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By Lonnie on December 22nd, 2001
Introduction For the 2nd time in the past year we have seen an attempt to recreate what four wheeling is all about. Only this time its done well. Cabelas 4x4 was really slow and annoyingly mis-accurate. Screamer seems to take advantage of this downfall and bring to us one hell of an interesting game.Presentation Gone are all the blazing glory tracks found in other games such as 4x4 Evo, and 1nsane. Screamer 4x4 pits you in realistic terrines where you are not battling top speed or another driver but true to life physics, gravity, and the every once in awhile you happen to blow an engine.Graphics & Sound Graphically, this game is sound. The environments are smooth with minimum popup. The trucks are realistically rendered too. Depending on your setup you may have some slight lag when trying to use Direct 3D. Personally I prefer Open GL over Glide but eh, thats just me. Music, now where is it? I have yet to find any outside of the menu. Engine sounds are somewhat digital and unrealistic but after all this is a budget video game.Gameplay There are absolutely no roads, tracks or driving around a set course. You are set inside your vehicle and giving the daunting task of navigating through the checkpoints as fast as you can. However, this game does move slow. You must actually use your mind and manipulate the course as you would in real life. Believe me its not easy. There are ten licensed 4WD vehicles with six terrines and sixty, yeah sixty courses. Realistic weather effects and an awesome online multiplayer mode will keep you busy for some time.Lasting Appeal Tired of racing games that focus on speed? Ready for some realistic action? If not, dont bother with this game. This game is meant for those who truly appreciate the 4WD experience.Conclusion As part of the Anytime, Anywhere, Twenty Bucks program 4WD fans should have no problem picking this one up. However, if your looking for an adrenaline pumping speed rush, look elsewhere. |