F.E.A.R. 3's Dan Hay

Day 1 is taking a new approach to co-op that offers a unique experience. We've developed something called divergent co-op. What this means is that both players have completely different skill sets. While this takes longer to develop and implement, we felt having two unique play styles spoke to the nature of the brothers' relationship.

Point Man has the same skills you've grown accustomed to over the series: weapon proficiency and slow-mo. He is the supersoldier muscle that clears out contingents of soldiers. Fettel, on the other hand, is more ethereal. He can fire psychic blasts, levitate enemies out of cover, and most importantly, possess the bodies of his adversaries. Additionally, alternative paths are set up through the levels for Fettel so he can experience the same area in a completely different manner.

What really turns the tables is how Point Man and Fettel can work together. The depth of strategy offered by these two varying skill sets is impressive. The way Point Man clears out a room is much different than how he tackles the same situation while working with Fettel.

However, Point Man and Fettel have an uneasy alliance and they may not always choose to work together. Whether the players team up to tactically engage the enemy or compete to get the most kills is entirely up to them. There is a wide variety of ways for players to work with or against each other and the game can accommodate both play styles.

Fettel not only has the ability to wield telekinetic blasts, he can also levitate enemies. The levitation comes in handy when the enemy has taken cover because it exposes them for Point Man to take out.

At the same time F.E.A.R. 3 is a shooter and the option to play more aggressively is available to Fettel through the possession mechanic. He can inhabit an enemy's body, even across the battlefield, and wield their weapons.

When the two players work together it can be an impressive sight. Not only are they tactically complimentary, but when the two strategize they become more deadly.

Point Man is the same character you know from F.E.A.R., evolved. His enhanced reflexes give him an edge on the battlefield. There is a wide variety of weapons at his disposal as well which will allow the player to carry what best fits their play style.

What is going to be different is the cover system. Day 1 has crafted a cover system that adds a great deal of depth to the game play without slowing down the combat. You have to remember, F.E.A.R. is known for great A.I. and we are continuing that tradition. Even if you take cover and use it wisely, the enemies are not going to cut you a break. The will try to flank, attack, destroy your cover, or - thanks to new Armacham technology - appear out of thin air next to you. The new cover system allows the player to react to all of these threats seamlessly.

F.E.A.R. 3 is a shooter and that means the game is all about weapons. We developed a great set of weapons that are going to really please the players. We are feverishly working to make sure they look great while feeling and sounding perfect. A lot of fine-tuning is going on to make sure regardless of what weapon you pick up, it feels just right.

We asked ourselves the same question. Imagine this, the environment is literally crumbling around you, Armacham is attacking with full force, and they are wielding some brand new technology to toast you. Alma is in labour and her contractions are causing her paranormal power to spill into reality and bringing horrific creatures with it, and the whole time, fighting right by your side, is your brother who hates you... And is dead. Trust me, it is a very satisfying experience.

We're hard at work to bring you some multiplayer modes that can only be played in the F.E.A.R. universe. I can't elaborate much more at the moment, but I think you're going to like what you see.

Fall 2010.

I hope you can stop by the WB Games booth to see what we have to show.