Mirror's Edge prototype now playable with new details

Mirror's Edge, the iconic parkour game, has now had its original prototype made playable. This early version of the game offers a fascinating look at the development of what eventually became a beloved title. Fans of the series put in invaluable work to make this prototype, first shared in 2019, playable again.

About the prototype

This particular build is an early PlayStation 3 version and was previously unusable due to major technical issues. Through extensive reverse engineering and hundreds of fixes, this version is finally playable. The prototype retains some of the original game's strengths, but it also differs greatly in presentation and content.

Key technical improvements

• The damaged EBOOT fSELF format has been repaired.

• 306 corrupted functions have been replaced with working versions.

• Unreal Engine package issues have been resolved.

The prototype gameplay video was uploaded by a user named Softsoundd on YouTube, adding to the available information about this early game build.

New and notable elements

In this early build, even the lighting seen in the final version is missing, adding to the bleak atmosphere. One notable addition is an opening monologue from protagonist Faith, which does not appear in the final release. The monologue, which reads: "In this city of mirrors, the edge is where you still have a choice," offers a different perspective on the game's story.

Gameplay and extra features

Beyond the monologue, there are other gameplay elements worth exploring. For example, the builds show enemies blocking melee attacks at certain moments, and Faith has an uppercut move she can perform while crouched. There is also a gruesome disarm animation demonstration in which Faith breaks an enemy's arm to take his weapon.

In addition, the prototype includes a time trial in the sewers that was never included in the final retail version of the game. This says a lot about the rich gameplay elements that were lost in the final release.

Mirror's Edge remains a fascinating example of gaming's evolution and the impact the game has had on the genre. The prototypes and discoveries around this version continue to fuel fans' love for this unique franchise.