Defcon 5 (1995 video game)
A slow-paced blend of strategy and first-person action.
Millennium Interactive’s Defcon 5, a 1995 action-adventure title, launched on PlayStation, Sega Saturn, MS-DOS, and 3DO. Its name comes from the DEFCON system, where level 5 indicates normal peacetime readiness, though popular fiction often confuses this with a high-alert state. The game was first announced as Incoming.
Quick Facts
- Developer
- Millennium Interactive
- Platforms
- PlayStation
- Sega Saturn
- MS-DOS
- 3DO
- Genre
- Action-adventure, first-person shooter
- Modes
- Single-player
Facts from the source article.
Plot
The player character, a cyberneer for the Tyron Corporation, arrives at the deep space mining installation MRP-6F to install automated defence software. The base, built around a crater, houses six defence turrets and support systems. Shortly after arrival, an unknown enemy force attacks, and the player must escape with evidence of the events.
Gameplay
Gameplay resembles the System Shock series, requiring exploration to find items needed for defence and escape. The player fights invaders by deploying defence turrets and using VOS computer terminals to control turrets, load ammunition, inspect damage, deploy combat droids, and manage doors to trap enemies. Directly shooting enemies is discouraged because new waves arrive and kills degrade air quality, which can cause the computer to seal polluted areas; pollution can be cleared by opening doors and is monitored via the terminal's environmental module. The installation comprises two seven-floor towers (administrative and domestic), three hangars, a service level, six turrets, and a control room, linked by the LIMO subway-train system and elevators, allowing alternate routes to avoid enemies.
Reception
Reviewing the PlayStation version, GamePro's Bro' Buzz called it tough, slow, and epic, recommending it to strategy enthusiasts for its VOS interface and challenge, though noting mundane shooting. Maximum objected to its intellectual pace, while IGN gave a 7/10, praising the suspenseful plot and immersive details. Next Generation agreed, citing small details that add up to serious fun. For the Saturn version, Electronic Gaming Monthly praised the story-driven approach and controls despite pixelated graphics, but Sega Saturn Magazine panned it as a poor Doom rip-off with poor graphics and unclear objectives. GamePro's Johnny Ballgame found the slow pacing unenjoyable, noting much time spent wandering empty corridors.
More in Psygnosis Games
Spotted an error? Know more?
Reader corrections go straight into our review queue. Suggest an edit · How this site is sourced