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T.R.A.G., also known as Tactical Rescue Assault Group: Mission of Mercy, is a PlayStation game released in 1998 by Sunsoft. This action-adventure game combines elements of puzzle-solving and tactical combat, set against a backdrop of a hostage rescue mission. Although not as well-known as some of its contemporaries, T.R.A.G. holds a unique place in gaming history due to its innovative mechanics and engaging narrative.

Story

T.R.A.G. is set in the near future, in a world where multinational corporations wield immense power. A terrorist group has taken over the Togusa Building, an advanced research facility owned by the company Togusa Industries. The terrorists, led by the enigmatic and ruthless head, have taken hostages, including the daughter of the building’s owner. In response, the Tactical Rescue Assault Group is called in to neutralize the threat and save the hostages.

Players step into the roles of four distinct characters, each with unique skills and perspectives. The primary protagonist, Alex, is a skilled and determined leader of the rescue operation. Joining him are Michelle, a sharpshooter with a keen eye; Burns, a former wrestler whose strength is unmatched; and Rachel, a tech-savvy operative with a knack for hacking and electronics. Together, they must navigate the complex layout of the Togusa Building, overcome the terrorists’ traps, and uncover the true motives behind the hostage situation.

The story unfolds through a series of cutscenes and encounters, each revealing more about the characters’ backgrounds and the terrorists’ intentions. As players progress, they discover that the situation is more complicated than a mere hostage crisis, with corporate espionage and personal vendettas adding layers of intrigue to the narrative.

Gameplay

The gameplay in T.R.A.G. is a blend of action and puzzle-solving, set within a 3D environment. Players control the characters from a third-person perspective, navigating through the various floors of the Togusa Building. The game’s controls are relatively straightforward, with options for movement, combat, and interaction with the environment.

One of the game’s standout features is the ability to switch between the four characters at will, each offering different abilities that are crucial to overcoming the game’s challenges. Alex serves as the all-rounder, proficient in combat and problem-solving. Michelle excels in ranged combat, able to take down enemies from a distance with her sniper rifle. Burns’s strength allows him to break through barriers and overcome physical obstacles, while Rachel’s technical expertise enables her to hack into security systems and unlock doors.

The puzzles in T.R.A.G. are diverse and often require players to think critically about which character to use in a given situation. This mechanic adds a layer of strategy, as players must decide how to best utilize each character’s strengths to progress. The combat system is straightforward, with players engaging in real-time battles against the terrorists using a variety of weapons and hand-to-hand combat techniques.

The game’s level design is intricate, with multiple paths and hidden areas to explore. This encourages players to thoroughly investigate their surroundings and rewards them with additional items and storyline insights. The balance between combat and puzzle-solving keeps the gameplay engaging and prevents it from becoming monotonous.

Graphics and Sound

For its time, T.R.A.G. offered impressive graphics that made full use of the PlayStation’s capabilities. The environments are detailed and atmospheric, effectively conveying the high-stakes tension of the hostage situation. Character models are well-designed, each with distinct features and animations that add to their personalities.

The use of pre-rendered backgrounds, a common technique in PlayStation games of that era, lends a sense of depth and realism to the game world. The lighting effects and textures are particularly noteworthy, creating a moody and immersive environment that enhances the narrative’s suspense.

The sound design in T.R.A.G. complements its visual elements, with a dynamic soundtrack that underscores the game’s tension and urgency. The music shifts to reflect the mood of each scene, from the adrenaline-pumping beats of combat to the quieter, more contemplative tunes during puzzle-solving segments. Voice acting is used sparingly but effectively, with each character’s voice fitting their personality and adding to the overall immersion.

Legacy and Reception

Upon its release, T.R.A.G. received mixed reviews from critics and players alike. Many praised the game’s innovative character-switching mechanic and engaging narrative, noting that it offered a fresh take on the action-adventure genre. The combination of combat and puzzle-solving was also well-received, providing a balanced and varied gameplay experience.

However, some critics pointed out the game’s control scheme and camera angles as areas needing improvement. The fixed camera angles, a staple of the era’s games, sometimes made navigation and combat more challenging than intended. Additionally, the game’s graphics, while impressive for the time, have not aged as gracefully as some of its peers.

Despite these criticisms, T.R.A.G. has maintained a cult following among fans of classic PlayStation titles. Its unique blend of action, strategy, and storytelling has kept it relevant, even as gaming technology has evolved. The game’s influence can be seen in later titles that incorporate character-switching mechanics and hybrid gameplay.

Conclusion

T.R.A.G. stands as a testament to the ambitious design and storytelling that characterized many late 1990s video games. While it may not have reached the commercial success of some of its contemporaries, it remains an intriguing and enjoyable experience for those who appreciate a blend of action, puzzle-solving, and narrative depth.

Its legacy is one of innovation and experimentation, showcasing the potential of video games to tell complex stories through interactive means. As a part of gaming history, T.R.A.G. continues to be remembered fondly by those who played it, serving as a reminder of the PlayStation era’s creativity and willingness to push boundaries. For players seeking a retro gaming experience that offers both challenge and intrigue, T.R.A.G. is certainly worth revisiting.