In theory, Will Rock includes all the elements that made Serious Sam a great shooter. It features large mobs of simpleminded enemies and huge, open levels in which to fight them. But something just isn't right. For starters, Will Rock lacks Sam's endearingly nutty, go-for-broke atmosphere. Even though it's filled with (lame, even for a shooter) one-liners and mythological beasts, Rock's never as colorful, funny, or surprising as its inspiration. It's over-the-top, but in a completely forgettable way.
The level and combat design also aren't as interesting as they could have been. Visually, Rock's 10 large levels favor darker, slightly less open, and more barren environments. If you had to compare the two games, the graphics engine appears to be about on par with Croteam's Serious engine, though, again, some small but noticeable details, such as grass and thick foliage, are missing. Sam's levels had a straightforward, generally puzzle-free flow that effortlessly moved you from one large battle to another--a strategy that complemented the game's focus on pure action. Rock, on the other hand, often leaves you to wander around a hublike area searching for the triggers that will permit you to keep moving forward. These switch searches don't qualify as puzzles; they're just busywork that frustrates your attempts to get on with the action.
The level and combat design also aren't as interesting as they could have been. Visually, Rock's 10 large levels favor darker, slightly less open, and more barren environments. If you had to compare the two games, the graphics engine appears to be about on par with Croteam's Serious engine, though, again, some small but noticeable details, such as grass and thick foliage, are missing. Sam's levels had a straightforward, generally puzzle-free flow that effortlessly moved you from one large battle to another--a strategy that complemented the game's focus on pure action. Rock, on the other hand, often leaves you to wander around a hublike area searching for the triggers that will permit you to keep moving forward. These switch searches don't qualify as puzzles; they're just busywork that frustrates your attempts to get on with the action.
No comments:
Post a Comment