Concord: Sony's Ambitious Multiplayer Venture Blends Familiar Tropes with Surprising Depth

When Sony's Helldivers 2 launched earlier this year, it was met with skepticism. However, the game's unique co-op experience and Starship Troopers-inspired tone quickly won over players, becoming a surprise hit. Now, Sony is back with its second attempt to break into the multiplayer market: Concord, a 5v5 hero shooter set in a neon sci-fi universe.

Concord: Blending Familiar Tropes with Unexpected Depth

A Familiar Formula with a Twist

Concord, set to release on August 20th, is a 5v5 multiplayer hero shooter that draws inspiration from a variety of popular titles in the genre. With its selection of 16 unique "Freegunners" (heroes) at launch, the game offers a familiar formula of tank-like characters, healers, and damage-dealers. However, Concord sets itself apart by blending these archetypes in unexpected ways, creating a melting pot of ideas that, while not entirely original, offers a fresh take on the hero shooter formula.

Simplicity Meets Depth

One of Concord's standout features is the relatively low skill floor for its Freegunners. While each character falls into a specific role, their toolkits and abilities are straightforward to grasp, making it easy for players to jump in and start contributing. However, the true depth of the game lies in the synergies between these abilities and the potential for mastering each Freegunner's unique playstyle.

Mastering the Freegunners

As players experiment with different Freegunners, they'll discover the nuances of each character's movement, weapons, and abilities. Take Roka, for example, a Freegunner who can hover in the air with a jetpack and unleash devastating rocket barrages. Initially, players may struggle to find their footing, but by embracing Roka's aerial playstyle and combining her abilities with the game's dodge mechanic, they can quickly become a force to be reckoned with.

Teamwork and Synergy

The depth of Concord's gameplay extends beyond individual Freegunners, as players begin to recognize the potential for team compositions and ability synergies. By coordinating with teammates and understanding how different Freegunners' abilities complement each other, players can create potent strategies that can overwhelm unprepared opponents. This emphasis on teamwork and synergy sets Concord apart from more individualistic hero shooters, adding an extra layer of depth to the experience.

Visuals and Production Values

Concord's stunning visuals and production values are another highlight of the game. The neon sci-fi setting, coupled with the unique character designs and fluid animations, create a visually captivating experience. The attention to detail in the game's sound design and overall polish further contribute to the sense of high-quality craftsmanship that Firewalk and Sony have poured into this project.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the depth and polish of Concord's gameplay, the game faces some significant challenges. As a new IP, it will need to compete in an already crowded multiplayer shooter market, where players demand constant content updates and new features. Additionally, the game's price tag, rather than a free-to-play model, may be a barrier for some players.However, if Firewalk and Sony are willing to support Concord with a steady stream of new Freegunners, maps, and modes, the game's unique blend of simplicity and depth could find a loyal following. The potential for players to truly master individual Freegunners and discover powerful team synergies is a compelling hook that sets Concord apart from its more formulaic competitors.Ultimately, Concord may not offer the same level of originality as upcoming shooters like Fragpunk and Exoborne, but its solid gameplay foundation and high production values make it a worthy contender in the crowded multiplayer landscape. With the right support and continued development, Concord could carve out a niche for itself as a refreshing take on the hero shooter genre.