Summary
Video games have come a long way since their earlier days, introducingmore realistic graphics, deep and intricate plot lines, and more interactive gameplay. But back in the days that the PS1 or PS2 were the new, hot consoles on the market, this wasn’t necessarily the case.
During this era, many games forced players to navigate 3D environments usingtank controls. These are considered clunky and somewhat difficult to master by today’s standards, but they are still a vital ingredient in many classic titles. Some more modern titles have even implemented this control scheme, allowing fans of classic games to experience some nostalgia while playing something from a more recent era.
For horror game makers, franchises likeSilent HillandResident Evilare fantastic sources of inspiration, crafting horrifyingly good experiences that throw players right into the heart of terror, where they will be confronted with eerie locations and monsters that are the stuff of nightmares. There have been many games that trace their inspiration back to one or both of these series, andTormented Soulsis an excellent example of this.
Main protagonist Caroline Walker is investigating the disappearance of two twins in a labyrinthian mansion, but she is not the only one stalking the dark and decrepit hallways. Despite being a pretty modern title, the game makes use of fixed camera angles to challenge players, as well as an optional tank control scheme. Those who grew up with older games will enjoy the nostalgic trip thatTormented Soulsoffers, and those unfamiliar with tank controls are free to revert to a more modern control setup if they are struggling.
Tomb Raiderhas become one of the most beloved and popular action-adventure games, seeing the archaeologist Lara Croft run and gun her way through various hazardous ruins and tombs all across the globe. The first game started the formula that was key to the series' success, but the second game improved upon all of it.
Tomb Raider 2sees Lara traveling to Italy and China in search of a dagger that is said to turn any who plunges the blade into their own heart into a dragon. The story and exploration are both excellent, but players will need to grapple with the tank controls to navigate Lara through these exciting locations. Thesecond installment improvedupon the original by implementing new features, such as climbing mechanics and vehicles for a more immersive experience.
Not all tank controls are relegated to older games only, as some developers allow gamers to take trips down memory lane.Signalisis one such title, a game verging into several genres, such as horror and shooter. In this game, players control an android in a futuristic setting, searching for their partner after they crash onto an alien planet.The multiple endingsprovide plenty of replayability, and the fun (though purposefully dated) gameplay will be enjoyable enough for fans to give it a second run and see what ending they can achieve next time around.
Paying homage to classic games of yore,Signalisfeatures pixelated graphics, resource management, and tank controls, which fit surprisingly well into this isometric indie horror title. It is guaranteed to make fans of games such as old-schoolResident Evilfeel right at home while also including enough of its own unique elements to set it apart from other titles.
Most adventure titles made use of point and click interfaces back when 2D games were the newest, hottest thing on the market. The migration to 3D rendered point and click controls completely extinct, but many studios decided to move with the times, LucasArts included.
Known for point and click titles such asThe Secret of Monkey Island, LucasArts leaned into the capability of 3D games, resulting in the creation ofGrim Fandango. Set in a creative take on the afterlife, players control Manny as he tries to aid the latestarrival to the land of the deadon her journey.Grim Fandangoplayers are encouraged to use tank controls to complete the game and will even be granted an achievement for doing so.
When thinking of tank controls, the originalResident Evilwill likely be the first thing to come to a gamer’s mind. The clunky control scheme and fixed camera angles are synonymous with earlier titles, and modern titles that implement these are often thought to be inspired by old-schoolResident Evil.
Set in aneerie and almost abandoned mansionin the mountains, the S.T.A.R.S. team is forced to flee inside to escape the killer dogs roaming the building’s exterior, only to stumble into endless nightmares. The fixed camera obscures what lies ahead, hanging players in suspense, and the tank controls only further elevate dread, as players may find themselves running towards the source of their terror rather than to safety. Coupled with the fact players need to choose between moving or shooting, it’s hard to deny thatResident Evilperfected the formula of tank controls in the horror genre.
Often touted as one of thebest psychological horror gamesof all time, anyone who has playedSilent Hill 2will be able to see why. The setting is the perfect backdrop for the tragic tale of James Sunderland, who returns to the city ofSilent Hillafter receiving a letter from his thought-to-be-dead wife. His exploration of the city brings him face-to-face with a menagerie of monsters, as well as other people, such as Maria, Laura, Angela, and Eddie.
Silent Hill 2is certainly a product of its time, featuring tank controls that players must use to navigate the various locations and a slow and steady combat system that requires patience. But it all fits perfectly into the story of James. He is not a trained fighter, so it makes sense that his movements would be somewhat clunky. Not only do the tank controls forSilent Hill 2work well regarding the character that players must control, but they also serve to elevate the horror that those unfamiliar with the control system can experience.
