Metal Arms: Glitch in the System

"In search of a Metal Arms 2!"

Metal Arms: Glitch in the System is a game that is the first of its kind. It definitely redefines the action/third-person shooter. Surprisingly, this great game is the first of a new company that is composed of former members of Midway. Even though I absolutely stink at this game, I managed to beat it, love it, and write a review.

Gameplay: 9/10

The gameplay is near flawless. However, the ''flaws'' aren't too noticeable. You get a complete array of weapons. They can range from a Mining Laser that never runs out of ammo when your other weapons do, to a Ripper that shoots out saw blades that render your enemy helpless, to different kinds of grenades. To add to that, you can even upgrade the majority of your weapons to add new features and gameplay elements. With those upgrades, your possibilities are nearly endless. Now you may think that what I said won't tide you over for 42 missions. Well, you'd be right! But don't worry. Every so often--just when you might start to get bored--the game will throw some new gameplay element at you, such as piloting a vehicle or a turret. Now, I did say that this game is truly original. Trust me...I didn't lie. Just think of the most frustrating enemy in ANY video game (the Queen Metroid comes to mind for me). Now that you're angry at me, think what it would be like if you could control that enemy. That's right! You can take over the body of your favorite bad guy in this game! You use a special device called the Control Tether to hi-jack into the enemy and use their own evil against them, while you are completely invincible. This adds so much strategy to the game, that you can use your normal tactics AND some new powers that you get from your host. The only problem with the gameplay is at the end. You stop getting weapons and upgrades for them around level 30 something. But don't let that discourage you. This game rules! Not to mention, you also have a great multiplayer mode. It could be more customized, but that's the only problem I have with that.

Story: 9/10

Not a perfect (or unused) story, but still a good one! You are Glitch, a robot found on the planet Iron Star by a group of rebels to oppression. Iron Star is a planet entirely inhabited by robots. Each Droid has its own purpose in society. One of these types is a science Droid, with the sole purpose of enhancing other Droids. The only Droid that they could not enhance was themselves. This was because their inner workings were too complex even for them. After many attempts, Dr. Exavolt finally created an enhanced science Droid. They gave him a strong chassis. Because of his superiority, he became cocky and destroyed the entire lab. Dr. Exavolt's remains were never found. This monster called himself General Corrosive.

Although there can be some obvious plotpoints or missions that last for too many levels, this story is still a good, fitting one.

Graphics/Sound: 9/10

The graphics in Metal Arms were definitely a priority in the gameplay. ''How is this?'' you ask. Because you can completely sever off joints and weapons. That is a big part of strategy in surviving this game. Not only that, but the effects are close to the major graphically-noticed games out there (Metroid Prime, Madden 2004, etc.).

The music in this game is awesome. It's composed of a lot of good instrumental rock. Plus the voice acting is superb, featuring a variety of star actors and voice actors. Music and silence are thrown in at just the right points.

Play time/Replayability: 9/10

Wow! This is quite possibly the longest action game I've ever played. For me, it took about 20 hours to beat! I know a lot of people who beat it in less, though. Replay-wise, there's not much offered. If you're like me, you'll be too frustrated with how hard the game was to back to it for too long. There are the secret chips that unlock multiplayer levels, but that would be the only reason.

Final Recommendation: GET IT!!!

This game is definitely a must-BUY! As in, if you rent it, you're wasting your money because you'll just want to buy it anyway. I haven't heard of anyone who doesn't like this game. Even though this game isn't perfect, the (almost definite) sequel could be. This game has action, sniping, diversity, humor, comedy, awesome voice talents, and the most tolerable addiction ever! This game, overall, gets a (who knew) 9 out of 10.

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 01/07/04