It was 1996 and the gaming world was on the cusp of a revolution. 3D graphics were becoming the norm, and first-person shooters were quickly gaining popularity. Amongst the sea of games vying for attention was a little-known title called Strife. Developed by Rogue Entertainment and published by Velocity, Strife was a unique blend of first-person shooter and role-playing game.
The story of Strife revolves around a character known as the “Sige,” who is caught in the middle of a war between two factions: the Order and the Front. The Order is a tyrannical regime that has taken over the world, while the Front is a rebellion fighting for freedom. As the Sige, players must navigate through a post-apocalyptic world filled with mutants, cyborgs, and other dangers as they attempt to aid the Front in overthrowing the Order.
Despite its compelling story and innovative gameplay, Strife was largely overlooked upon its release. Many gamers at the time were more interested in the flashy graphics and fast-paced action of other first-person shooters, and Strife’s more methodical and RPG-like elements were seen as a turn-off.
However, those who did take the time to play Strife found a truly unique and engrossing experience. The game’s blend of first-person shooter and RPG elements created a sense of immersion and player agency that was truly ahead of its time. The player’s choices had a real impact on the game’s story and ending, and the game’s open-ended nature allowed for multiple playthroughs with different outcomes.
But with the game’s poor sales and the passage of time, it became clear that a sequel would likely never be made. Strife’s legacy lived on in the hearts of those who played it, but for the majority of gamers, it remained a footnote in gaming history.
But will we ever see another Strife game? With the current trend of remakes and remasters, it’s always possible that Strife could see a resurgence in popularity. Its unique blend of gameplay and story is still just as compelling today as it was in 1996, and there’s no doubt that a new generation of gamers would appreciate its innovative approach. Until then, Strife remains one of the most underrated games ever made and a true hidden gem in the world of gaming.
