First look: XIII

Ubi Soft showed off XIII at a recent event in Montreal. XIII is an Unreal-engine powered first-person shooter that uses cel-shaded graphics in a modern-day setting, giving it a unique and distinguishable look. The game is based on the comic book series of the same name, which was created by Jean Van Hamme and is very popular in France. The plot focuses on a conspiracy inspired by the assassination of John F. Kennedy, but the names of those involved have been changed, and instead of the 1960s, the story takes place in the 1980s. Players assume the role of a man called "XIII," who has lost all his memories, so he uses a tattoo he finds on his body for a name. Certain story elements are told in impressive-looking black-and-white flashback sequences. There are also three other characters who play a major role in the game.

Another interesting aspect is that the game will have online play for both PC and the Xbox, but there will also be offline multiplayer modes in the other console versions that support up to four players using a split screen. According to Ubi Soft, the inclusion of online play in the PS2 version depends on when Sony will have its network ready. Expect to see more of the game at the upcoming E3 in Los Angeles.

XIII is scheduled for release in early 2003 on the GameCube, PlayStation 2, Xbox, and PC.