Extraction Point almost makes it worth a buy. Almost.
-Extraction Point
Extraction Point feels like a real expansion pack and a worthy continuation of the original game. The combat is just as satisfying and the horror scenes occur more often and are just as blood-chilling. Extraction Point's fifth and final interval is my favorite in the series; coincidentally my most frightening experience out of all of the game's entries is found in this level. There is quite a bit of recycled content and the level design is still rather drab. There are some new weapons, which is always welcome, but they don't really add to the experience. Overall it is a very well done expansion to an awesome game.
-Perseus Mandate
This is where Timegate decided they could cash in on the F.E.A.R. moniker and completely crap out in the quality department. Perseus Mandate doesn't even attempt to be scary until well into the game and even then, the genuinely creepy moments are overshadowed by a seeming disinterest on the part of the developer, and at times some situations come off as corny; they seemed to be trying too hard to create a scary atmosphere. The story is nonsensical and the new weapons are underwhelming. The amount of recycled content is unforgivable- the player even spends an entire level inside Armacham's HQ: a level from the first game. The game itself just feels like filler. There are some cool moments in Perseus Mandate; it's too bad that they are surrounded by junk and filler.
If Project Origin has piqued your interest and you want to get into the F.E.A.R. series before it's release, go ahead and rent/buy F.E.A.R. If you're looking at F.E.A.R. Files for an expansion of the story, you're better off waiting for Project Origin, the series' true sequel: F.E.A.R. Files' story isn't considered canon. If you've played F.E.A.R. and want some more of it's stellar gameplay, feel free to rent F.E.A.R. Files- just don't expect to be blown away.