Transformers: Fall of Cybertron: Hands-On Multiplayer Rundown Company: Activision We recently got a chance to get some hands-on time with Transformers: Fall of Cybertron’s multiplayer modes and if there is one thing I can say for sure, it’s that we had a blast doing it. Fall of Cybertron features three types of multiplayer modes, and a retooled character creation system that is bound to keep the gamers that truly enjoy tweaking their character enthralled for a rather long time. While the co-op campaign from War for Cybertron doesn't return in this game, it does contain the Escalation Mode that puts you and your friends in a room where wave after wave of enemy Transformers come after you. As you survive each wave of attack, new weapons, upgrades and areas will become available, and you will need every advantage you can get. While these hordes of enemy robots might not be able to take as much damage as you, they can easily overwhelm you and your compatriots in sheer numbers. Transformers: Fall of Cybertron also features a Team Deathmatch Mode that has players of each of the four classes trying to rack up as many kills a possible. These four classes are Scientist, Infiltrator, Destroyer and Titan. The Infiltrator class is a light attacking character that is fast and agile, but doesn't pack a lot of punch. On the opposite side of the spectrum is the Titan. These larger and slower Transformers can dole out a lot of damage, but even their increased health bar won't last long if they don't avoid even the lightest of attacks for extended amounts of time. The Destroyer class fits nicely between the Infiltration and Titan and is the best option for players that want a more balanced fighter or don't have a lot of experience in multiplayer matches. As for the Scientist class, he acts as the healer and can see the health levels of his squad mates, but don't think that he can't deal out some damage of his own. Even this type of Transformer can be a killer in the right hands (which I learned are not mine). Conquest Mode also returns in Transformers: Fall of Cybertron. In this mode, the two teams battle it out to capture and hold three nodes scattered around the arena. The longer you hold a node, the more points you earn for your side. The multiplayer modes feature a rework of the character creation tool that allows players to change eight different aspects of their character's structure. These aspects include vehicle type, decals, arms, legs, wings, head and shoulders and avid Transformers fans should be able to recognize a majority of the body parts used. Couple that with a fairly comprehensive color scheming system, for when your character is either faction, and the ability to vary granularity and adjust the shine of the metal that makes up your robot, and you have a system that shouldn't leave any gamer feeling like they can't make the Transformer they want. Activision and High Moon Studios also announced the ability to use Dinobots and Insecticons in multiplayer modes, but they didn't give us the chance to test drive these characters. Needless to say, it will be interesting to see how theses breeds of Transformers can change the gameplay experience. It's obvious that High Moon Studios is going all out for Transformers: Fall of Cybertron. Not only are they building on a lot of the features that made War for Cybertron a good game, but they are adding to the mix with some solid gameplay experiences, and not just in multiplayer. For more information about the single player campaign, check out the article, Cybertron Falls from our E3 2012 coverage. Look for Transformers: Fall of Cybertron to hit the stores on the PS3 and Xbox 360 this August and check back for full reviews soon. -J.R. Nip, GameVortex Communications AKA Chris Meyer Related Links: Game Vortex's "Cybertron Falls" Article from E3 2012 PSIllustrated's Review of Transformers: War for Cybertron for the PS3 Game Vortex's Transformers Coverage