TWISTED METAL (2012) REVIEW

TWISTED METAL

Dev/Pub: EatSleepPlay, SCEA

Released: Feb 14 2012

Genre: Car Combat

Platforms: PS3

Ah, Twisted Metal. A video game dynasty that has seen more ups and downs than Wall Street. The series has given us amazing games like the original 1995 release, but has also churned out a few forgettable turds as well (numero tres anyone?). Upon hearing rumor of a reboot I, along with almost every other 20 something gamer, was thrilled. Car combat seems to have been extinct in the past 5 years or so. So have we been granted a title worthy of bearing the TM name, or have the gaming gods raped our childhood memories like Michael Bay?

'

Thats for Transformers 2 dick!

Right off the bat, you'll notice a few differences. The biggest (and most disappointing) being a lack of characters. The TM franchise has always been defined by its' eclectic mix of psychopaths. It seems the days of playing a dozen characters (even the shitty ones) are long gone. In this installment, the focus is on only three individuals. While at first I was pissed to discover only Sweet Tooth, Dollface, and Mr Grimm were the sole playable characters, it eventually became acceptable. Only focusing on three of the series heavy hitters seems to result in a much more coherent and focused story for each. Each story is revealed in surprisingly well done live action videos. For the most part, the clips avoid being cheesy and are sometimes downright scary. The creative minds at EatSleepPlay saved what could have been a huge slap in the face of fans into a forgivable annoyance.

Visually, the game is pretty damn solid. Most of the levels catch that classic TM feel. Vehicles and weapon effects aren't anything revolutionary but still look great overall. Most maps are well designed and have some really cool details. From what I can hear over the sound of engines and explosions, the soundtrack is good. I don't care who you are, blowing shit up while "Straight Outta Compton" plays is what our Founding Fathers intended American life to be.

The story mode offers some really fun (and at times difficult) challenges. This time around, characters are not bound to one vehicle. Seeing Sweet Tooth driving Crimson Fury or Dollface on Mr. Grimm's Reaper motorcycle is a little odd at first, but eventually you don't even pay attention. Hell, theres even a helicopter in the mix now. I can't play for shit with it, but its still a nice notion. It is very easy to get absorbed in the action. I think the combat itself hits all the right spots. The controls take a little getting used to, but after the first few matches you'll be set.

Yep

Now, getting to my personal favorite part; The multiplayer! This is strange coming from me because I am not much for online gaming. In fact, every time I play any game online, I pray for a disease that selectively kills spoiled 12 year olds and drunken frat bros.The downside of more people playing games than ever before is...well...most people are fucking stupid. There really needs to be a mandatory IQ test for people to buy headsets. But I digress. The multiplayer in this game is simply awesome. Be warned, you will get your ass handed to you quite a bit at first. This game requires a mix of reflexes and clever strategy. Most engagements can be described as dogfights on wheels. You aren't going to take anyone down with a shot or two. In TM deathmatches, outwitting and wearing down your opponent is the name of the game. At first it may feel as though every player but you is an immortal badass. This is false. Any advantage in this game can be mitigated with the right know-how.Using the right combination of skill and quick thinking, a guy on a motorcycle can take a chopper right out of the sky. The learning curve can be a bit steep, but the payoff of hearing a grown man's voice crack from pure butthurt is rich indeed.

In conclusion, Twisted Metal is a great investment for those wanting something relatively different. The game isn't perfect, but is still one of the best releases in recent memory. If you've never experienced a vehicular combat game, punch yourself in the face and then go buy this. TM is definitely firing on all cylinders.

BY THE NUMBERS

Sound/Visuals: Nothing mind-blowing here, but still looks good. Atmosphere is great on most maps. No complaints in the audio department. 8/10

Gameplay: Good challenge on higher difficulties. Multiplayer is a freakin' blast. Some may take a while to start winning matches, but the payoff for honing your skills is worth every "FUCK!" screamed after being vaporized by someone half your age. Eventually you'll make the little bastards cry if you stick with it. 9/10

Controls: Not sure if its just me, but the controls felt a little off  at first. The button layout is NOT made for twitch shooting. Treat this game like COD on wheels, and you'll only wind up dead. Controls are responsive and not too hard to use effectively after a while. 7/10

Plot: Twisted Metal is a truly spiritual allegory about our quest for love and salvation from the Lord Jesus. Not really though. The few story mode plots are more than adequate. No epic tales of redemption or dragonslaying here. Just three fucked-in-the-head psychos looking out for themselves. Anyone who expects this game to be Mass Effect is beyond hope. This game is all about speed and 'splosions (just like your local meth lab). 8/10

Replay Factor: This game is addictive to put it mildly. Its one of those games you sit down intending to play a match or two and, before you know it, 3 hours has passed. I predict this disc will spend plenty more time in my PS3. 9/10

TOTAL SCORE: 41/50

SERIOUS PEPE SAYS: Why are you still reading this bro? Go buy that shit now. Oh, and subscribe too.