Hired Ops is an FPS that tries to be unique in the shooter game world. The game was launched on steam based on it's successful parent 'Contract wars' that used to be a browser based fps game built on Unity.
To be honest Hired Ops does not carry over the fun factor that Contract wars had and you feel many elements of gameplay either missing or incomplete.
Some unique features in the game are the options to buy abilities by going to a certain point in the map and also the peeking mechanics included while trying to shoot an enemy behind cover.
Gameplay feels a bit smooth but you will feel that the movement could have been a bit more fluid. Jumping to reach higher spots will feel painful with the game failing to either capture your jump input or failing to jump high enough to get there. There is no energy bar either which confused me as to why I could not jump high at times.
There are four classes to choose from before you enter the game. Your get unique abilities for each class and they are unlocked by playing as a certain class and levelling up. Hint: Do not go for the Assault class even if they look badass. Their abilities are just not worth it and you will find yourself cursing as you spend the past couple of hours going up the ranks for nothing.
There are 4 game modes to choose from. I spent a lot of time searching for a game in target designation and team elimination which were the modes I loved in the original game. Even if I manage to enter the game , I would find myself waiting for an extra 10 minutes until further gamers jumped in. Deathmatches are pretty popular and you can manage to find full servers almost in an instant.
Hired Ops also has a comprehensive weapon mod system, something that also made the original game very special. With additional attachments and special bullets available as you level up your gun. The cross hair ranging from green cross marks to red dots depends on the scope that you choose to load onto your gun.
The only thing that I found rich enough to keep playing a few more rounds was the visuals and the sound effects. Everything looks and sounds crisp. You feel like you are really there on the battle field and the intense feel is just there for you to experience.
Overall Hired Ops has managed to retain that charm from their parent game however in several aspects of the game, it lacks enough thrill to make you come back to it after a few days. But for a free game and if you find yourself some time to have some fun, do try this little piece of almost forgotten gem.
Score : 7/10
Get the game on steam for free.
