Master X Master

Master X Master for PC is a hybrid MMO game belonging to the popular MOBA subgenre. Apart from typical PvP duels, an extensive PvE component was included here. The game was created by NCSoft – a Korean developer popular for such classics as Lineage or Guild Wars. Master X Master was based on slightly modified mechanics of another NCSoft's game - Metal Black: Alternative, which was being created at the same time.

Mechanics

The game is set in a universe that constitutes of a combination of NCSoft's previous games, such as Lineage, Aion or Blade & Soul. The player explores different maps; science-fiction labs or more ordinary environments such as jungles or deserts. Among the available characters, the player will find both those who appeared first in the games, and some that are completely new. Each of them has five active abilities and from 2 to 3 passive ones. However, the player can only use three, which requires them to select the abilities that will be most useful during an upcoming fight or a mission. This obligation is rewarded however, for the player was given an opportunity to control two characters at once - one can switch between them quickly by pressing Tab. The system popularized mainly by fighting games such as Tekken Tag Tournament is useful when one of the characters needs rest, because the other controllable fighter stands up to the opponent then.

Master X Master for PC offers several PvP modes. Among those, the player will find the classic Team Deathmatch (a team with a larger number of kills wins); Point Control - here, the players fight for control over key points on the map; in Ruins of the Titans mode, a team is capable of summoning titans with great powers. Interestingly, what is not included in serious MMOs, is present here - a recreational mode containing arcade mini-games, including Laser Dodging, Bullet Mode and Racing.

What is innovative about Master X Master for PC, is the introduction of an equally important PvE mode, which resembles typical MMORPGs in its structure and makes the game a hybrid. This PvE component is based on quests that await completion in 25 different locations differing mostly in the level of difficulty. In the PvE mode, the players can acquire unique runes and rare materials in order to improve the character's skills or upgrade weapons owned. Importantly, modifications made in such a way affect also the course of events in the PvP mode.

Technical aspects

Master X Master for PC offers a three-dimensional environment and is played from an isometric view, which is typical for MOBA titles. Contrary to the classic controls pattern (mouse), the characters are controlled here through pressing WASD keys, when the cursor is used to aim and attack. Asian influences are visible in the visuals, and the experience is accompanied by an original, dubstep soundtrack.

Last updated on September 13, 2016