Tech Blog

[#1]

A little while ago I wrote about Gears of War III being probably this year's most hotly anticipated game. And, you know, I wrote that without even beginning to think about what my most anticipated game of the year was. And then this week's news reminded me: It's Deus Ex: Human Revolution, and it hits on August 23rd.

New studio Eidos Montreal's take on the legendary RPG series which only managed two installments (only one of which is actually fondly remembered; the original) before the development team was dissolved--it's incredible, really, to consider this game series came from Ion Storm--Deus Ex: Human Revolution really does look like the sequel fans of the series have been waiting for, offering the series' open-ended action RPG play but this time (perhaps controversially) on the Xbox 360 and PS3 rather than just the PC (the first sequel, of course, being a bit of a failure because it had been so "consolized.")

This new title is a prequel to the beloved original title, and tells the story of Adam Jensen, a man cybernetically augmented against his choice who "finds himself in the middle of a global conspiracy to which he holds the key."

"We are extremely excited and proud of Deus Ex: Human Revolution and cannot wait to finally let gamers experience this unique and captivating game," said Stephane D'Astous, general manager of Eidos-Montreal. "The team has worked incredibly hard these last few years to create an unforgettable universe which introduces franchise fans and new players alike to this powerful vision of the future, where the choices you make create your own personal gameplay experience."

Personally, I can't wait, and if anything August 23rd is simply too long to wait. The Deus Ex series is known for its open-ended gameplay--you can take on levels whichever way you want and augment your hero to suit your play style--but Eidos Montreal has also outdone themselves with the visual style of the game, going for a "Cyber Renaissance" setting that genuinely blends near future and Renaissance era styles into something unique and compelling.

Anyway, enough blabbing. You can pre-order the title on Xbox 360, PS3 and PC at Future Shop, and also in the shiny fancy "Augmented Editions" which includes an exclusive bonus DVD featuring a 44- minute “making of” special, game soundtrack, motion-comic (adapted from DC’s official series), the E3 trailer and animated storyboard, and a 40-page art book.