Join the resistance
Like the two installments before it, Watch Dogs: Legion focuses on hackers attempting to take down ctOS, a security system that invades people’s lives. Though this series entry doesn’t stray far from the Watch Dogs formula, it breaks from the past by letting you play as multiple characters found in the open world. This design choice prevents you from bonding with the protagonist, but it serves the greater narrative of people uniting to stop an oppressive power. Combine that with the series’ trademark hacking mechanic, and you have the strongest Watch Dogs title yet. Unfortunately, the PC game suffers inconsistent frame rates. Big Brother Watches Watch Dogs: Legion’s London is a police state in all but name. Though citizens go about their normal lives, the city’s cameras, drones, and countless other surveillance systems connected to the ctOS network watch their every move. DedSec, a hacker group, fights to undermine the ctOS’ proliferation. However, DedSec’s efforts become increasingly difficult when it’s blamed for terrorist attacks across London. As a result, the group not only fights to destroy an oppressive regime, but to clear its name. The ctOS system robs London’s citizens of their freedom, but it aids your quest to thwart the Albion corporation that manages the security system. Using your character’s smartphone, you hack into security cameras, hijack drones, control spiderbots, disable security alarms, and arm traps. As before, hacking is easy. All that you need to do is press the dedicated hack button when you see a prompt over a hackable object. Hacking a camera instantly shifts the game perspective to its point of view. The same applies to spiderbots and drones. In terms of gameplay, you effectively become the object. It’s entirely possible to complete some missions without ever moving your character. Hacking a camera and using spiderbots and drones to complete objectives stealthily is extremely satisfying. Hacking into systems won’t be enough to complete particular missions since some doors and barriers carry added security. In these instances, you must download a key to open barred doors. Other times, you must find a door’s power source and disable it. These challenges often require you to physically find keys or power junctions. In addition, you may need to solve puzzles or complete mini-games to advance. This may include maneuvering a spiderbot through ventilation shafts or remotely connecting electric lines. All of this keeps the game fresh, as each mission contains its own set of unique challenges. Power to the People Whether it’s an unassuming businessman, soccer hooligan, fashionable bar hopper, or construction worker, you’re free to recruit almost anyone walking London’s streets. After scanning a citizen with your smartphone, you’ll see that person’s personal profile and special abilities. Some are expert hackers, while others excel at reconnaissance. If a mission requires stealth, you’ll want someone with infiltration skills. When going up against armed Albion security, a weapons expert sees you through engagements. Should your character fall in battle, you must switch over to another recruit. Some recruits, such as lawyers and EMT workers, can help jailed or injured teammates quickly rejoin your roster. Though each of the characters deliver the same lines of dialogue during cutscenes, they all have distinct voices, accents, and mannerisms. What you lose in a central protagonist you gain with a roster of characters who have a stake in London’s affairs. Each area has citizens that specialize in different fields. You’ll find hackers in Camden, lawyers and CEOs in the City of London, and athletes in Hyde Park. Need a doctor? Scout hospitals. A construction worker? Scope out a construction site. Green icons on the world map show the locations of skilled individuals. When you liberate a borough from Albion’s influence, you’ll gain access to the best recruits available.
