

The driving physics for example, are horrible, and there doesn’t seem like there’s much to spend money on, and as you said, the skills tree is far too small. I’m enjoying it, but I can’t help but feel a few more months would have given the game some much needed polish. For a more in-depth look, our multiplayer guide gives a complete run-down. From the hide-and-seek “Tailing” and “Intrusion” modes to the more traditional “Decryption” this is where Ubisoft Montreal show off some of their more ambitious ideas.

Online multiplayer also serves up a platter of appetising distractions. Before Watch Dogs’ halfway mark I had already hit the level cap, eliminating much of the incentive found in doing side missions.

The disappointing thing about this system is just how fast these unlocks are available. These range from weapon buffs to crafting recipes and combat perks. When gunning down enemies or completing tasks, players will also gain experience points, each level granting points to unlock new abilities. Money in Watch Dogs is spent on components for items such as grenades and lures as well as cars and weapons. Some will no doubt want to blitz through the story whereas others will prioritise gaining skill points and cash. The fact that these can be accessed at any time gives players the freedom to explore Chicago at their own pace. Like any open-world game worth its salt, there is a glut of side content, from side missions and collectibles to mini-game and challenges. Progress in Watch Dogs isn’t entirely reflected by the number of campaign missions under your belt. “There is a glut of side content, from side missions and collectibles to mini-game and challenges.” When in a car chase, these hacking powers can be applied to activate bollards, traffic lights, and bridges to cut off those who you are chasing and those who are chasing you. For instance, when under fire, Aidan can rotate solar panels and elevate platforms to create cover points. With the tap of a button players can whip out Aidan’s smartphone, breach Chicago’s ctOS network and tamper with a variety of objects connected to the system. For a long time players are kept guessing who Aidan’s nemesis really is and, even then, the payoff is short-lived.Īside from having access to an arsenal of weapons and gadgets, our protagonist has another trick up his sleeve. It must be said, however, that Watch Dogs’ villains do little to stir your emotions. A cast of robust secondary characters are incrementally employed to keep things fresh, though some are more successful than others. Spanning eight to twelve hours, the singleplayer missions conjures up an interesting story, though one that arguably sags in the middle. “Watch Dogs’ villains do little to stir your emotions”
