Undercover Brother

User Rating: 5.5 | Prison Break: The Conspiracy PS3
Prison Break: The Conspiracy is a stealth game which focuses on the first season of the show, offering a different perspective on the Fox River escape. The company has sent Agent Tom Paxton undercover to make sure Burrows is killed. The plot is nicely interwoven, and exploits sections of the show to great effect, like where Sucre moved to when he left Schofield's cell. Paxton has smuggled a voice recorder into prison, and uses it to update objectives, but in clear sight of other inmates. This can ruin any sense of realism. During an early mission for John Abruzzi, he literally turns his back and starts a dictation, revealing his entire plan.

Visuals are functional, and most of the characters are represented. Some are nothing like their series counterparts. Dr. Tancredi and Charles Westmorland are embarrassing highlights. Audio is a strong aspect; each section ends like an advert break and music from the show is well implemented, although some of the voice work sounds distorted and badly recorded.

There are some nice touches. Split screen moments are well designed and pile on the tension, and scripted events are thoughtfully presented. The cover system works well. A peek feature when hiding in closets is nicely designed. The ability to remove screws to cause power cuts or open air vents is a solid mechanic; the faster the task is performed the more noise is created, which alerts guards to your presence. Difficulty affects guard's alertness, and when playing on hard, this can seem woefully inconsistent. QTE's are included, and whilst the execution is above average, they require insane reaction times on harder difficulties, fight reversals in particular.

Fighting is shoddy, and takes some acclimatisation. There is a noticeable delay between button prompt and on-screen animation, which makes this section unnecessarily frustrating. Underground fights expand the concept, battling increasingly difficult enemies for money. But the system feels like an afterthought, as money can only be used to purchase tattoos, which are offered from the same character. Weight lifting and punch bag training are mini games, and improve the otherwise pointless fighting level. A 2 player Vs mode is also included, and functions as a fighting game. But not many will be prepared to tolerate it, especially with so many quality multiplayer titles.

Despite some flawed gameplay, Prison Break: The Conspiracy is entertaining while it lasts. However, it's for the fans only, and can be completed within hours.