APB Reloaded (2011)

APB Reloaded, also known as All Points Bulletin, is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) that set out to create a dynamic urban combat experience. Often recognized for its ambitious design, the game anticipated features similar to those found in later open-world online games, including mechanics reminiscent of what would later appear in titles like GTA Online. Despite sharing its name with the 1987 arcade game, APB Reloaded has no direct connection to that earlier title.

Development and Release

Initially, APB required a purchase to access, but the original version eventually shut down. Following a relaunch, the game adopted a free-to-play model, allowing a wider audience to engage with its content. After several years of updates and improvements, the game expanded to console platforms, with a PlayStation 4 release in the spring of 2017, seven years after its original launch. This version brought the game’s distinctive urban multiplayer combat to console players for the first time.

Gameplay Overview

Players in APB Reloaded choose to join one of two major factions: the Enforcers or the Criminals. Each faction is designed to reflect a unique approach to gameplay, with the Enforcers focusing on law enforcement and order, while the Criminals engage in illegal activities and urban dominance. Within these factions, players can form smaller subgroups, allowing for coordinated missions and team-based strategies.

The game world is centered on the city of San Paro, a densely populated urban environment where continuous conflict occurs between factions. Players navigate the city using a third-person perspective, participating in missions that pit two opposing teams against each other. These missions involve a variety of objectives, ranging from territory control to targeted attacks, utilizing a comprehensive arsenal of weapons, vehicles, and other tools. The character’s equipment and weapons are acquired through in-game terminals, which function similarly to automated vending machines, providing accessibility and strategic options for loadout customization.

Objectives and Player Progression

The primary goal in APB Reloaded is to establish dominance within the city, striving to become the most influential and formidable presence in one’s neighborhood. Players engage in continuous battles for control, completing missions to gain reputation, unlock new gear, and strengthen their faction’s position. Progression is tied to both personal skill and team coordination, requiring players to effectively manage resources, vehicles, and weaponry to succeed in a highly competitive environment.

Unique Features

• Faction-Based Gameplay: Players align with either Enforcers or Criminals, influencing their objectives and available strategies.
• Urban Combat Environment: The game takes place in San Paro, a modern city filled with interactive streets and locations for dynamic encounters.
• Team Missions: Subgroups within factions allow players to coordinate in missions against rival teams.
• Customizable Equipment: Weapons and gear are acquired through terminals, enabling tailored loadouts for different combat scenarios.
• Third-Person Perspective: The game’s camera provides a comprehensive view of both character and environment for tactical awareness.

Conclusion

APB Reloaded delivers a structured yet open urban combat experience where strategic faction play, team cooperation, and individual skill define success. Its combination of free-to-play accessibility, detailed city environment, and mission-based multiplayer gameplay establishes it as a distinct and influential MMORPG, offering players a competitive platform for urban dominance and persistent faction warfare.

APB Reloaded is a chaotic, action-packed MMO where you can choose to be a law enforcer or a criminal. The city of San Paro feels alive, full of missions, cars, and fights that keep the gameplay exciting. It’s easy to jump in and start causing trouble or keeping the peace.

The game has its rough edges and can feel messy at times, but the customization and team-based missions make it worth trying. If you enjoy open-world PvP and want a free-to-play experience with lots of action, APB Reloaded delivers that well.

We recommend it for players who like fast-paced online battles and freedom to play their own way. It’s not perfect, but it’s fun enough to give it a shot.