Terra Nova

Gameplay

As a tactical first-person shooter, Terra Nova focuses on combat and takes place from a character's eye view in a three-dimensional (3D) graphical environment.The protagonist wears powered battle armor (PBA) that features lock-on targeting, jumpjets for limited flight, infrared and zoomed vision, and a rechargeable energy shield that protects against attacks. The player uses a freely movable mouse cursorto aim weapons and manipulate the heads-up display (HUD) interface.[1] As with Looking Glass Technologies' earlier game System Shock,[3] the HUD contains three "Multi-Function Displays" (MFDs). These screens may be configured to display tactical information, such as squad command menus, maps and weapon statistics.
The player is usually accompanied by up to three artificially intelligent squadmates, who may be given tactical orders such as holding a position, taking cover or rushing enemies. Squadmates may be commanded as a group or individually; for example, one half of a squad may be used to distract enemies while the other half attacks an objective. Each squad member specializes in weapons, reconnaissance, repairs, demolitions or electronics. Those in the latter four categories may be given special commands, such as repairing a teammate's armor or setting explosive charges.[1] During missions, squad members radio in enemy sightings and status assessments.[1][5]
The game takes place in 37 missions. Each begins with a briefing that describes such details as objectives, squad size and enemies.[1] Objectives range from rescues and assaults to reconnaissance photography.[6][7] Additional missions—whose contents may be selected by the player—are available through the game's "Random Scenario Builder". Before undertaking missions, the player outfits the squad and protagonist with PBA suits and equipment.[1] The three types of PBA—Scout, Standard and Heavy—vary in ability; for example, the Scout armor is fast and light, while the Heavy armor is slow and powerful.[6] Each may be fitted with weapons and an "Auxiliary Suit Function" (ASF); the latter ranges from increased jumpjet power to deployable automatic turrets.[5][6] Only a small amount of equipment is available at the outset, but more becomes accessible as the game progresses.[6] Between missions, the player may read e-mails, news and military files, and a "library" that details the game's setting.[1]