Garena Free City, the latest addition to the developer's extensive lineup, is now open for pre-registration on iOS and Android devices in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. If you're eagerly awaiting the next installment in a certain iconic series, this game might just be the perfect interim fix.
Let's get straight to the point: Garena Free City is essentially Garena's rendition of Grand Theft Auto, set to launch on June 30th. Whether this is a positive or negative development hinges on your personal taste. At first glance, it might appear as a rather uninspired mobile clone of GTA, but a closer look reveals some promising features.
For starters, the game boasts a robust character customization system reminiscent of The Sims, allowing for detailed manipulation of individual features. Additionally, it diverges from the more realistic style of GTA, incorporating elements like giant robots and summonable power-ups, such as deployable cover.
Bold & BrashHowever, it's evident that Garena Free City is trying to replicate the allure of something like Grand Theft Auto Online, which is a pity because the more unconventional aspects are what truly catch the eye.
Unfortunately, Garena may have picked an inopportune moment to launch Free City. While I don't believe in the concept of a "killer app" within a single genre on mobile, Ananta, a major upcoming release, is also promising an expansive world and quirky sidequests, much like Free City, but with more flair.
Ananta distinguishes itself with its unique approach, though its anime aesthetic might not appeal to everyone. Conversely, my primary critique of Free City so far is its reluctance to fully embrace its distinctiveness.
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