ByteSlinger wrote:If the trailer is any indication of game play, this is just like the original portal, but in a "cooperative" mode. Instead of it being a glorified FPS, you'll know have to solve the puzzle rooms using various avatars that will need to be in the right place at the right time. Yes, you'll have to think a little more, and your timing will probably be more critical, but the question is this: will we be frustrated by trying to handle multiple avatars in a timed basis, or will that enhance game play.
Additionally - is it possible for two people to play co-cp, and via Skype or Xfire or some other VOIP messenger , coordinate moves to solve a level?
Portal 2 has the potential to be either a terrific sequel - or a tremendous flop. I hope for the first, but I'll let others play it before I plunk down money for it....
One thing to note, if you look at the 8 or so trailers on the thinkwithportals site, is that a lot of the gameplay is solo, but involves the use of new technologies that were not given to us in the first Portal. For example, the propulsion gel, in combination with your handheld Portal device, allows you to coat choice locations with the propulsion gel, which allows you to build up great speed. Naturally, with a Portal, you can redirect yourself as necessary to speed past obstacles and move throughout the facility. The new technologies in particular were quite interesting, and look to be a great mental challenge to master.
Since we were well-trained on how to think with portals in Portal 1, I think they will build on those skills to involve these new technologies. Also, the introduction of Wheatley, an AI companion, gives you one more nonviolent tool to utilize in your quest for freedom. It looks as though the original theme of Portal, that being using nonviolent technology to stop GLaDOS will allow the original appeal of the game to shine through again.
As far as multiplayer goes, I'm assuming you're referring to the trailer on the front page. That appears to be a different play mode of the game. In that mode, you appear to play as bots, while the single-player campaign brings you back as Chell. She appears to have re-entered Aperature Laboratories, which has decayed somewhat and has become overgrown with vegetation. However, the technologies there are still mostly intact, and we will even get to revisit some of the old test chambers we were in before, placing a new spin on an old level from the previous game.
If I were you, Byte, I'd strongly recommend checking out the videos on the Media page (handy link
here) to check out Chell's return. I'm sure you will be quite happy with what you see!