Concord seems to be shaping up as a promising addition to the hero shooter genre. While some may have initially dismissed it as another Overwatch clone, looks like the game has shown that it offers a unique and enjoyable gameplay experience. The ex-Bungie devs at Firewalk Studios have clearly left their mark on Concord, with the game featuring fast-paced, mobility-focused gameplay reminiscent of Destiny 2. The emphasis on quickly cycling through weapons and abilities adds an exciting layer to the combat that sets it apart from other hero shooters. With 16 diverse characters at launch, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles, Concord promises to offer a deep and varied gameplay experience. The absence of ultimates in favor of focusing on weapon and ability usage is a refreshing change that I personally appreciated. The character selection system, which rewards players for trying out different roles throughout a match, also adds an interesting strategic element to the game. It’s a mechanic that encourages flexibility and adaptability, which could lead to more dynamic and engaging matches. On the flip side, the personalities of the characters in Concord didn’t quite resonate with me. While the developers intend to flesh out the characters through weekly cutscenes, the initial impression of them being “regular people” felt somewhat underwhelming. However, this could evolve over time as the game develops. Overall, Concord looks and runs great on the PS5, and its upcoming beta will provide a good opportunity for players to get a feel for the game before its full release. With its scheduled launch on both PS5 and PC, it’ll be interesting to see how the game fares across different platforms. In conclusion, Concord has the potential to carve out its own space in the hero shooter genre, offering a fresh take on the formula with its focus on mobility, varied characters, and strategic gameplay mechanics. Keep an eye out for its release on August 23.