Silencer (video game)

Silencer was a multiplayer-only video game released by Mind Control Software for online play using World Opponent Network technology.[1][2]

Silencer
Developer(s)Mind Control Software / Andrew Leker
Publisher(s)WON
Platform(s)Windows
Release1998
Genre(s)Platformer, Shooter
Mode(s)Multiplayer
Static Silencer agent hacking a large terminal

History

Silencer was developed by independent video game developer Mind Control Software and released as beta beta software in 1998 for Windows. It was the second game by Mind Control software, founded by industry veteran Andrew Leker in 1994.[3]

In May 2001, the beta game[4] was pulled from online play when won.net went offline and development ended.

On September 17, 2007, Arsia Mons, a veteran group who reversed engineered the software, released an installer that allowed easy playability. The server binaries were unstable and required bug fixing. The lobby servers were completely taken offline shortly after.

In 2013, zSILENCER was created as a replacement for the defunct Silencer beta using the existing asset files. It is now a "99% accurate" clone. The lobby server is open and remains active (verified October 2014). The development happens now with the source code open on GitHub without a specified license.[5] In addition to Windows, the game was ported on Mac, Linux, Ouya console,[6] and the OpenPandora.[7]

Story

It is the near future on Mars, and the government is up to no good. As a result, there are powers that are trying to overthrow the government, known as Silencers. They are hackers and brokers of secrets, and they are not friendly to each other. The game takes place at a base called Arsia Mons.

Gameplay

Silcencer combines elements of sidescroller games with other Sci-Fi action games such as Crusader: No Remorse. In the game, there are multiple competing agencies that send agents into the field to hack public computer terminals, with the goal of exposing the Martian government's secrets. Agents in the same agency could work as a team, and agents could buy a variety of items and weapons to help their team excel or to hinder an opponent.

When you begin, you'll join one of five rebel agencies, fighting with other members of your agency team to collect three top secrets. The first team to do so wins the scenario.

Each team's leader creates a door to a base, which has resources for healing, purchases and storing secrets. Silencers travel throughout the playfield in search of green-lit computer devices, which can be hacked by pressing the space bar. Silencers are rewarded for any hacked information they carry back to their base. Money can then be spent with the use of the computer display to the right. In addition to any regular data, they also gain information that helps them track down a top secret. Once all nine categories of the top secret have been discovered, the Silencer will learn the location of a computer terminal in the playfield that will be storing the top secret for a short time. The Silencer must then be moved to that location, gain the top-secret (which is automatic), and then make it back to the base and deposit the top secret to the far right computer memory bank.

Agencies

There are several agencies in the game with specializations which give them advantages and disadvantages: Noxis, high in endurance; Static, excellent radar technology; Caliber, best purchases available and secret info; Lazarus, high-tech cult that worships rebirth; Black Rose, an elite agency that always works alone.

Technology

The number next to each technology represents the amount of slots they use. Some technologies are agency specific, among them Laser, Rocket, Flamer Ammo, Poison, Security Pass, Health Pack, Virus, Lazarus Tract, E. M. P. Bomb, Shaped Bomb, Plasma Bomb, Plasma Detonator, Fixed Cannon, Flare, Camera, Base Door, Base Defense, Insider Info, Neutron Bomb.

Disguise is an important feature as it will allow the Silencer to pass unnoticed in areas with guards, robots and defense lasers. Note that firing any weapon or being shot will immediately end a Silencer's disguise.

The jet pack can be used for about five seconds at a time before needing to be recharged. The duration of the jetpack can be upgraded for increased air time.

See also
  • Oasis another IGF-awarded game by Mind Control Software

References
  1. the_road_to_the_igf_mind_control on gamasutra.com by Tim Turner (September 26, 2005)
  2. resurrection-interview on ign.com by Tal Blevins (28 Jun 1999)
  3. about at mind-control.com
  4. FAQ at silencer.8k.com
  5. zSILENCER on GitHub
  6. silencer on gamerankings
  7. zsilencer on repo.openpandora.org
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