Block N Load

Block N Load for PC is an online tactical shooter offering team competitions taking place on fully modifiable maps resembling the popular Minecraft in terms of visuals. Jagex – an independent British developer popular mainly for Ace of Spades and Runescape, a highly acclaimed MMO game, created the game.

Mechanics

The mechanics combine freedom and aspects of open-worlds (for which the Mojang studio has been especially recognizable) with elements of online shooters filled with humor, such as the classic Team Fortress 2. Competition between two teams of five players constitutes the core of the experience. The in-game characters represent different classes and the goal of each fight is to destroy the enemy's base/bases. Among the figures one can play as here, the player will find a Rambo-like commando, a Mexican ninja, the Cogwheel robot or a crazy female scientist. Each such figure is described by their stats, a different set of weapons and gadgets, as well as unique abilities (an active, passive, and defensive one). Similar to the aforementioned Team Fortress 2, none of the in-game character classes can serve all the purposes, and victory depends largely on teamwork, as different characters represent different abilities and fighting styles.

What distinguishes Block N Load for PC from other games in the genre, is what can be called the building phase – the stage when the players can modify the battlefield to their liking and hence prepare themselves for the encounter. Before the match begins, each of the teams is given a limited amount of time to both strengthen their line of defense and create different offensive opportunities to be taken advantage of in combat. Making use of one's character's abilities, for example, the player can construct a bridge or a trench – those can be used to get near the enemy's base unseen. One can also build a bunker, set up stationary cannons, radars, healing machines, and an entire set of creativity-driven traps, such as mines, snares, glue (which slows enemies down) or disappearing blocks. All of such modifications can be introduced to the environment also during the match, and being able to build a barricade quickly can save one's life in face of the approaching enemy.

Technical aspects

Block N Load for PC comes with typical visual style popularized by Minecraft, though this game offers more of a cartoonish atmosphere. As a result, the graphics are more colorful and hilarity-driven, which is the game's distinctive feature. Contrary to the maps as such, the characters are represented by detailed, 3D models resembling those present in Team Fortress 2, especially in the manner of presentation. What is typical for online games, Block N Load features rankings. Thanks to synchronizing the game with Steam Workshop, player-created maps can be shared with others.

Last updated on March 4, 2017