Quantum Break's gameplay sections can be divided into two distinct halves: enemy engagements and exploration. As in the narrative, the time travel theme is entrenched well in the gameplay, as Jack gradually gains several superhuman powers revolving around time over the course of Quantum Break. For instance, Jack gains the ability to run faster than time itself, slow it down in a specific area, and ensconce himself in a shield protecting against incoming fire. He can also highlight enemies and objects of interest in his immediate vicinity, throw a time-imploding grenade, and dodge through time. Each of these skills can be further improved upon by spending chronon charges; collectibles strewed about each of the stages. …show more content…
The absence of a snap-to-cover mechanic ensures a certain fluidity to the combat that is much appreciated and suits the acquired powers well. Other than that, Quantum Break functions as a standard cover-based shooter; Jack pops out of cover by pressing the aiming button. Remedy does a fine job in ensuring your opponents display the right amount of tactical awareness and aggressiveness. They won't overpower you completely, but idling behind the same piece of cover for extended periods of time isn't an optimal strategy. Jack has access to an arsenal of familiar weaponry, and he may carry one weapon from each class simultaneously; pistols, shotguns, and machine guns. In the end, not introducing weaponry inspired by the time traveling theme seems like a bit of a missed opportunity, as such weapons could differentiate Quantum Break's combat even more.
That is a responsibility that falls on Jack's powers. Each one functions as a different arrow in Jack's quiver of offensive capabilities, and you will need to them all, sometimes in conjunction with one another, in order to survive the later levels. Although the powers themselves differ offensively, they all encourage you to stay on the move. Together with the contextual cover system they ensure Quantum Break's combat remains fluid, favoring bold and aggressive deployment over a careful methodical one - it urges you to take the fight directly to the Monarch security