As for the story, well, it starts out being very cliche and then when the plot twists, it’s still very cliche. However, I’m guessing that there will be a surprise or two coming up that might even catch me off guard. At least I’m hoping there will be.

The other pieces including the sound, graphics and voice acting are all very well done. There was never a time where I was groaning in disgust or dismay at the writing or the delivery of the dialog. It’s all enjoyable and rarely did I skip through anything. There is an obviously re-usage of some of your character’s lines from time to time but not to the point of annoyance.

There is also a reputation system in the game that is based on how you approach interactions with the NPCs. A point is awarded or removed based on the NPC’s personality and reaction to how you deal with them. Flirting with a co-worker could lose you a point while bluffing might get you some respect and extra information. Each NPC has a dossier of information that accrues over time so you know what best works with them and what doesn’t. This can be vitally important because when certain NPC’s like or trust you, they allow you access to certain resources that are otherwise unavailable.

This is an interesting facet of the game and does have some minor impact on how things play out. Even email interactions are included into the reputation making for some thought-provoking situations. All interactions in conversation are timed and you are offered three or four options generally. They range from snarky to confident, joking to professional. Based on your choice, your character will respond to the other characters and this can lengthen or shorten a conversation on how the NPC reacts.

The game seems to combine elements that we have seen in other games including reputation, stealth, etc, into a well-blended and mostly balanced game experience.
Watch for the full GDN review of Alpha Protocol later this month after we put more time into it.