MDK2

"Now THIS is how you do a sequel."

MDK 2 was developed by Bioware and was distributed by Interplay. The game was released in March of 2000 for the Sega Dreamcast. It is a 3D action sthooter in the truest sense of the term. This game is the sequel to the original MDK; MDK was originally released on the Sony PlayStation and PC. This game enables you to embark on a frantic adventure; you can play as Kurt, Max or, Doctor Fluke Hawkins. Each character has their own special traits, and each level is different depending on the character. Now then, without further ado, let’s get to the review.

The game's story goes a little something like this: am alen invasion is going to destroy the Earth. It is Kurt Hectic's job to protect the Earth. He will have the assistance of Dr. Fluke Hawkins and Max, his rather unique dog.

The graphics are some of the best I’ve yet seen for the DC. The game features some of the most crystal clear environments ever. The architecture for the levels is very well done; it is quite comples and it fits the theme, plus, it really helps to bring the mood out of the game. The game’s characters are a rather diverse bunch. Kurt has one of the most unique character designs I’ve ever seen; words can’t do it justice, but I’ll do my best. Max is a dog; well, actually, he’s a dog with a mean tempter and tons of weapons. Did I mention that he also has six arms? Doctor Hawkins looks like your regular, run-of-the-mill mad scientist, and is relatively plain looking. The doc’s look is the only real downside to the graphics, he looks for too plain for this game. The game features some really nice, and subtle, uses of graphical effects, mainly lighting effects, but they real help put emphasis on the impact of shots.

The sound of the game is one of its best attributes. The game doesn’t really have too much in the music department; but boy does it ever make up for it in the sound effects department. The lack of music actually helps to enhance the mood of the game, a definite plus in a game like this. The game’s sound effects, such as an enemy blowing up, or a gun firing, are all well-done and really help to convey the damage being done. The voices used in this game are first rate. The voices for all three of the characters are excellent, and fit the characters to a tee.

The game’s gameplay is a throwback to the days of old. When enemies swarmed you, and a seemingly endless amount of platform jumping was required in order to proceed. The game’s characters each have their own sections that emphasize some of the gaming aspects that made old-school gaming great. Each character has their own special traits, and each level is different depending on the character. Kurt’s levels feature an emphasis on action. Max’s levels have an emphasis on platform jumping. While Doctor Hawkins’ levels are composed of some of the trickiest puzzes ever devised. Even though each and every level in the game is challening; it never gets all that frustrating. For some reason, I always feel to the need to keep playing the game.

The game features some of the most unique control yet on the DC. You see, you control your character’s movement through the game’s action buttons. The Y button moves you forward, the A button moves you backward, the B button moves you to the right, and the X button moves you to the left. While it may seem complicated now, don’t worry, it quickly becomes second nature once you get into the thick of things. In fact, it’s some of the most responsive I’ve ever had the privelage of experiencing. Each and every character controls flawlessly, which pleasantly surprised me.

The game’s presentaion is both serious, and comedic. It’s serious because the game’s overall tone is very dark and morbid. Yet, it’s also quite comedic because the game’s intro is done in a comic book style that comes off great, plus, many of the comments made by the characters have a really tongue in cheek sound to them.

MDK2 is one of the most challenging games I’ve played in a long while. Like I mentioned earlier, each and every level in the game is hard, and most of the enemies put
up quite a fight. You will die many, many, MANY times in this game, I hope you have the patience.

MDK2’s replay value leaves quite a bit to be desired. The game is very difficult and doesn’t get much easier on the second time through. It’s still a fun game mind you, it
just loses some of it’s luster.

On the whole, MDK2 is a fine game. The game combines some of the greatest play mechanics ever in one game. The game is very fun and is easy to get into. Just be very wary of the game’s difficulty. The game is a fine purchase, I recommend that every DC owner buy this game, I found it for $9 at my local Wal-Mart, hopefully you’ll be able to snag yourself a copy of it for a similar price. It’s a grezt game at any price, but $9 makes it all the sweeter.

---------------------------
Score Rundown
---------------------------

Graphics-9/10- The character design is great. The in-game environments are stunning,
and the character design is, for the most part, top-notch.
Sound-9/10- The lack of music actually helps to enhance the mood of the game. The game’s sound effects are great and really help emphasize their actions.
Gameplay-10/10- The game combines three of my favorite types of gameplay styles. All of them are integrated flawlessly.
Control-10/10- The unique control scheme will take some time getting used to, but the payoff is worth the effort.
Presentation-10/10- The game's presentation is one of it's high points. The game has a very dark, serious feel, and a comedic feel all at the same time. Here's the kicker though, it pulls both off very well. Everything that's supposed to be serious, is serious, and everything that is supposed to be funny, is.
Challenge-10/10- Good lord is this game tought. Get ready for a challenge when you fire up this game, you’ll need all your wits if you hope to succeed.
Replay Value- 4/10- Not much replay value in this fine game. It’s far too challenging to warrant a second play through.
Overall-9/10- The game is one of the best DC games available, but the challenge takes some of the fun out of the game.

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 04/23/01, Updated 04/25/01