Prototype is a multi-platform computer game in the Action genre with a third-person perspective. Developed by Radical Entertainment and published by Activision (Soft Club in Russia). Prototype was released in June 2009 on three major platforms: PC, Xbox 360, and PlayStation 3.
The storyline revolves around a dangerous virus unleashed by the American military during the height of the Cold War. During the experiments, a failure occurs, and the dangerous strain escapes, infecting the entire population of a small town. To prevent the further spread of the dangerous disease, brave soldiers completely burn down the city. However, some local residents manage to survive the horrific catastrophe. Some escaped, while others were captured and sent to top-secret laboratories.
Forty years later, the virus re-emerges, but not in the deserted areas of the U.S., rather in the densely populated New York City. The metropolis is plunged into chaos, filled with militarized groups, and cordons are set up along the perimeter, which are strictly prohibited to cross. If the border is violated, soldiers open fire with deadly intent. The main action takes place within the city of skyscrapers. The main character is a man named Alex Mercer, who remembers almost nothing about his past life, but knows one thing – something terrible has been done to him, so much so that he is barely holding on to his sanity when he realizes his new identity.
Yes, the virus has turned Mercer into a true mutant. Soldiers, supported by armored vehicles, special forces from the "Black Watch" unit, and other infected beings begin hunting him down. As events unfold, Mercer realizes that not everything is as simple as it seemed at first glance. Nevertheless, Mercer's primary task is to save his own skin – a nuclear charge is about to be dropped on New York, and only someone with superhuman abilities can resist this radical move by the army.
From the very beginning, players can explore the metropolis, completing both main and side quests. Mercer's unique skills, triggered by the virus, allow him to leap vast distances and literally run up walls. Additionally, the main character can grow tentacles and claws, increase muscle mass, and cover himself from head to toe in impenetrable armor. Another significant feature of Mercer is that he can consume nearby humans, thereby restoring his health. One more advantage of this form of cannibalism lies in Alex's ability to transform after an absorption act. For instance, by consuming a soldier, Alex Mercer can take on his appearance and clothing, subsequently sneaking past particularly dangerous cordons.