The Agency: Covert Ops
A cancelled spy MMO with realistic gunplay and agency choice.
The Agency: Covert Ops was a cancelled spy-themed massively multiplayer online shooter developed by Sony Online Entertainment's Seattle studio for Microsoft Windows and PlayStation 3. Production was discontinued on March 31, 2011, following the closure of the Seattle studio.
Quick Facts
- Developer
- SOE Seattle
- Publisher
- Sony Online Entertainment
- Released
- Cancelled
- Genre
- MMO shooter, stealth
- Modes
- Multiplayer
- Platforms
- PlayStation 3, Microsoft Windows
Facts from the source article.
Gameplay
The game was designed as a first-person shooter with the option to switch between third and first person views, and included driving and other vehicular segments. Skill was intended to be the primary factor in player success, though some role-playing game elements were also present. A single shot to the head would instantly kill any player, indicating a realistic shooter approach. Subgames and minigames were planned, including casino games such as Texas hold 'em, which could be played for fun or used to initiate instance missions—for example, losing or winning enough games to draw the attention of an NPC. At the start, players could join one of two agencies that determined mission styles. The United Network of Intelligence and Tactical Experts (U.N.I.T.E) was described as the world's most elite secret agents, specializing in stealth and subterfuge with advanced technology. The Paramilitary Global Operations Network (ParaGON) was a large private army serving various clients, with mercenaries known for unconventional methods. Little was released about the storyline, though it was hinted that one would tie the agencies together.
Development
Developers stated in an interview that 30 frames-per-second was their minimum target frame rate, and they aimed to use all available resolution capabilities of the PS3. Voice communication was planned, and the PS3 hard drive was to be heavily used for content delivery. On March 31, 2011, Sony Online Entertainment announced the closure of its Seattle, Tucson, and Denver studios, cancelling the game. A Facebook application called The Agency: Covert Ops launched in May 2010, featuring missions, mini-games, and the ability to share achievements with Facebook friends; it was taken offline shortly after the game's cancellation.
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