After more than 15 years, IO Interactive's cult classic Freedom Fighters has launched on digital marketplaces for the first time. The game quickly became an underground hit when it debuted in 2003. Its engrossing political plot and unique squad-based combat made it a true gem during the sixth console generation. Here's what you should know about the criminally underrated third-person shooter.
Story
Freedom Fighters takes place in an alternate reality where the Soviet Union becomes a dominating global force after World War II. As tensions between the United States and the USSR reach their breaking point, the Soviet Union invades New York City, causing it to fall under communist rule. While the USSR spreads harmful propaganda to the community, a group of courageous rebels forms a resistance movement to combat the regime.
The game follows Chris Stone as he evolves from an urban plumber to a hardened freedom fighter. Chris rises through the ranks of the organization, quickly becoming a key figure within the movement. Players must guide Chris and his small militia of patriots through the perilous streets of New York as they reclaim their city block by block. The rebels must take control of various buildings and establishments to overthrow the tyrannical government.
Reception
Freedom Fighters was critically acclaimed upon launch, receiving praise for its innovative squad-based tactics and incredible sense of immersion. Its realistic depiction of urban warfare mixed with impressive sound production gave players a fast-paced military experience unlike any other. The Russian-influenced soundtrack also heightened the game's poshness. However, great gameplay did not translate to astronomical sales numbers.
While Freedom Fighters received above average reviews from critics and became a favorite among many hardcore gamers, it struggled to find mainstream success. The game is often referred to as a hidden gem that was overshadowed by other military titles upon release. The original Call of Duty and Medal of Honor: Rising Sun came out shortly after Freedom Fighters launched, which could be why it never took off with casual audiences. While Freedom Fighters enjoyed underground stardom, the game fell into obscurity rather quickly with casual gamers.
Re-Release
Gamers can finally revisit Freedom Fighters on PC thanks to IO Interactive re-launching its underrated classic on GOG, Steam and the Epic Game Store, allowing it to be played on modern hardware for the first time. As an added bonus, Freedom Fighters launched at a discounted price. For a limited time, the game will be 33 percent off across all participating platforms, meaning gamers will only need to scrape up $9.99 for this tremendous third-person shooter.
It is important to note that Freedom Fighters is just a re-release, not a remaster. This means IO Interactive hasn't enhanced the game in any way besides upgrading it to play on modern computers. Everything from the graphics to the controls remains the same. While some people might view certain aspects of the game as dated or retro, it still gives players an exhilarating experience that will stick with them for years to come.
Freedom Fighters is arguably one of the most underrated games to come out of the sixth console generation. While its stellar gameplay and enthralling story captivated those who played it, it was overlooked. This rerelease is a chance for the game to finally get the attention it has deserved for almost two decades now, and even if it hasn't been enhanced or upgraded in any way, Freedom Fighters still has its charm and is absolutely worth playing.