State of Emergency

"This is not GTA4, but it wasn't meant to be..."

State of Emergency is an frantic, action-paced, arcade beat 'em up that is definitely worth the purchase if you enjoy games like Streets of rage, and Final fight. This is a straight to the point, short review.

Gameplay

The gameplay is State of emergency is like your basic arcade beat em up. Destroy everything you can using whatever you can, and try not to die in the process. Although the gameplay can get repetitive, it is alot of fun and you should have plenty of action in this game. Chaos mode is the best part of this game, picture it as a mix between Streets of rage and crazy taxi. Chaos mode always keeps you on your toes, and it's alot of fun to see who can get the highest score out of your friends. Revolution mode is not bad, but can get repetitive and isn't as fun as chaos mode. It should be noted that there is also close to 200 people on screen at certain times in the game, which leads to very fun times when you have a grenade.

Controls

The controls are basic, punch, kick, throw, special attack. The controls also change a little when you get a gun. It should be noted that you cannot use the digital pad, only the left analog stick to move around.

Graphics

Although not the most beautiful people or cities ever, there is an amazing amount of people on the screen at one time, close to 200 in fact, all doing individual things.

Sound

Great sound effects for guns, and grunts, but people should have talked to add some characteristics. Good background music as well.

Replay

Hmmm, this depends. The chaos mode has alot of replay value if you have a few people seeing who can get a higher score. You probably won't play revolution again when you beat it, though. Oh, and this game is sorely lacking a 2-player mode.

Overall

I give it an 8, but i'm leaning more towards a 7.5. This is not GTA4 people, don't expect it to be as deep and compelling. Oh, and the score would have most likely been at least a 9 if this game had a 2 player mode. A 2 player mode would have made this game a lot more fun, and had alot more replay value.

So basically, if you enjoyed Double dragon, streets of rage, final fight etc. I recommend this game. I do not recommend this game if you get bored of game after awhile or were expecting something better then GTA 3. Well, that's pretty much it, I hope you enjoy the game.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 02/16/02, Updated 02/16/02