Watch Dogs will be set in Chicago with a narrative thread centering around “master hacker” and “former thug” Aiden Pierce, who if the game’s E3 showing is anything to go by has a serious problem with smooth traffic. A flyer for the game has ended up in Kotaku’s inbox and it provides a bit more background on what seems like a very expansive take on the saturated cover shooter genre.
“Chicago currently has the country’s most advanced computer system – one which controls almost every piece of the city’s technology,” the flyer says. “Enter Aiden Pierce, a master hacker but also a former thug, whose criminal past caused a violent family tragedy.
“Now on the hunt for those who hurt his family, Aiden is able to manipulate the city’s operating system to stop traffic lights, detonate gas lines, turn off the electrical grid, derail subway trains, and more. The city of Chicago has become the ultimate weapon for a man bent on revenge.”
The Intricacies of Chicago’s Advanced Computer System
The game’s setting in Chicago is not just a random choice; it’s a city known for its complex infrastructure and technological advancements. The advanced computer system in the game, referred to as the Central Operating System (ctOS), is a fictional representation of a highly interconnected urban environment. This system controls everything from traffic lights and surveillance cameras to the power grid and public transportation. The ctOS is designed to make the city more efficient and secure, but in the hands of someone like Aiden Pierce, it becomes a powerful tool for both justice and chaos.
Aiden Pierce’s ability to hack into this system allows players to experience a unique form of gameplay. For example, players can create traffic jams to escape pursuers, blackout entire neighborhoods to sneak past security, or even eavesdrop on private conversations to gather intel. This level of interaction with the environment sets Watch Dogs apart from other games in the genre, offering a sandbox experience where the city itself becomes a playground for the player’s strategic maneuvers.
Aiden Pierce: The Man Behind the Hacker
Aiden Pierce is not just a faceless hacker; he is a deeply flawed character with a rich backstory. His journey from a criminal past to a vigilante seeking justice for his family adds layers of complexity to the narrative. Aiden’s skills in hacking are not just a gimmick but are deeply tied to his personal quest for vengeance. His ability to manipulate the ctOS is both a blessing and a curse, providing him with the means to track down those responsible for his family’s suffering but also isolating him from the world around him.
The game delves into themes of privacy, security, and the ethical implications of a connected world. Aiden’s actions raise questions about the morality of surveillance and the potential for abuse in a system where one person can wield so much power. The narrative challenges players to consider the consequences of their actions, making Watch Dogs not just a game about hacking but a commentary on the digital age.
In addition to the main storyline, Watch Dogs offers a variety of side missions and activities that further explore the capabilities of the ctOS. Players can engage in digital trips, which are mini-games that take place in a virtual reality, or participate in online multiplayer modes where they can hack into other players’ games. These features add depth and replayability, ensuring that there is always something new to discover in the city of Chicago.
In conclusion, Watch Dogs promises to be a groundbreaking title that pushes the boundaries of what we expect from open-world games. With its intricate setting, complex protagonist, and thought-provoking themes, it offers a rich and immersive experience that will keep players engaged for hours on end. Whether you’re a fan of action, strategy, or narrative-driven games, Watch Dogs has something to offer.
Source Kotaku
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