Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex - First Assault Online was a squad-based first-person shooter (FPS) game featuring a selection of cybernetically-enhanced squad members from Section 9. The game offered various modes such as "Team Deathmatch" and "Demolition," providing a similar experience to Call of Duty's "Search and Destroy" mode. It offered unlockable content and a satisfying gameplay experience that could keep players engaged.

The game began with a simple tutorial that covered the basic FPS controls, ensuring players understood the mechanics. After completing the tutorial, players could choose from different characters, each with unique abilities. These abilities ranged from invisibility to arm transformations. Initially, players could only select one character, but they could unlock additional characters later using in-game currency or microtransactions.

Once ready to start the game, players could quickly join online matches by pressing the "DIVE" button. The gameplay involved navigating compact maps, engaging in combat, and fulfilling objectives based on the assigned side. The game followed the standard FPS formula but with some additional elements to keep it engaging. When killed, players had a brief respawn time before returning to the action. Playing with friends could enhance the enjoyment of the game.

However, it was important to note that new players might have encountered experienced opponents when first entering the game, which could be frustrating. To mitigate this, players could create custom matches with specific settings, allowing them to play against opponents of similar skill levels.

Despite its positive aspects, the game did have some issues. One major concern was the pay-to-win (P2W) nature of the game, as certain weapons were significantly stronger than others. This discrepancy could lead to encounters with players who had superior weapons, creating an unfair and frustrating experience, particularly for newcomers.

In terms of community features, the game offered basic options such as voice chat, regular chat, discussion boards, and forums. Additionally, there was a separate friends list system within the game, independent of the Steam friends list.

Graphically, the game performed adequately, but there was room for improvement. Visually, the game drew inspiration from futuristic Japan but lacked vibrancy, relying on a dull and monotonous color scheme that could become tedious over time. In terms of sound, the weapon firing sound effects were satisfying, and players could discern enemy positions through audio cues like footsteps. However, the enjoyable music from the main menu didn't continue during gameplay, which could have been a missed opportunity.

All in all, Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex - First Assault Online was a solid FPS game with unique features that set it apart from other shooters. However, it did have some rough edges that could have been addressed through balance adjustments and visual upgrades. Fans of the Ghost in the Shell franchise were likely to have appreciated the game due to its connection to the source material.

However, the game didn't really live up to expectations and the developers have deeply rooted dissatisfaction with the game. Eventually, this led to the game being discontinued on December 6, 2017.