Deus Ex: Human Revolution gets Augmented

The Deus Ex series has always focused on giving players choices to customize their playing experience. For the upcoming Deus Ex: Human Revolution, Square Enix is presenting players with choices to customize their purchasing experience as well.

Square Enix today announced a premium Augmented Edition of the sci-fi sequel, as well as a pair of add-on packs that will be given to gamers who preorder from participating retailers. Retailing for $10 more than the standard edition of the game, the Augmented Edition bundle will include premium packaging for the game, a 40-page art book, a DVD with behind-the-scenes features, and a motion graphic novel included on a bonus disc.

As for the add-ons, GameStop has exclusive dibs on the Explosive Mission Pack. Players who preorder from the specialty retailer will get a new mission (with a cameo from original Deus Ex protagonist JC Denton), as well as in-game assists in the form of a grenade launcher, remotely detonated explosives, and an automatic unlocking device. Other participating retailers will be offering the Tactical Enhancement Pack, which includes a sniper rifle, a shotgun, and in-game credits that can be spent on augmenting the main character.

The third installment in the series, Human Revolution will return to the franchise's roots in a number of ways. The game's story will be a prequel set in the year 2027, just as "human augmentation"--enhanced abilities through technological implants--is starting to enter wide use.

Developer Eidos Montreal is attempting to stay true to the original game, allowing players to choose their own approach to each level. Depending on the augmentations players choose, they can go through each part of the game with a focus on combat, stealth, hacking, or even social interactions.

Deus Ex: Human Revolution is set for release early next year on the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and PC. For more on the game, check out GameSpot's previous coverage.