Psi-Ops: The Mindgate Conspiracy

"Psi Ops: A Fun, Entertaining, Not So-Challenging Game"

My friend first introduced me to Psi-Ops: The Mindgate Conspiracy late one evening. It was a demo and I played around in the Psi-Room, which is just a training area. To me, it was fun and entertaining but after about fifteen minutes of messing around, I felt it was very repetitive. About a month later, I saw a tempting offer: Psi-Ops for 30 bucks with a bonus game. I couldn't resist so I ordered the full game. I've only been playing for a couple days but I've formulated a general opinion of it.

Graphics: 8/10

The cut scene graphics in Psi-Ops are simply amazing. The cut scenes are very smooth and almost astounded me with their amazing graphics. However, the in-game graphics, specifically when you're controlling the main character, Nick Scryer, are average at best. They are sometimes even dull and look a bit out-dated. However, they are easily ignored when you focus on the game's strong points.

Sounds: 9/10

The sounds in Psi-Ops are well produced and almost everything sounds good, from gunfire to soldier's cries. The voice work for Nick Scryer and other main characters is well done but unfortunately, some of their lines are a bit unrealistic. But besides that, the sounds are good.

Story: 9/10

Psi-Ops shines a bit in this category. The story moves at a fast pace and is pretty interesting, delivering some cool characters and conflicts. You, as Nick Scryer, are desperately trying to unravel the mysterious plan that The Movement, an organization run by a ruthless man known as The General, has in store. Sometimes, the game even unfolds like a movie or book, where you are confused for a while and understand as you progress.

Gameplay: 9/10

Psi-Ops is a breath of fresh air. The game is both original and fun. Of course, you will encounter many enemies throughout the game and you'll be able to use various psychic powers to defeat them. These include telekinesis, the ability to move objects (or humans), pyrokinesis, the ability to generate fire, remote viewing, the ability to see through doors and walls, and various others. What makes Psi-Ops incredibly easy is that each power is assigned to a button and you won't have to be switching constantly between powers. These powers give the game lots of replay value, as there as endless ways to eliminate enemies. You can light them up on fire, throw them into various objects, take control of their body and force them to commit suicide (which, may I add, can sometimes lead to incredibly funny results). However, unfortunately, the game really establishes telekinesis as the most favored power since the others take away a lot of your psi power or are simply un-fun to use. There are several puzzles in the game but none are hard to master and the game is mostly "get to a certain place" while eliminating enemies throughout your journey.

Overall Score: 8/10

Is Psi-Ops worth buying? It is a bit easy but regardless, it's enormous fun and with the recent $20 dollar price drop, it's probably worth it, especially if you can get it with some kind of bonus gift. I bought it and though I wasn't completely satisfied, I can say without a doubt that I wasn't disappointed. If you're looking for something that is original, easy, and fun, Psi-Ops is the game for you.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 08/29/04