studios has just streamed a trailer of Tribes Ascend, which we can expect to fare better now that no additional HALO games are on the horizon until next year. Tribes Ascend aims to bring back the fast-paced, team-oriented gameplay that made the original games so popular. With modern graphics and updated mechanics, it hopes to attract both old fans and new players alike.
The trailer for Tribes Ascend showcases stunning visuals and intense gameplay, reminiscent of the series’ glory days. The game promises to stay true to its roots while incorporating modern elements to appeal to today’s gamers. This includes a variety of classes, each with unique abilities and weapons, as well as the return of the iconic jetpacks and skiing mechanics that made the original games so unique.
Hopefully by then, the Earth explodes (thanks Mayan calendar) and Tribes can reclaim some of its lost glory. While the Mayan calendar prediction may have been a humorous exaggeration, the sentiment remains: fans are eager for Tribes to make a triumphant return.
Go here for an immersive visual experience into the world of Tribes Ascend.
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