Rumour: Dead Space 3 Includes Online Co-Op

If you were hoping the heavily rumoured Dead Space 3 would return to the isolation that defined the original title, it’s probably best to stop dreaming. Rumours spewing out of IGN overnight have hinted that the title will feature online drop-in/drop-out co-op. Hmm.

Apparently the plot will be near identical depending on whether you play the game alone or with a partner, the story will just shift to tell the tale of two survivors rather than one. Players will be able to solve puzzles together, share ammo and heal each other. You won’t, however, be able to revive each other – presumably to maintain the tension of the supposedly survival horror experience.

When playing in co-op, some of the cut-scenes will change too. Protagonist Isaac Clarke will still struggle with his mental health issues, but not to the same extent as he does alone. Some pundits are speculating that Clarke’s co-op partner will actually be a figment of his imagination, which would be a neat narrative device.

From a gameplay perspective, Isaac will now be able to crouch to take cover. Apparently, the game’s weapons have also been completely overhauled.

We trust Visceral to maintain the sense of tension that has been present throughout each of the Dead Space titles thus far, but we’re not expecting this sequel to be anywhere near as claustrophobic. We’ll find out for certain at E3, when Dead Space 3 is certain to get announced during EA’s press conference.