Gears of War 1 & 2 Graphics Compared Side by Side
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Gears of War 2 Flashback Map Initial Impressions: Gridlock
The lighting of this map is impressive and changes the overall tone of the map. The mountain in the back jumped out at me first and adds scale. Also after looking at it more, the textures on the ground and in the vehicles make this map far more impressive to me in this comparison.
Gears of War 2 Flashback Map Initial Impressions: Subway
Again lighting has changed and the rain is gone. The buildings, both foreground and background, have more textures and there appears to be less foliage. The feeling that I get from this map is that it may look better but possibly at the cost of some character. Many of the FPS multiplayer maps we play on in current games share this exact color palette.
Gears of War 2 Flashback Map Initial Impressions: Mansion
When I think scary mansions, I think stereotypical night and rain. That is not shown in the screen from the new game. This time we get a haze and a better look at the mansion itself as well as a lamp post and foliage in the foreground. I do like that on the right side you can see the tall tree and get a feel for the environment around the residence.
Gears of War 2 Flashback Map Initial Impressions: Tyro Station
Tyro Station is the first of the two maps that are actually cooled off by the color palette. Also this map stands out to me as being vastly improved visually. Almost all of the textures are far more detailed, the environment is far more full, and the additions of things like trees make the environment seem more real. Notice the crane in the back and the big pipe coming towards the foreground. This may be my pick of the group.
Gears of War 2 Flashback Map Initial Impressions: Canals
Canals is the other cooled down map. This almost looks icy with all of the blue throughout. The trees are gone and the ornament on top of the building in the center has been taken out as well. This opens up the space more and adds to the cold feel of the map. You can also see a little more artistry in places like the bridge. The lamps appear to be tweaked and aren't glowing either. This map looks to have a feel that should translate into the gameplay.