Introduction

Picture this: you’re a suave spy in a shiny suit, preparing to rip an envelope from the hands of a rival spy while both of you are popping out of a holographic disguise, looking like a non-playable character in a slightly glitchy video game. Welcome to Deceive Inc., a fresh entry into the FPS genre that takes stealth and deception to a whole new level, making every match feel like a ‘who-dunnit’ game show with lots of capers and all the thrilling twists of a beloved heist film. In this review, we’ll gauge whether this game is a James Bond-esque triumph or just another uninvited guest at the party.

Gameplay

In what seems like a delicious mix of hero shooters and extraction shooters, Deceive Inc. tasks players with pilfering a package while juggling a myriad of sneaky mechanics that make every encounter feel like a complex chess game, only with more explosions and far less dignity. As spies, players are kitted out with a nifty holographic projector enabling them to disguise as NPCs around the maps – rival spies will have their eyes peeled, but using this feature can help you slip through undetected. Just remember, no trigger happiness; firing your weapon reveals your true identity, and you don’t want to blow your cover faster than a spy movie plot twist. To grab the coveted package, players must disable vault terminals scattered throughout the map. Doing so requires strategic planning and a keen sense of timing. Not to mention, camouflaging as a VIP character allows access to buildings marked 'DO NOT ENTER' – because really what screams 'I’m totally not a thief!' more than wearing a flashy name tag? However, if you get too cocky as a VIP, prepare for the inevitable awkward glances from other players who are likely to find you suspiciously shiny amongst the ordinary AI characters. Gather that high-tier loot, then escape with your life intact—if you can. Deceive Inc. sports a surprisingly varied roster of eleven characters, each with their unique playstyles categorized into four classes: Vanguards, Trackers, Scoundrels, and Disruptors. Imagine a mishmash of styles ranging from well-rounded fighters to crafty troublemakers. Each character comes with specific skills, akin to a light RPG feel while still being a shooter. Want to fire a shotgun while hurling Chaos Grenades? Check! Prefer to shoot from a distance with a sniper rifle while mocking your opponents? You won’t be disappointed. The character traits encourage players to rethink their strategies and swap roles throughout matches, ensuring variety and synergy.

Graphics

Graphically, Deceive Inc. creates an atmosphere that’s equal parts sleek and gritty; you’ll feel every spy cliché as you stealthily navigate through glamorous and shadowy locales reminiscent of old-school spy films. Characters have a polished design—some showing off high-fashion outfits intended for that hidden sophistication. The game runs smoothly on PS5, leveraging the console’s power to deliver sharp textures and excellent animations. While not incredibly groundbreaking, the art direction seems to revel in its playful aesthetics, sprucing up each map and set piece for an enticingly vibrant spy universe that feels right without taking itself too seriously. And hey, the menus are a breeze, unlike others that feel like trying to crack a safe in real life.

Conclusion

In a world where FPS games often lean heavily on straightforward run-and-gun mechanics, Deceive Inc. adds a much-needed layer of strategy and deception, asking players to think instead of simply react. With enjoyable mechanics, well-designed characters, and aesthetic visuals, it carves out a niche for itself in the crowded shooter space. However, some issues, like hit registration glitches and a bit of a learning curve, keep it from hitting the high notes consistently. Still, if your idea of a good time involves a heisty blend of friendship, betrayal, and backstabbing chuckles—both literal and metaphorical—then strap on your best tuxedo and dive into Deceive Inc. Overall? A solid experience, but perhaps one you'd want to enjoy in company to fully appreciate the riot of mayhem and laughter.

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