Lost Planet 3 Multiplayer: Fewer Robots, More Akrid

A quick sampling of Lost Planet 3's multiplayer modes reveals a heavy emphasis on cooperative play and a lot of Akrid encounters. Spread across four modes and six maps, new developer Spark Unlimited has created a wide range of ideas, all of which take place in 3 vs. 3 or 5 vs. 5 configurations. And while the core single-player campaign is a prequel, focusing on mining rigs, the more familiar, weaponized Vital Suits can be found and used within some co-op environments.

We recently had a chance to check out two of the four game types. The first, "Scenario," actually creates a different rule set depending on which map players select. Playing on 'Stronghold' creates parameters for an asymmetrical tower defense, where one team attempts to escort machinery into hostile territory while the other attempts to protect its base. In another, "Alpha Lair,"players work together in teams to destroy a giant Akrid to earn points. It's sort of like a football game, if the football is a living, aggressive creature that wants to kill you.

The second mode we tested was called "Akrid Survival," a mix of wave-based creature combat that progressively escalates towards standard team combat. Capcom stressed to us that mixing team elements with Akrid battles was a priority, but plenty of standard multiplayer elements - experience points and upgrades, active and passive abilities, loadouts and in-match rewards that come from both your successes and failures.

Rather than write too much more, we figured we'd just show you both modes and let you see the Lost Planet 3's multiplayer in action. This first video commentary is Scenario mode, featuring the 'Alpha Lair' map and rules.

And here's a commentary video focusing on the Survival mode.

All in all, Lost Planet 3's multiplayer component is a reasonable counterpart to its single player campaign, something that services its world and characters well. Seeing the weaponized mechs return, even just isolated to key maps in specific locations, was a treat as well. Still, there's nothing in here (so far) that really stands out as completely original or entirely different. It's a standard array of third-person action elements in an online setting. But for those of us looking to jump online with some friends and battle Akrid, that's not necessarily a bad thing.

Rich hates cold weather. The thought of even visiting EDN III - with or without Akrid - is absolutely absurd to him. Join Rich on Twitter - @RichIGN - to chat about Lost Planet 3 and all video games. Do it now!!!