Descent was quite popular on its release. It expanded on the 3D shooting genre by giving players a real 3D environment unlike Doom or Duke Nukem 3D. In this 7-level DEMO version of Descent you must pilot your spaceship through many 3D levels destroying various bad guys along the way.Descent is a groundbreaking first-person shooter (FPS) released in 1995 for DOS. It was developed by Parallax Software and is notable for its 3D, six-degrees-of-freedom (6DOF) gameplay, which set it apart from other FPS titles at the time. Instead of the traditional ground-based movement, Descent allows players to move in all directions within a fully three-dimensional environment, offering a truly immersive and dynamic experience. Six-Degrees-of-Freedom (6DOF) Movement: Unlike traditional FPS games that are confined to two dimensions (up, down, left, right), Descent allows full 3D movement. Players can move up, down, forward, backward, and rotate in all directions. This added freedom of movement was revolutionary for the genre and set Descent apart from other FPS titles of its time. Maze-Like Levels: The game is set in complex, multi-level underground mines or industrial complexes. Each level is filled with narrow corridors, large open areas, traps, and puzzles that require the player to carefully navigate and explore. Levels are interconnected, and players can access different floors and rooms by moving vertically within the environment. This exploration aspect was one of the defining features of Descent. Combat: Players pilot a spaceship, equipped with various weapons, to fight off hostile robots and other enemies. The combat is fast-paced, and players can use weapons like lasers, missiles, and fireball blasts to destroy enemies. The AI-controlled enemies are scattered throughout the levels, and many are equipped with advanced weaponry, creating a challenging environment for the player. Objectives: The main objective of each level is typically to destroy all enemies and complete specific missions like disabling power generators or rescuing hostages. Many levels feature multi-stage objectives that require players to solve puzzles or find hidden paths to progress. Multiplayer Mode: Descent also features multiplayer modes, where players could compete against each other in split-screen or through modem/Internet play. The multiplayer aspect allowed for deathmatch-style combat, adding another layer of excitement and replayability to the game. Atmospheric Sound and Music: The game uses 3D sound to create a tense, immersive atmosphere. Players can hear enemies approaching or shots echoing through the mines, adding to the overall experience. The background music is composed of atmospheric, electronic tracks that help enhance the mood of the various levels.
4/25/2024