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Apocalypse
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Graphics & Sound:
The graphics in Apocalypse are pretty good, but you have got to get past the Prison Level to really appreciate them. As you progress through the city, the sewers, and so on, the scenery becomes more detailed and more impressive. They’ve got Bruce Willis down pat, though. He was motion-captured for the role of Trey Kincaid, so not only are his trademark expressions present, but his wisecracking attitude as well. There’s also a cool soundtrack featuring POE (of “Angry Johnny” fame), among others. Incidentally, POE also plays the character of Plague, one of the four Horsemen sent to destroy the earth.
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Gameplay:
The gameplay is really good once you get used to controlling the character. It’s a 3rd person 3D shooter with a slightly overhead view to it; it’s a bit awkward, but well worth the effort. I didn’t like Apocalypse at first, but as I progressed, I really started having fun. One notable feature is the way the camera angles change from time to time, depending on the area you are in. I’m not talking about the standard stuff either. There’s a point when you are in the sewers and you have to make your way down huge rock mountains. Basically, you free fall from one to the other. What a blast! Also, in the City level, notice the huge screens which will appear before you a la Madison Square Gardens. If you stop right when you see them, you can listen and watch a video of one of the musicians featured in the game, without being attacked by enemies. Ahh - a momentary safe haven. Pretty cool!
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Difficulty:
Like I said earlier, it’s hard to get used to the control. You use the D-Pad to determine which way you’ll shoot. Meaning, if you press up on the D-Pad, he’ll shoot in front of him. If you press the Right, he’ll aim/shoot to his right. I guess it’s an above view control, but it was a bit strange. Once I got the hang of it, I just went wailing through the levels killing everything! There are a lot of power-ups located throughout the levels, so look for them and load up. Your weapons are interchangeable using your inventory feature, so stock up on the good stuff to battle the tanks. Most enemies die pretty easy, though.
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Game Mechanics:
Apocalypse is Dual Shock Analog controller compatible, which is very nice. And as I said earlier, there is a learning curve involved. You use your D-Pad to direct your gunfire as opposed to your character’s movements. It reminded me a bit of Loaded, but way better. My recommendation - use something that thumps with this game. Be it a Wrist Rumbler, Dual Shock controller, Reality Vest, or the ultimate, an Intensor, you’ll have a lot more fun this way. Trey likes to blow things up, you see...
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-Psibabe, GameVortex Communications AKA Ashley Perkins |
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