Xonotic

Xonotic is a fast-paced, free and open-source arena first-person shooter set in a futuristic sci-fi universe. Forked from Nexuiz after development controversies, it runs on a heavily modified Quake engine and offers Quake-inspired gameplay described as ‘easy to play but hard to master.’ Players engage in high-speed combat across modes like Deathmatch and Capture the Flag, utilizing 16 versatile weapons with alternate fire modes while mastering advanced movement mechanics like strafe jumping and rocket jumping in high-tech environments.

Xonotic: Review

In the pantheon of first-person shooters, few games have managed to capture the essence of classic arena-style gameplay while also pushing the boundaries of what open-source software can achieve. Xonotic, released in 2011, stands as a testament to the power of community-driven development and the enduring appeal of fast-paced, skill-based competition. This review will delve into the game’s legacy, development history, narrative themes, gameplay mechanics, world-building, reception, and ultimate place in video game history.

Introduction

Xonotic is more than just a game; it is a rebellion against the corporate co-option of open-source software. Born from the ashes of controversy surrounding its predecessor, Nexuiz, Xonotic has carved out a niche for itself as a free, open-source first-person shooter that prioritizes community involvement and technical innovation. This review aims to explore the multifaceted nature of Xonotic, from its development history to its gameplay mechanics, and ultimately argue that it deserves a place among the greats in the FPS genre.

Development History & Context

The Studio and Creators’ Vision

Xonotic was developed by Team Xonotic, a collective of passionate developers and community members who were disillusioned with the direction taken by Nexuiz. The original creators of Nexuiz, Lee Vermeulen and Ashley Hale, envisioned a game that was truly free, both in terms of cost and in the sense of open-source software. However, in March 2010, Vermeulen secretly licensed the Nexuiz name and domain to IllFonic, a commercial game studio, to develop a proprietary version for consoles using the CryEngine 3. This move bypassed the community entirely and violated the spirit of the GNU General Public License (GPL), sparking widespread outrage.

Technological Constraints and Gaming Landscape

The gaming landscape in 2011 was dominated by big-budget, proprietary titles. Games like Call of Duty and Battlefield were the go-to choices for FPS enthusiasts. In this context, Xonotic’s decision to remain open-source and community-driven was a bold one. The game runs on a heavily modified version of the Quake engine, known as the DarkPlaces engine, which allowed for advanced graphics and physics capabilities that were comparable to commercial titles of the time.

Narrative & Thematic Deep Dive

Plot and Characters

Xonotic is not a game that relies heavily on narrative or character development. Instead, it focuses on providing a pure, adrenaline-pumping experience. The game features a single-player campaign that serves as a tutorial for new players, introducing them to the various game modes and weapons. However, the real meat of Xonotic lies in its multiplayer modes, where the story is secondary to the thrill of competition.

Dialogue and Themes

The dialogue in Xonotic is minimal, consisting mostly of in-game chat and announcements. The game’s themes revolve around community, freedom, and the pursuit of excellence. The developers have emphasized the importance of community involvement, with the game’s development being driven by the contributions of its players. This ethos is reflected in the game’s design, which prioritizes skill-based gameplay and fair competition.

Gameplay Mechanics & Systems

Core Gameplay Loops

Xonotic features a variety of game modes, including classic modes like Deathmatch, Capture The Flag, and Clan Arena, as well as more unique modes like Nexball and Freeze Tag. The gameplay is fast-paced, with an emphasis on movement and player physics. Techniques like strafe jumping, bunny hopping, and rocket jumping are essential for mastering the game.

Combat and Character Progression

Combat in Xonotic is characterized by its fluidity and responsiveness. The game features 16 full weapons, each with a primary and secondary fire mode. Weapons have special abilities that increase tactical options, such as the Blaster’s ability to launch players into the air or the Crylink’s bouncing projectiles. Character progression is not a traditional leveling system but rather a mastery of movement and weapon mechanics.

UI and Innovative Systems

The user interface in Xonotic is highly customizable, allowing players to tailor their Heads-Up Display (HUD) to their exact preferences. The game also features an integrated statistics system, XonStats, which tracks player performance and provides detailed analytics. This level of customization and data-driven feedback is a testament to the game’s commitment to community involvement and continuous improvement.

World-Building, Art & Sound

Setting and Atmosphere

Xonotic’s setting is a futuristic, high-tech environment that serves as the backdrop for its fast-paced action. Maps are designed with a focus on speed and fluid movement, featuring a mix of futuristic technology and broken-down bricks and pipes. The game’s visual direction is consistent and impressive, with dynamic lighting, shadowing, and high-dynamic-range rendering that create a visually stunning experience.

Visual Direction

The game’s art style is a blend of futuristic and industrial aesthetics, with a color palette that ranges from neon blues and purples to gritty greys and blacks. The maps are designed to be both visually appealing and functionally sound, with a focus on providing a variety of gameplay experiences.

Sound Design

The sound design in Xonotic is top-notch, with a soundtrack that complements the game’s fast-paced action. The sound effects are crisp and satisfying, from the thud of a shotgun blast to the whizz of a rocket launcher. The game’s audio design contributes significantly to its immersive experience.

Reception & Legacy

Critical and Commercial Reception

Upon its release, Xonotic received praise for its gameplay and graphics. Phoronix declared it “one of the most visually-impressive open-source games available,” while Softpedia hailed it as “the Best Free Multiplayer FPS Linux Can Muster.” The game’s community of both players and developers was noted for its sense of belonging and shared purpose.

Influence on Subsequent Games and the Industry

Xonotic’s influence can be seen in the continued development of open-source games and the emphasis on community involvement in game development. The game’s success has inspired other developers to explore the possibilities of open-source software in the gaming industry, leading to a proliferation of free and open-source titles.

Conclusion

Xonotic is a game that defies expectations. Born from controversy and driven by a passionate community, it has carved out a niche for itself as a premier open-source first-person shooter. Its commitment to community involvement, technical innovation, and pure, skill-based gameplay makes it a standout title in the FPS genre. Xonotic’s legacy is one of rebellion, resilience, and the power of open-source software. It is a game that deserves to be remembered and celebrated for its contributions to the world of gaming.