E3 2018: Strange Brigade rewards you for exploring each map
Strange Brigade levels combine alternate pathways, hidden traps, and collectibles to make each playthrough an exciting challenge.
So far, Strange Brigade sounds like a great twist on the Sniper Elite: Nazi Zombie Army model, swapping zombies for mummies and applying a heavy 1930s pulp feel to the experience. Rebellion Developments already shared a trailer last week to highlight co-op gameplay, but now the studio has an E3 video showcasing how each map rewards you for exploring its secrets.
Drawing from the same pulp serials that inspired Indiana Jones, Strange Brigade follows a band of heroes working to stop the plans of an ancient Egyptian Witch Queen. Much like Rebellion's previous Zombie Army series, players can experience the campaign in single-player or co-op, facing down mummies and giant scorpions with friends.
In the featured map, players can choose between pathways to reach objectives - even splitting up to cover more options. Strange Brigade rewards this exploration with collectibles, treasure chests, and hidden surprises. Of course, you'll also need to watch out for traps and enemies that could leap out as you approach.
One example are Puzzle Doors, which are scattered across the map. The example from this video activates a pipe mini-game, which can be completed to open the door and reveal a relic. Collecting six relics will unlock amulet powers that grant combat abilities above and beyond your weapons. It's also possible to find map specific collectibles or treasure chests with prototype weapons - all of which encourage you to replay a map to find everything.
Rebellion notes that exploration is entirely optional - if you want to play Strange Brigade as a straightforward co-op shooter, that's fine. In fact, that may be the easier approach, since puzzles off the beaten path can be more difficult than mandatory examples. At the same time, these amulet powers and prototype weapons can be immensely useful for defeating powerful enemies.
Strange Brigade launches for PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One on August 28, 2018.