Is Deus Ex: Human Revolution a Prequel? Unraveling the Timeline
The question of whether Deus Ex: Human Revolution is a prequel can be answered definitively: yes, it is a prequel. It serves as a foundational story in the Deus Ex universe, set before the events of the original Deus Ex (2000). While many series offer prequels as optional expansions, Human Revolution’s place is crucial to understanding the overarching narrative and world-building of the franchise. Its events significantly shape the political and technological landscape that players encounter in later installments. This article will explore the prequel status of Human Revolution, along with other frequently asked questions about the series, to help fans navigate this intricate cyberpunk world.
The Prequel Nature of Deus Ex: Human Revolution
Setting the Stage: Before the Nano-Augmented Era
Human Revolution is set in 2027, roughly 25 years before the events of the original Deus Ex, which is set in 2052. This puts it firmly in the position of a prequel, showcasing the rise of augmentation technology and the ensuing social and political upheaval that lead to the world seen in the first game. This context is critical, as it allows players to witness the early days of augmentation technology and the origins of the various factions and conspiracies that dominate the franchise.
A Standalone Story With Context
While Human Revolution operates as a standalone experience, it provides essential backstory for the original game. You don’t need to have played any prior titles to understand the plot, thanks to the developers designing the story in this way and even providing a recap video. Yet, it still functions as a vital part of the larger Deus Ex tapestry, enriching the experience for those who play the franchise chronologically.
Why Play Human Revolution First?
For those new to the series, starting with Human Revolution is often recommended. It offers a gentler introduction to the complex themes and mechanics of the Deus Ex universe, and is more effective for understanding the overarching narrative that the game seeks to establish. The original Deus Ex drops players directly into the future without this historical context. Therefore, Human Revolution helps players understand the technological and political climate of the series.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Deus Ex: Mankind Divided a prequel?
No, Deus Ex: Mankind Divided is not a prequel. It’s a direct sequel to Human Revolution, set two years after in 2029. It continues the story of Adam Jensen and further explores the sociopolitical consequences of augmentation technology.
2. Should I play the original Deus Ex before Human Revolution?
You don’t have to. Human Revolution is designed to be accessible to new players and acts as a prequel, so you don’t need the backstory. However, playing the original after Human Revolution can deepen your appreciation for the nuances and long-term ramifications of the events shown in the prequel.
3. Is Deus Ex: Human Revolution a reboot?
Yes, it is considered a reboot. Eidos-Montréal boldly restarted the Deus Ex series with Human Revolution, retaining its core elements while introducing a modern approach to gameplay and narrative.
4. Is Deus Ex: Human Revolution canon?
Yes, the events of Human Revolution are canon. Additionally, The Human Revolution comic series is also considered canon. The events of the comics, however, are not referenced in any other title in the series.
5. Is Deus Ex: Human Revolution standalone?
Yes, the story was designed as a standalone experience. The technical and aesthetic improvements made by the development team allowed it to stand on its own while also enriching the overall narrative of the franchise.
6. Is Deus Ex: Mankind Divided after Human Revolution?
Yes, Mankind Divided is set after Human Revolution, specifically in 2029. This places it in a direct position to continue the storyline, further developing the themes introduced in its predecessor.
7. Which ending is canon in Deus Ex: Human Revolution?
Surprisingly, all endings of Human Revolution are canon. Mankind Divided acknowledges the key elements of different endings, specifically the destruction of Panchaea and the release of Hugh Darrow’s confession, implying all outcomes occurred.
8. Can I play Deus Ex: Human Revolution without playing the others?
Absolutely. Human Revolution includes a recap video of the game that acts as a prequel to the first game, ensuring that players aren’t lost. While prior knowledge enhances the experience, it’s not a prerequisite.
9. Which Deus Ex 1 ending is canon?
There is no definitive canon ending to the original Deus Ex. The story intentionally leaves this open-ended. Later installments don’t explicitly confirm one ending over another.
10. How long is the average playtime of Deus Ex: Human Revolution?
The average playtime for Deus Ex: Human Revolution is about 21½ hours focusing on main objectives. For players striving for 100% completion, this increases to around 44½ hours.
11. Which Deus Ex should I play first?
For newcomers, Deus Ex: Human Revolution is generally the best starting point. Its prequel status gives you necessary backstory and eases you into the lore and mechanics of the series.
12. In what order should you play Deus Ex?
A recommended play order is:
* Deus Ex: Human Revolution
* Deus Ex: Mankind Divided
* Deus Ex
* Deus Ex: Invisible War
* Deus Ex: The Fall
This order allows you to understand the narrative chronologically.
13. What is the controversy with Deus Ex?
Deus Ex: Mankind Divided faced criticism for using the word “apartheid” in its marketing, due to the historical connotations associated with racial segregation in South Africa.
14. Is Deus Ex part of cyberpunk?
Yes, Deus Ex is a prime example of the cyberpunk genre, featuring a dystopian future with advanced technology, social inequality, and corporate control.
15. Does killing bosses count in Deus Ex: Human Revolution?
No. In terms of the Pacifist achievement in Deus Ex: Human Revolution, killing bosses does not count against you. This is distinct from other encounters in the game.
Conclusion
Deus Ex: Human Revolution is not just a prequel; it is a critical entry point to the series. By understanding its role in the timeline and the various facets of its gameplay and narrative, you can better appreciate the rich, intricate world of the Deus Ex franchise. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a newcomer, starting with Human Revolution will give you an excellent foundation for the series and a worthwhile gaming experience.