Alpha Protocol Interview

GameSpot AU had the opportunity to fire off the latest round of questions to Alpha Protocol producer Matthew Rorie.
GS AU: What are the role-playing aspects of the game? How will they be incorporated into gameplay?

MR: There are tons of role-playing elements in Alpha Protocol. Firstly, we have the ability to interact with a wide cast of characters and earn reputations with each of them, which will influence the way they interact with your character as you progress through the storyline. Or, if you wish, almost all of them can be killed, which will of course eliminate them from the rest of the game if you choose to take that path.

On top of that, we of course have the aforementioned skill allocation. Whenever Mike levels up, he'll gain a number of advancement points to throw in a variety of skills, and this specialisation will let players change the way Mike handles each mission as you go through the game.

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GS AU: What kind of weapons can players expect in Alpha Protocol?

MR: In the game, Mike Thorton can raise his skill in pistols, SMGs, shotguns, and assault rifles. Each of these weapons fits a certain profile: pistols are short range but can be equipped with silencers for stealth takedowns; SMGs are great for taking out crowds of enemies; shotguns have fantastic stopping power and can knock enemies off their feet with a critical hit; and assault rifles are highly accurate at long range. Each of these weapons has three different types of ammo that it can be used with.

In addition to the firearms, though, there are a number of lethal gadgets, including explosive grenades, incendiary grenades, remote mines, and a number of nonlethal devices, including tranq rounds for your pistols, flashbangs, shock traps, and so on.

Mike can also choose to specialise in martial arts, which will let him unleash some pretty devastating combos and special attacks in close-quarters combat.

But wait, there's more. Some levels will have missile launchers, MG turrets, sniper rifles, and even automatic turrets that Mike can hack and turn on his enemies.