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August 2012

Unit 13

This is a PS Vita game which, I believe, was available at launch in 2012. Sadly, the developer of this game, Zipper Interactive, was shut down soon after. It's a third person shooter, but it places a heavy emphasis on playing very precisely - often via stealth.

I think Unit 13 is quite under-rated by critics. You can play as one of 5 different specialists over about 30 levels. You can earn up to a 5 star rating on each level, which is determined by your score. The score system is somewhat complex, but, generally, you get higher scores if you can create long combos in your play-style. For example, if you get a stealth kill you have about 5 seconds to get another stealth kill to keep your combo going - with your score multiplying each time. The same is true for head-shots, explosions, sniper rifle kills, and so on. Some characters are better at stealth and others at using machine guns, so there's always a way to beat a level using a different play style. In some missions, including new ones created every day, you need only to take out a high-profile target - with a decrease in points for each additional person you kill. I thought the scoring system was a pretty fun game mechanic and enjoyed trying to get top marks on each level. 

The story makes sense, but it's not really memorable. I seem to remember something about needing to take down some terrorists, but that's about it.

The controls work very well, mostly because the Vita has great dual analogue sticks that are perfect for shooters. Overall, I'd say you should give this game a try!

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