Alpha Protocol

 PC
User Score
7.5

Generally favorable reviews- based on 603 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 394 out of 603
  2. Mixed: 131 out of 603
  3. Negative: 78 out of 603
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  1. JamesDrawsThngs
    Sep 8, 2020
    7
    Alpha Protocol is a great example of missed potential. A game that was wildly ambitious, in a setting that not many have attempted up to that point, but that ambition couldn’t be fully realized for a variety of reasons, even with deadline extensions. Alpha Protocol had very steep competition to deal with the year of its release, with Mass Effect 2 being the most apt comparison as they areAlpha Protocol is a great example of missed potential. A game that was wildly ambitious, in a setting that not many have attempted up to that point, but that ambition couldn’t be fully realized for a variety of reasons, even with deadline extensions. Alpha Protocol had very steep competition to deal with the year of its release, with Mass Effect 2 being the most apt comparison as they are both 3rd Person RPG games with cover shooter mechanics. AP suffers from an uninteresting presentation, bugged mechanics and laughable AI. However, what helps separate AP apart from its peers is in its use of choice, and this was the most laudable feature that most can agree on. It’s a game that is unquestionably jank, and yet I can’t help but enjoy it, if only for its ambition.

    You play as Michael Thorton, an agent taken in by the mysterious Alpha Protocol organization in order to stop a terrorist plot in the Middle East. Events transpire that cast Michael as rogue, and now he must uncover a deeper global conspiracy and prevent it from turning into full scale war. If there was any one reason to play this game, it would be for its story and characters. It’s a surprisingly intriguing narrative, one that certainly echoes the feeling of Jason Bourne and, to a lesser extent, James Bond. Each character is uniquely defined and entertaining or some way, and the voice acting is solid across the board. For as many problems as AP has gone through, it manages to deliver one of the best uses of choice and consequence I have seen in a video game, arguably more effective than Mass Effect. For one, the dialogue system only lasts so long on screen, forcing you to make quick fire decisions for how you interact with certain characters and can even be the difference between life and death for them. You have a few personality types to select as Thorton, from Suave to Professional to Intimidating, and how you interact with characters will determine whether they are going to help you or become a thorn in your side. There’s no morality system, either. Not everything is as it seems, and there are various shades of gray at play. While some of the outcomes are purely contextual, a lot can lead to radically different scenarios that change up your experience, making for some incredibly strong replay value.

    That same level of quality, sadly, does not apply to the gameplay and presentation. It’s a mission based 3rd Person shooter with elements of stealth gameplay and RPG mechanics. You pick your specialized class (which can lead to unique dialogues) and set your points toward things like weapons, health, gadgets, stealth, etc. There’s a really good amount of variety in customization, so that checks out. Core gameplay and stealth, on the other hand, do not. The shooting is functional, but you will be faced with either dodgy hit detection, weapons not damaging enemies as much as they should, or both. Getting into cover works fine, but not being able to vault over cover is a little frustrating. Enemy AI is all over the place. One minute they’re mindlessly gunning at you out in the open, not even bothering to search for cover, while the next minute they’re so hyper aware that they can hear a pin drop from a mile away, and they will just immediately bomb rush you and ruin your stealth run. Even then, stealth isn’t really a requirement, nor is it any better than just going gun-ho. Boss fights on Normal or Hard difficulty range from annoying to outright frustrating in design. The game also just has this general lack of polish. There’s broken animations, clipping, visual blemishes like texture tearing. The game as a whole doesn’t look too stellar. Character models look fine, but the environments are remarkably bland. Some of the musical tracks are nice, but most are forgettable and blend into the background.

    AP is not grand, Espionage vision that Obsidian wanted to deliver, but nonetheless they still managed to impress me. Despite the troubled development, this could have ended up far worse. If you are a fan of games like Mass Effect, and you don’t mind the extra jank, this is an easy recommendation. Sadly, your only choice in playing this game nowadays is through consoles as the PC version was pulled from Steam some time ago, so just keep that in mind.    … Expand
  2. whitespider999
    Feb 17, 2012
    7
    Obsidian seem to do better when they fail at ambition (Fallout new vegas, Alpha protocol, Kotor 2, and many others) rather than succeed at a polished safe game (dungeon siege 3 comes to mind). Yes, the developers make flawed games. However let's look at FNV for a moment, it's my favorite fallout game. And yes, it crashes and glitches and breaks. However it's complicated and ambitious, itObsidian seem to do better when they fail at ambition (Fallout new vegas, Alpha protocol, Kotor 2, and many others) rather than succeed at a polished safe game (dungeon siege 3 comes to mind). Yes, the developers make flawed games. However let's look at FNV for a moment, it's my favorite fallout game. And yes, it crashes and glitches and breaks. However it's complicated and ambitious, it has detail and quirk. Alpha protocol has it's own breed of ambition. A more subtle kind. What it does with decision making, rpg systems, and genre mixing is engaging and bold. However unlike new vegas, it feels like a budget game. The movement feels akward, the animation feels akward, the action feels arkward. In a pre-mass effect world, people would be more forgiving. However in this climate of action-rpg melding, xp systems in action games, etc. You have the action fans come in and instantly judge it for what they expect it to be. Rather than what it is. And that's not their fault either. What the game truly want's to be is a little hidden. In the end it's a role playing game - and taken as that, the clumsiness can be forgiven with persistence from the player. However if you are easily offput by production values and a budget feel - you will have already stopped playing this game. And that's a shame, because it's got a great choice system at it's heart.… Expand
  3. Rich246
    Dec 29, 2012
    7
    This game is highly underrated, worth ever penny I paid for it, RPG, Action and a story that YOU decide, play as you will, your loss or gain, it will change as you play.
  4. Beardmonkey
    Jan 13, 2012
    7
    This might not be the most polished game out there, but for some reason I found myself having a lot of fun playing this. Even the dialogue sequences had me hooked.
  5. Mouse
    Jan 3, 2012
    7
    Any game that makes you think twice about killing, and later regret it needs to be played by any and all gamers. The story is unoriginal, clearly left-wing-bias (not to say it's wrong), dialog is rather hit-or-miss, combat is formulaic and the third person perspective kills me every time. But the stealth is in the top lists, character variety is awesome, and as I mentioned, you will regretAny game that makes you think twice about killing, and later regret it needs to be played by any and all gamers. The story is unoriginal, clearly left-wing-bias (not to say it's wrong), dialog is rather hit-or-miss, combat is formulaic and the third person perspective kills me every time. But the stealth is in the top lists, character variety is awesome, and as I mentioned, you will regret some of the more radical decisions most games throw at you like Saturday morning pancakes in a country restaurant. And if you really like looking deep into something, you'll see an underlying philosophical theme of loyalty, orders, and "the mission". But you do have to dig intellectually for that part.… Expand
  6. ibitato
    Sep 12, 2013
    7
    This game is a bit underrated.
    It has seveere flaws on movement cover system and de enemy AI it's just dumb
    Aside from that, the story is good, graphics are ok (specially if you add SweetFX) and the missions are just long enough to have fun and not find them repetitive or boring. Mini games are well, just there.The lockpicking minigame works fine but the hacking onw with keyboard    This game is a bit underrated.
    It has seveere flaws on movement cover system and de enemy AI it's just dumb
    Aside from that, the story is good, graphics are ok (specially if you add SweetFX) and the missions are
    just long enough to have fun and not find them repetitive or boring.
    Mini games are well, just there.The lockpicking minigame works fine but the hacking onw with
    keyboard and mouse is terrible.
    If you can bet this game cheap,that is the case nowadays, and it gets on sale a lot, i recommend buying it.
    As for replayability, I really don't think the game will encourage you to play again once you finish it once,
    even for different character progression    … Expand
  7. themediocritic
    Apr 2, 2020
    6
    A 2020 Review - Alpha Protocol (PC, 2010)

    Score: 6/10 Mediocrity Score: Mediocrity on a Good Day. While taking it slightly out of context - Christian Donlan with Eurogamer describes it best, "[Alpha Protocol is] a contemporary super-spy mod of Mass Effect...". Tags: A few words or tags that come to mind are: entertaining, anticlimactic, buggy, bittersweet. Avg. Time to beat: 13    A 2020 Review - Alpha Protocol (PC, 2010)

    Score: 6/10
    Mediocrity Score: Mediocrity on a Good Day.
    While taking it slightly out of context - Christian Donlan with Eurogamer describes it best, "[Alpha Protocol is] a contemporary super-spy mod of Mass Effect...".

    Tags: A few words or tags that come to mind are: entertaining, anticlimactic, buggy, bittersweet.

    Avg. Time to beat: 13 hours
    Quickest Speedrun: 1 hour, 39 minutes

    Ten years after its release, Alpha Protocol still sneaks by with a passing grade. A spy thriller, action role-playing game from Obsidian Entertainment casts Michael Thorton as the spy protagonist. Diving deeper into the world, you'll be split between safe houses in Taipei, Rome, and Moscow where you'll execute various missions. While I found this title to be quite buggy and shallow in some respects, it still managed to entertain and amuse its way into my recommended list - even if narrowly. Many accounts have detailed the many missteps between Obsidian and Sega, but ultimately lack of direction and organization is what led to this release not being more of a slam dunk. Alpha Protocol has entertaining gameplay and the narrative, characters, and dialogue hold up well. Unfortunately where it sags down is in its lack of depth. Many components or aspects of the game either feel shallow and unfinished, or appear to be directly lifted and shifted in from other games (like Mass Effect in terms of leveling up, skill progression, and combat). I feel much today about this game as I did the first time I played it. And In a way, it's satisfying to see that my opinions on some things don't change through the years. I just wish in the case of Alpha Protocol, they weren't so bittersweet.

    Pros:
    - Character progression and leveling are rewarding and leave you excited to play further.
    - Shooting the AI like fish in a barrel. It's also a barrel of fun.
    - Reputation system makes conversation and dialogue choices all the more interesting.
    - While minor - cool thematic settings, locations, and safe houses. They breathe some extra life into the game.
    - Great and fitting characters. While there are some exceptions, most play their part well and add an extra bit of intrigue.
    - Unique concept we don't see enough of. Spy action RPG.

    Cons:
    - AI is absolutely dreadful and brain dead.
    - Unfulfilling ending conclusion. Especially with the characters outside of Michael.
    - Dialogue options can feel shallow and limited. The responses based on options can be a bit off.
    - The main character, Michael Thorton. I just don't like him.
    - Bugs & Crashing are a present and occurred numerous times.
    - Limitations of stealth and the options to employ it.

    It's an odd experience in that I found it entertaining and wanted to keep playing, but on a component level, I found a mess of problems across the board. I think the entertainment in Alpha Protocol ultimately boils down to getting more stuff so you can kill more bad guys, rinse and repeat. Multiple weapons, armor, and gadgets; Lots of which can be upgraded or modified in some way. As you level up and your skills refine, you can really feel the difference in combat and gameplay. It does get a bit repetitive at the end of the game which felt appropriately long. Overall I found the game to be quite entertaining. All issues aside, I still enjoyed Alpha Protocol and would recommend it. Just keep your expectations realistic if not low.

    Alpha Protocol is almost exactly how I had remembered; good but not great. A lukewarm, bittersweet, "so close" kind of game. It got some things right, but did a lot wrong - or sometimes even really wrong. Part of what makes Alpha Protocol good is it taking a different approach in being an action spy RPG adventure that has a skill map and leveling up involved. Very standard fare for modern fantasy games, but not for action games and certainly not any spy ones. It's just such a cool and refreshing genre and idea. Unfortunately, that alone is not a sufficient selling point to lure people into playing. It had a rough time during development and had to be majorly redone in parts. I think it shows through in many spots, but for the most part, holds up. I'd fully support either an HD re-release or a new title in the series.

    If you're wondering where Alpha Protocol can be purchased, sales for Alpha Protocol halted in Summer 2019 due to expired licenses for music within the game.

    If you have any interest in gaming history, I strongly recommend the following article which provides back story and interviews with the developers about the making of the game. It's quite a fascinating read that highlights why some aspects of the game seem so messy or poorly thought out.

    https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2017-09-06-the-making-of-alpha-protocol-obsidians-secret-best-rpg

    Thanks for reading!    … Expand
  8. Overvulture
    Nov 9, 2015
    7
    A glorious flop, Alpha Protocol is a highly ambitious project with great ideas but weak gameplay. Sitting in the Deus Ex genre of rpg-stealth-action-espionage, it offers a customizable protagonist and a game world that reacts to your chosen style of play and personality to present a long, branching storyline where your choices really do matter. Friends might betray you, enemies mightA glorious flop, Alpha Protocol is a highly ambitious project with great ideas but weak gameplay. Sitting in the Deus Ex genre of rpg-stealth-action-espionage, it offers a customizable protagonist and a game world that reacts to your chosen style of play and personality to present a long, branching storyline where your choices really do matter. Friends might betray you, enemies might become allies, and the plot has plenty of ways it can wrap up. Stealth mechanics are passable and easily broken by overpowered skills, combat is fairly generic, but between plot and player choice and overall style, it creates a distinct sense of immersion and does a fine job really making you feel like a spy. Frustrating at times, but satisfying, it's worth a look if you enjoy a game you can play any way you want to.… Expand
  9. ModusOperandi
    Apr 6, 2011
    5
    This game has a very ambitious branching storyline but some of the worst game mechanics i've ever seen. The "stealth" in this game is basically an invisibility cloak and the boss fights look like they came out of an arcade game. It seems they would have done a lot better by just lifting the mechanics of splinter cell and combining it with the style of much superior RPGS (like deus ex) theyThis game has a very ambitious branching storyline but some of the worst game mechanics i've ever seen. The "stealth" in this game is basically an invisibility cloak and the boss fights look like they came out of an arcade game. It seems they would have done a lot better by just lifting the mechanics of splinter cell and combining it with the style of much superior RPGS (like deus ex) they were trying to mimic.

    Speaking of which, it tries to be another RPG like deus ex in more ways than one but lacks the clever detailed gameplay or plot design of that classic. The main character is also vanilla boring and cliche. All in all this is a disappointment but not too bad if you want to be entertained by a silly storyline and some mindless entertainment. The graphics in this game are fairly dated and boring to look at.    … Expand
  10. pvilletta
    Nov 8, 2011
    7
    The expectations before you play could polarize your views. Some play this, expecting "Splinter Cell : The RPG". Others expect "Neverwinter Nights, guest-starring Sam Fisher". It's probably more "Mass Effect in modern times" This would be a good game, if it wasn't for Obsidian's modus operandi of making something that could be awesome, but failing to implement it correctly. There are bugs,The expectations before you play could polarize your views. Some play this, expecting "Splinter Cell : The RPG". Others expect "Neverwinter Nights, guest-starring Sam Fisher". It's probably more "Mass Effect in modern times" This would be a good game, if it wasn't for Obsidian's modus operandi of making something that could be awesome, but failing to implement it correctly. There are bugs, optimization issues, dumb AI, annoying saving (and loading) system, and short-ish campaign. On the other hand, it *is* engaging. Dialogue options, one of those "choice and consequences" concept that doesn't fall flat on its face, different gameplay approaches that actually work, and finally a plot that doesn't revolve around doomsday nuclear weapons threatening the world peace. As an old-time pen-and-paper RPG player, I can confidently say this is a role-playing game. Those who play for action may be disappointed.… Expand
  11. lutteres
    Mar 20, 2014
    7
    Alpha Protocol is a Deus Ex/Splinter Cell (sprinkled with a bit of Mass effect) wannabe that actually succeed at creating an immersive “James Bond” RPG fantasy, despite its many technical problems. Pros: 1) Good storytelling and characters; 2) Deep RPG elements; 3) Excellent facial animations; 4) Tough decisions to make, with interesting consequences; 5) Innovative dialog system;
    6)    Alpha Protocol is a Deus Ex/Splinter Cell (sprinkled with a bit of Mass effect) wannabe that actually succeed at creating an immersive “James Bond” RPG fantasy, despite its many technical problems. Pros: 1) Good storytelling and characters; 2) Deep RPG elements; 3) Excellent facial animations; 4) Tough decisions to make, with interesting consequences; 5) Innovative dialog system;
    6) Gameplay that emphasizes player choice

    Cons:
    1) Bad console port – Recommend using a controller for the best experience;
    2) Checkpoint system (I hate that!);
    3) No antialiasing – Warning: don’t force it through the graphic drivers, or you will break the game). You can have MSAA however if you download this file (http://mrhaandi.blogspot.pt/p/injectsmaa.html) and extract/add it to /AlphaProtocol/ Binaries/ folder;
    4) Lots of bugs and glitches, for example in some missions if you reload a checkpoint, the NPC’s won’t respawn. Surprisingly the game never crashed on me;
    5) Glitchy controls and camera (sometimes the camera locks, and you won’t be able to move, other times it will do a one eighty for no reason.) – Warning: Don’t assign the interact function to any other key than space, or you will break the hacking mini-game.
    6) The f****** hacking mini-game – Warning: don’t play this game on hard as a recruit, and put some action points on the technical skill branch before you start the game;
    7) Terrible cover system – Warning: avoid throwing grenades from cover, because they tend to explode in your face)
    8) Zero Modding community.

    Ultimately, despite its many technical faults, Alpha Protocol is still very fun to play, and that is what really matters in the ends. If you can look pass the obvious technical problems, you will see that it is a very deep and immersive RPG experience that unfortunately lacks a lot of polish. Nevertheless, this does not excuse Obsidian and Sega for releasing an unfinished product, nor their unwillingness to fix it after release.

    Conclusion: If you like RPG games like Mass effect and Deus Ex, I recommend giving this (very underrated) game a go, but don’t expect a smooth ride in the gameplay department.    … Expand
  12. DevilhornsMag
    May 24, 2011
    7
    The RPG heart of Alpha Protocol is pure and true. Real choice and consequence in a setting of international intrigue and adventure. Yes, the combat mechanics are largely broken but not to the point where a satisfying compromise can't be reached in terms of gameplay vs. RPG payoff. On par with Jade Empire for mid-to-high level escapism.
  13. keefbaker
    Oct 13, 2013
    7
    So very nearly great. Fantastic concept, seemingly well executed, then you hit bugs and issues with AI and mechanics problems.... Basically, had a bit more time been spent on the game design and debugging phase this could easily have been up there with the classics.

    Sadly it isn't.
  14. MrMicrochip
    Mar 15, 2012
    7
    Terrible controls and some game engine problems, but still loved this game! I had to give 7 because of the problems but the story was nice and the whole environment the game created.
  15. suneater
    Dec 11, 2012
    7
    Modern day Mass Effect clone by the clone studio with the worst QA staff in the world, Obsidian. Very linear with typical Bioware-esque "go to three places for three quests and then on-rails for the last mission" game structure. Mostly boring characters... The few interesting characters are either useless (Beck) or are only around for two scenes and then limited to being mentioned inModern day Mass Effect clone by the clone studio with the worst QA staff in the world, Obsidian. Very linear with typical Bioware-esque "go to three places for three quests and then on-rails for the last mission" game structure. Mostly boring characters... The few interesting characters are either useless (Beck) or are only around for two scenes and then limited to being mentioned in convos (Sis). Combat is mostly cover based shooting but gets frustrating from enemies killing you while behind cover ("realistic" cover with bullets going through broken concrete and such). Unreliable weapon damage, for both you and your enemies, results in random encounters which dump you back to the last checkpoint (no quicksaving or save anywhere options, thanks consoles) from an AI SMG spraying you and getting 5 lucky headshots in a row. Besides all the problems with it I was able to have a fun yet overly frustrating time with this Deus Ex-esque modern day spy thriller and recommend picking it up.… Expand
  16. Rem
    Apr 17, 2017
    7
    Alpha Protocol is both a "what if" and a legitimately good game. You see flashes of its potential in its well developed RPG and conversation mechanics, both of which have an adverse effect in how you experience this game. Sadly some significant flaws such as a lack of interesting cast, brain dead AI, and general lack of polish keeps this game from becoming another one of Obsidian's gems.Alpha Protocol is both a "what if" and a legitimately good game. You see flashes of its potential in its well developed RPG and conversation mechanics, both of which have an adverse effect in how you experience this game. Sadly some significant flaws such as a lack of interesting cast, brain dead AI, and general lack of polish keeps this game from becoming another one of Obsidian's gems.

    The story centers around Michael Thornton, a secret agent who starts off working for a black ops organization named Alpha Protocol. After a mission goes awry, he is forced to go rogue in events that yet again put a threat to world peace. While the plot for the most part is of the 'espionage' schtick, it gives enough context for the game's various setpieces It's how you affect the story that serves as Alpha Protocol's strongest link. Your relationships with characters and organizations are affected based on you want Thornton to react to a situation, and it's this degree of control that should be implemented in more games today. The biggest pitfall regarding the story is the cast of characters, they're all generally forgettable. One crucial sin the plot makes is that the only traits the characters exhibit are those that only tied to the plot, rather than making the characters interesting themselves. They're voice acted convincingly, but none of these characters will stick in your mind even a day after the credits roll.

    The gameplay has flashes of excellence with a surprising amount of depth in what sort of secret agent you want Thornton to become. From a sabotage technician to a martial artist soldier, the game more than encompasses your preferred playstyle by making every point you put into a certain tree of actual value, not just a minute passive bonus. A fatal flaw in this department is not so much the RPG mechanics themselves, but rather how it translates to gameplay. Enemies in this game are so stupidly exploitable that I had to pinch myself, the AI is atrocious. If they're not running into walls or spotting you from impossible angles, they're running into you're gunfire with no real desire for self preservation and can absorb bullets like a champ. They make the game laughably both easy and frustrating, and bring down what is an otherwise great system that has plenty of potential for future installments. When it works, Alpha Protocol's gameplay forces you to consider your route and tactics through a level, something most games don't even dare try. When it doesn't, Alpha Protocol becomes a slog and an exercise in patience.

    One aspect that you'll forget quickly is the game's music, it's fitting regarding the game's tone, but none of the tracks are memorable or scintillating. In the visuals department, the Alpha Protocol does not hold up today. Facial animations are actually well done, but everything else is decidedly last gen. Level design works well for the gameplay, but is absolutely basic looking, along with the textures, effects, animations, and art design. The gist of how the game looks: unmemorable, even for 2010.

    Alpha Protocol does show promise should there be a future installment of the same design, a potential fantastic game that realizes player choice while providing flexible gameplay, but it falls well short of that. It's lackluster components really stick out, but the game gives you enough reasons to ignore them in lieu of player control over story and gameplay, it's an idea that deserves a second shot and is quite enjoyable for most of its 14 hour campaign, a replayable one at that.    … Expand
  17. Kalfear
    May 18, 2013
    7
    So I gotta admit, if I was writing this reveiw when the game released, it would be a solid ZERO from me.
    Problem being I reached the tutorial hacking portion and couldnt advance.
    I could not see the numbers required to beat the hacking mini game for the life of me and since Obsidian is known for putting in what I like to call "gotcha" elements that stop you dead in tracks, I was one    So I gotta admit, if I was writing this reveiw when the game released, it would be a solid ZERO from me.
    Problem being I reached the tutorial hacking portion and couldnt advance.
    I could not see the numbers required to beat the hacking mini game for the life of me and since Obsidian is known for putting in what I like to call "gotcha" elements that stop you dead in tracks, I was one frustrated player.

    Tried for 3 weeks to get past this one item and couldnt. Thus the game would not let me past point and was finished.

    Ive never purchased another Obsidian product since then once they told everyone they didnt care about choke point (was more then just me having issues there) and would not release a work around to allow people to you know, play the rest of game.

    So fast forward to April 2013 and I decide to try again and load up game.
    Well first thing is I have to download a patch from a non Sega/Obsidian site just to run the dang game now. But I did
    And I got past the hacking part (make no mistake, I still cant do it on anything but Easy game setting, the mini game difficulty is way out of whack from the combat difficulty setting in this game).

    And man Im glad I did.
    Alpha Protocol is an amazing Action/RPG.
    Its along the lines of Mass Effect 2 but doesnt pretend to be what its not like ME2 did at release. This is a secret agent spy thriller with lots of shooting, bombs, sneaking, and romances. You decide how you will act and otehrs respond approapriately.

    I freaking love this game

    Such a shame Obsidian had to put in the choke point and then be dicks about it
    This franchise deserves #2 and #3 and more

    Unfortunately the response to Obsidian and AP was so negative at release Sega has stated there will be no future Alpha Protocol games made.

    Amazing game that just had the misfortune of being created by bad designers who wouldnt do their upmost to ensure customer satisfaction.

    Ina perfect world, when it became obvious so many were having issues with the mini games, Obsidian should have put out a patch that allowed players to set mini game difficulty AND combat difficulty in 2 seperate panels.
    Mini Game Beginer, Easy, Moderate, Hard
    Combat Easy, Moderate, Hard

    Ive completely game 3 times now and would love to up the combat difficulty level as its pretty easy for me to blitz through single shoting everything with head shots now. Unfortunately I still struggle with the mini games set on Easy setting.    … Expand
  18. ammilner
    Mar 14, 2015
    7
    Obsidian’s 2010 release Alpha Protocol is the best bad game that I have ever played, though the game Deadly Premonition is a close second, in part because of its completely underwhelming technology for a 2010 release but mostly because Alpha Protocol presents several very interesting and fun aspects to gameplay and story progression that actually work and, for the most part, workObsidian’s 2010 release Alpha Protocol is the best bad game that I have ever played, though the game Deadly Premonition is a close second, in part because of its completely underwhelming technology for a 2010 release but mostly because Alpha Protocol presents several very interesting and fun aspects to gameplay and story progression that actually work and, for the most part, work surprisingly well.
    As much as Alpha Protocol could have been huge success with its combination of espionage that is similar to the Splinter Cell and Hitman series and choice based gameplay indicative of the Mass Effect series and Heavy Rain. Unfortunately, Alpha Protocol doesn’t seem to grasp how to fully combine all of its ideas to make something truly enjoyable and ends up as a confused mess of a game. However, while Alpha Protocol is indeed a mess it still has something about it that makes it fun and interesting to play and makes it worthwhile for most gamers to check out.
    The one thing that truly makes Alpha Protocol stand out is the way it utilizes its choice based storyline. Though the actual plot and the protagonist are not all too interesting the dialogue tree allows the player to respond in four different ways (Professional, Suave, Aggressive and Silent) on a time sensitive response menu and it works wonderfully well. Every character the player has a conversation with has their one attitude towards each response type and when they should be used and will respond to the player on a 21-point approval/disapproval scale which will also change how the characters respond to the player based on where in the scale they are. The character approval system even goes so far that other characters in the world will react negatively or positively based on your history with others and your actions in the field (who you’ve save or killed).
    Alpha Protocol is a complex game that was not executed correctly and came out several years too late to be able to fully make up for its faults. That being said, Alpha Protocol has some truly innovative and enjoyable qualities about that offer tons of replay ability to the player. A broken gem but a gem nonetheless.    … Expand
  19. Diegochocho
    Aug 28, 2018
    7
    No tiene una jugabilidad muy buena que digamos, y los gráficos pudieron haber sido mejores, ya que en esa época mass effect 2 eran mucho mejor, pero lo que salva mucho al juego es la historia y los distintos caminos que se pueden tomar.
  20. Cyberevil
    Dec 28, 2020
    7
    To summarize this game in one sentence: Entertaining espionage romp with decisions that matter held back by developers with too much ambition, too little money, or both.
  21. ThiagoC
    Jun 1, 2010
    7
    Good things: Characters and story, the missions are diverse and the game knows how to keep your interests all the way trough, good character customization. Bad things: Combat a bit 'meh', the PC version has a few slowdowns.
  22. Dashery
    Oct 27, 2011
    7
    I want to start off by saying this game is not worth it's full price, if you want Alpha Protocol, wait for it to go on sale as it often does on Steam. With that being said, the game is definitely worth it to anyone who enjoys Espionage stories and games like Mass Effect, in which you feel like you actually have a say in the sequence of events. These two things, the latter especially, II want to start off by saying this game is not worth it's full price, if you want Alpha Protocol, wait for it to go on sale as it often does on Steam. With that being said, the game is definitely worth it to anyone who enjoys Espionage stories and games like Mass Effect, in which you feel like you actually have a say in the sequence of events. These two things, the latter especially, I cannot stress enough as being very, very impressive. I've played through the game twice now, and even by doing missions in a different order, you will find that the story has drastically changed. Another great feature is the cast of odd ball characters you encounter. They range from your classic Bond villain, to the stereotypical Saudi terrorist, to the loveable oddballs you would find in a Quentin Terontino film. And this diversity is great and breathes life into the game. Just as you're getting bored with dealing with one set of adversaries a whole new and different group appears. And with that being say, Alpha Protocol is the autistic brother to other games, such as Mass Effect. It does what it does well so good, but it struggles in other areas. Such as gameplay. This game was nearly unplayable until I changed the sound.ini files. The fact my "Takedowns" were just as loud as a shotgun is just unacceptable. Even silenced weapons, which in most games will make your gun silenced, here, however, it just makes a pistol slightly quieter. And there really is no stealth, there is no Splinter Cell going from shadow to shadow, there is no Assassins Creed blending in to crowds, in all honesty, it's Mass Effect with crouching and occasionally enemies won't see you. Shooting, as well, is a little rough. Blind firing, I find, is far more effective than aiming for some reason. Gadgets never do anything. And the hacking mini-games are tedious and boring, adding no extra life to the game, only sucking it away. While Alpha Protocol does suffer from these dehibilitations, with a game like this that frequently hovers around $2 on Steam sales and the ability to make your guns slightly quieter through small tweaking of the system, the story and characters make this game worth looking at.… Expand
  23. AlanComek
    Jan 13, 2013
    6
    Tons of potential just completely squandered by clunky controls and programming. It has every core mechanic that makes a game great, including a fantastic story, but then just trips over its own shoelaces when you start to play it.
  24. DegenCutter
    Jun 17, 2015
    7
    As is typical of Obsidian, Alpha Protocol is a game with a great deal of promise let down by a number of flaws. The innovative branching gameplay and conversation system was great, but the game is plagued by bugs, mechanical issues, and a less than stellar control system. Still, it's an interesting game and one of the few rpgs I know of to tackle the modern espionage/spy genre. It's worthAs is typical of Obsidian, Alpha Protocol is a game with a great deal of promise let down by a number of flaws. The innovative branching gameplay and conversation system was great, but the game is plagued by bugs, mechanical issues, and a less than stellar control system. Still, it's an interesting game and one of the few rpgs I know of to tackle the modern espionage/spy genre. It's worth a look so long as you go in with eyes open about if's problems.… Expand
  25. ChoicestGames
    Mar 3, 2012
    7
    One of the least buggiest Obsidian Entertainment RPGs ever, which really isn't saying much... still the plot and replayability alone helps save this game from being merely average.
  26. BryceW
    Jun 5, 2010
    6
    Gameplay: The game play varies from average to poor. Weapon balance is inconsistent and accuracy is almost a constant challenge to overcome. There were times when facing a stationary enemy 20 feet away, while I was crouching and aiming at his chest I would empty entire clips and hit nothing but air. At the same time the abilities for pistols make them completely overpowered, allowing you Gameplay: The game play varies from average to poor. Weapon balance is inconsistent and accuracy is almost a constant challenge to overcome. There were times when facing a stationary enemy 20 feet away, while I was crouching and aiming at his chest I would empty entire clips and hit nothing but air. At the same time the abilities for pistols make them completely overpowered, allowing you to slow time and line up multiple headshots and take out everyone in a single go. Add stealth to that ability and you… Expand
  27. MatS
    Jun 7, 2010
    7
    Very nice graphics, but that doesn't do enough to push the game any higher in rating. There was much hype about this game, but alas I feel it was all a bit of an over statement. The controls feel too clunky when playing with a keyboard and mouse, which makes me think that this was more designed for the console rather then the PC. This game has a great concept and they have certainly Very nice graphics, but that doesn't do enough to push the game any higher in rating. There was much hype about this game, but alas I feel it was all a bit of an over statement. The controls feel too clunky when playing with a keyboard and mouse, which makes me think that this was more designed for the console rather then the PC. This game has a great concept and they have certainly tried to deliver something memorable, but I just don't think they got there. Nothing in this game draws me back wanting to play more. There really isn't any longevity in this game and will be quickly swept aside for something better.… Expand
  28. MikeT.
    Jun 3, 2010
    7
    Mediocre gameplay with highly inaccurate weapons that skills do little to offset, hugely imbalanced skills (pistol chainshot and invisibility are absurdly more useful than anything else), characters, writing, dialogue, and plot that disappoint from the makers of KOTOR2 and Planescape, and dull level design equal Alpha Protocol. The game's single strong suit is its reactivity. No game Mediocre gameplay with highly inaccurate weapons that skills do little to offset, hugely imbalanced skills (pistol chainshot and invisibility are absurdly more useful than anything else), characters, writing, dialogue, and plot that disappoint from the makers of KOTOR2 and Planescape, and dull level design equal Alpha Protocol. The game's single strong suit is its reactivity. No game to date has as many branching or variable paths (you can even have different final bosses), and it's worth checking out for that...just not at full price. Go play the KOTORs, Mass Effects, Vampire, Deus Exes for atmosphere, writing, and (in case of ME2 and DX and somewhat Vampire) gameplay, and then if you'd like to see an exercise in game design, pick up Alpha Protocol in the bargain bin.… Expand
  29. SpencerT.
    Jun 9, 2010
    7
    Not the best mobility, no jumping, hiding is tricky at best. Weapons for player are highly inaccurate, where the bots can hit you with a mounted gun across a vast gully. The shotgun's accuracy makes sense, where as the pistol is nearly as inaccurate. The story so far seems somewhat interesting, but i would probably not want to pay more than 20 bucks for it. But if you like being Not the best mobility, no jumping, hiding is tricky at best. Weapons for player are highly inaccurate, where the bots can hit you with a mounted gun across a vast gully. The shotgun's accuracy makes sense, where as the pistol is nearly as inaccurate. The story so far seems somewhat interesting, but i would probably not want to pay more than 20 bucks for it. But if you like being sneeky, and enjoy a good RP, then this certainly is a good game. I however, wont be playing it very much.… Expand
  30. wordy_actions
    Mar 26, 2011
    6
    A mixed bag. The plot and dialogue are for the most part excellent, but a huge range of gameplay issues keep this game from becoming great. If this game had come out in 2006 it would be a classic. However, in a post ME2 world, it feels clunky and dated.
  31. CCL-sama
    Sep 29, 2013
    5
    As a true gamer, I like to play it always on hard more in my first try for challenge and fun. I think the game could be very enjoyable if I play it on normal. But the hard mode was more than hard or challenging it was like a nightmare mode which means u will die really fast! :O. One small mistake and it's over! On the one hand I like that, it gives more reality. But on the other hand whichAs a true gamer, I like to play it always on hard more in my first try for challenge and fun. I think the game could be very enjoyable if I play it on normal. But the hard mode was more than hard or challenging it was like a nightmare mode which means u will die really fast! :O. One small mistake and it's over! On the one hand I like that, it gives more reality. But on the other hand which killed all my enjoyment in this game is why the heck are the enemies so durable!? They are like zombies lol if you don't shoot him in the head you have no chance! I don't even want to mention the crazy boss-fights XD Why didn't they make another mode for that? Did the devs even play this mode? I completed hard mode but it was a painful play. You have to trick the AI to survive and rely on your skills everytime. Oh yeah did I mention the aiming? You have to focus on your aim like a sniper rifle lol I don't think that a veteran agent needs so long to aim on someone. Well overall it could be a really good game if they make it more user-friendly and the hard mode more easier. Thx for reading … Expand
  32. gvazdas
    May 6, 2012
    6
    I can't give this game a high score. As much as I want to enjoy it, I can't.
    The graphics are flat and motion blur is sickening. I cannot play more than an hour of this game due to the motion blur which makes me eyesick.
    The AI in this game is also very, very stupid. They magically know you are there if there's an alarm, and if there's not an alarm, they're like deaf and blind babies    I can't give this game a high score. As much as I want to enjoy it, I can't.
    The graphics are flat and motion blur is sickening. I cannot play more than an hour of this game due to the motion blur which makes me eyesick.
    The AI in this game is also very, very stupid. They magically know you are there if there's an alarm, and if there's not an alarm, they're like deaf and blind babies with guns.
    The choice and storyline in this game is what makes it all. The choices are great and, as Yahtzee would say, you get to be all kinds of dick or good guy.
    Buy this game on a sale. It's not worth the price in my full, honest opinion.    … Expand
  33. namDa65
    Jan 17, 2012
    6
    I have to compare to mass effect, i'm sorry. The AI and gunplay is not fun in my eyes. I purchased it on the reccomendation of it being a hidden gem, and no its not. The level design is very bland, leading you through a straight path with only a small number of ways to approach that path. Also, martials arts animations are lame.
  34. SilentHightimes
    Jun 27, 2015
    6
    Alpha Protocol has Gogo dancers and Sex, Blood lots of satisfying BLOOD nothing made me want to play this game more than a knife to the throat.

    Alpha Protocol Is a somewhat buggy kinda gimmicky game but its still has some charm i saw the steam score of 80 (which no way i think it comes close) so i thought it would be pretty impressive but its really nothing close to it lol. Alpha    Alpha Protocol has Gogo dancers and Sex, Blood lots of satisfying BLOOD nothing made me want to play this game more than a knife to the throat.

    Alpha Protocol Is a somewhat buggy kinda gimmicky game but its still has some charm i saw the steam score of 80 (which no way i think it comes close) so i thought it would be pretty impressive but its really nothing close to it lol. Alpha Protocol Feels weird and kinda looks ugly off the bat but after some time it felt great and started to please my eyes. The games gameplay is some of the simplistic yet satisfying in its own way. It reminded me of a metal gear with way less money and for the softcore. The game story kept me going its kinda unique i guess i did enjoy it. I don't know if i would have liked this game if i didn't build my guy assassin i put everything into stealth, pistol and a few points in sabotage and strengths i specialized in stealth, pistol and assault rifle which i regret wish i put it in the CQC but o well you cant go back, all of your decisions are almost finale and it kinda sucks if people want to change there ways let em if they don't want to they wont. why add a strict policy if it doesn't improve the game? o well i lived with it and moved on. I felt that the rectile was the worst i have ever seen and the assault rifle the worse i have ever used! and don't think i would have enjoyed the game other than the first class decisions i made. Its still a FUN game ...

    I want to make it clear you can run and gun or you can stealth kill. BUT there are some missions that you are forced to fight and cant complete with stealth only which is disappointing! Replay value is eh never again 4 me.

    Just a FYI these are just my opinions. Silent Hightimes    … Expand
  35. fedak
    Nov 23, 2012
    6
    This was an odd one- Alpha Protocol was a deeply flawed game on many dimensions. But in others it was a compelling espionage RPG along the lines of Deus Ex.

    The game was quite buggy. One of the levels froze on me and wouldn
  36. Pirx-Danford
    Feb 21, 2013
    6
    I got the game at a good price and it really is great entertainment.

    Having said that let me explain why I gave it a 6. Just to add some skill system that does not really much affect game play does not make a RPG out of a shooter. Just because you try to find every piece of information lying around does not make it espionage. I believe the point where I was let down with is best    I got the game at a good price and it really is great entertainment.

    Having said that let me explain why I gave it a 6.
    Just to add some skill system that does not really much affect game play does not make a RPG out of a shooter. Just because you try to find every piece of information lying around does not make it espionage.

    I believe the point where I was let down with is best described this way:
    The structure or rather tools that this game consists of, all technical capabilities seem like they had a much grander scale in mind when being developed. You have that complex skill system, different ways your character possibly could solve scenarios (like for example in the first Deus Ex), a relationship system to other people, that possibly could affect game play much more.
    So you have all the things in place that could make an interesting RPG, but then apparently time was running out or whatever the reason was and you cripple the whole game by making a rather linear shooter out of it.

    I really enjoyed the story, but I would have rather liked it if either the RPG elements would have been a bit simplified, because really most of them are quite pointless giving the linearity and have not much effect within the game...
    or it could have been a bit more of an open and generic world and missions designed so that you could have solved them different ways, so that all of the RPG elements would have made sense.
    Oh and some espionage elements like decrypting messages and such would have been fun.

    Great shooter as it is, enjoyable story, but too tiresome and meaningless skill and item system.
    If you can get it for 2.5$ then go for it. Even at 5$ its definitely worth the money     … Expand
  37. lavalampjoe
    Aug 31, 2013
    7
    Good game that doesn't always quite live up to what it was aiming for, but was still very good. Most of it went right great ambitious story, good voice acting, nice RPG elements, but some of the gameplay, in particular the stealth elements, is only solid rather than spectacular.
  38. debigman
    May 22, 2014
    6
    It pains me to give this game such a mediocre review, as it has such good potential. But both the lag and poor framerate are too much to bear. (No my GPU is not crap).
  39. Sanastusa
    May 11, 2015
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. You play Mike Thorton, a rouge agent gone rouge, trying to protect the world from a greedy weapons corporation. At first the story seemed boring but it really picks up after the first few missions. The game has a open gameplay option, you can either try being a ninja taking out one guy at a time with knife strikes or run in guns blazing. The options for what kind of solider you want to be are there for you or you can pick the "Recruit" and make your solider from scratch.
    Course of the game is driven by your conversations with people along the way. Your offered dialogue options as conversations progress. How you respond to people can either build or remove influence points, ultimately having a outcome towards the end of the game.
    The leveling system and skill layout reminds me a lot of the Mass Effect series, that being said its a pretty decent skill system. Halfway through the game your given the choice of a specialization and just like the base of your character you can either pick a preset one or choose which three traits you wish to indulge in.
    Overall I enjoyed the game and there is a high replay value to the game seeing how you can have a different solider layout and change which people you align with, having a different playthrough experience.

    Things I Liked:
    Leveling / Skill System
    Free choice to course of the game
    Conversation Choices
    Mission Debriefing was a nice feature that outlined the events that happened and showed the effect of the choices you made

    Things I Disliked:
    Controls at point had a delay time
    A annoying bug that could happen when you were crouched near boxes and moving, you could end up on the top of the pile
    Limited amount of time you had to made a conversation choice
    Hitting with any weapon proved a challenge    … Expand
  40. dandalis
    Dec 17, 2017
    7
    Easily one of the better hidden gems of PS3 and Xbox 360 generation. Considering the game's development was quite rocky and SEGA interferring with Obsidian's work, game came out with rough edges, but even then it didnt stop it from being a good game. That said i didnt encounter any real bugs or glitches that messed with gameplay or progression that were apparent on game's launch whileEasily one of the better hidden gems of PS3 and Xbox 360 generation. Considering the game's development was quite rocky and SEGA interferring with Obsidian's work, game came out with rough edges, but even then it didnt stop it from being a good game. That said i didnt encounter any real bugs or glitches that messed with gameplay or progression that were apparent on game's launch while playing on seemingly latest build in late 2017.

    While stealth action gameplay is servicable, it simply lacks depth of more serious stealth games and feels too streamlined and is not particularly that PC gamer friendly, the RPG roots shine in Alpha Protocol and compensate for its other shortcomings. Dont get me wrong, gameplay is still fun and there's fun to be had for both stealth fans and more action oriented junkies. It could really be the best spy themed video game out there with actually good writing, believable and mostly likeable, interesting characters, decent if not bit cliche storyline that never the less still delivers with different turns it can take depending on your choices.

    Being an UE3 game, it doesnt escape from having some well known issues associated with the engine, like jerky stutter when loading a new section of a level, slowly loading textures at times, poor weight feel when controiling your character. Luckily it works where it counts the most, that being delivering 60 fps on max settings even on old GTX 650    … Expand
  41. Mobile
    Nov 19, 2017
    6
    ENG
    The game is a Prime example of that, if the technical part is not modified, then no matter how much the game wasn't different variations to complete and a large number of equipment, they will still go down the drain because of bugs and the curve of the engine. The developers of course great that he dared to release such a product to market, from his point of view and approach to    ENG
    The game is a Prime example of that, if the technical part is not modified, then no matter how much the game wasn't different variations to complete and a large number of equipment, they will still go down the drain because of bugs and the curve of the engine. The developers of course great that he dared to release such a product to market, from his point of view and approach to development. Similar games, I almost do not know the Protocol and can be called one of a kind with the gameplay. As they say - "excess of taste kills the taste."
    RU
    Игра яркий пример того, что если техническая часть не доработана, то сколько бы в игре не было разных вариаций для прохождения и большого количества экипировки, они все равно пойдут коту под хвост из-за багов и кривого движка. Разработчики конечно молодцы, что осмелились выпустить такой продукт на рынок, со своей точки зрения и подхода к разработке. Подобных игр я практически не знаю и Protocol можно назвать единственной в своем роде с таким геймплеем. Как говорится - "избыток вкуса убивает вкус".    … Expand
  42. SgAkErRu
    Apr 11, 2020
    7
    Вообще не помню что в этой игре было, но сыграть можно, на семерочку от разрабов Обсидианов.
  43. ylnylmn
    Mar 29, 2021
    6
    The game is simply mediocre. An unfinished game that hasn't done most of it. The chapters are boring too ordinary. Diagologists pass very quickly. I cannot give the answer I want. I have difficulty passing the section where he wants me to go secretly. But my equipment is not suitable for going secret and I cannot buy it because I have no money. I have to kill CIA agents and this isThe game is simply mediocre. An unfinished game that hasn't done most of it. The chapters are boring too ordinary. Diagologists pass very quickly. I cannot give the answer I want. I have difficulty passing the section where he wants me to go secretly. But my equipment is not suitable for going secret and I cannot buy it because I have no money. I have to kill CIA agents and this is affecting the relationship badly. It is difficult to aim the sniper scope badly on the Roman mission because the mouse control is bad. AI is bad. Computer hacking is annoying because mouse clicking is torture.I now understand why this game was not mentioned. So the story is good, but the gameplay sucks.… Expand

Awards & Rankings

83
#83 Best PC Game of 2010
21
#21 Most Discussed PC Game of 2010
23
#23 Most Shared PC Game of 2010

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
73

Mixed or average reviews - based on 26 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 26
  2. Mixed: 13 out of 26
  3. Negative: 1 out of 26
  1. Gaming Age
    May 20, 2024
    80
    It’s a solid spy adventure that deserves to be rediscovered, and it’s a reminder that even the seventh generation’s second- or third-tier games were still pretty exceptional.
    Read full review
  2. CPUGamer
    80
    From the beginning of the game, till the ending, I was relatively pleased with how important and impactful the decisions I made were.
    Read full review
  3. PC PowerPlay
    70
    Mediocre gameplay hides an enjoyable RPG with moments of genius. But it could have been so much more. [Aug 2010, p.56]
See all critic reviews »