TimeSplitters 2: A Timeless Classic

In the 'Why I Love' series on GamesIndustry.biz, game developers share their appreciation for each other's work. This piece is contributed by Joe Henson, game designer and marketing director at Digital Cybercherries, the studio behind Hypercharge: Unboxed on Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One. Looking back on his gaming-filled childhood, Henson recalls the countless memories he's made with remarkable games, but one title consistently stands out - TimeSplitters 2. This first-person shooter, developed by Free Radical Design, may not have had a deeply compelling narrative, but it excelled in other areas, offering a rich variety of game modes, including a co-operative story campaign, player-versus-player modes, and the innovative MapMaker feature. The game's wealth of unlockables, diverse arsenal of weapons, and satisfying gameplay experience have made it a treasured classic. One game mode, in particular, holds a special place in Henson's heart - Virus, a tag-based mode where one player starts as the 'infected,' and the objective is to evade infection as long as possible. He fondly recalls the thrill of playing Virus, both alone with AI bots and in split-screen with friends, and the laughter-filled moments in co-op mode. TimeSplitters 2's legacy of innovation continues to influence modern shooter design, and its impact can be seen in Digital Cybercherries' own title, Hypercharge: Unboxed. For Henson, TimeSplitters 2 is more than just a game - it's a comprehensive, engaging experience that combined action, customization, and diverse game modes, making it a true classic in the realm of first-person shooters.