Jurassic Park

"This game is very unique and a lot of fun !!"

Most of us have heard of Jurassic Park. It was the Steven Spielberg blockbuster based on Michael Crichton's best-selling novel. Jurassic Park is probably my favorite movie. As for the game, it is probably one of the most unique I have ever come across. I like a new thing every now and then and this game fit the bill. The thing about it is, it is not so much how good you are at video games, it is how you think, that will get you through this one because believe me, it is tough. All the elements from the movie and book are there. You have got electrical fences, motion sensors, utility sheds, the raptor pen, the visitor's center, the dock, etc. All the dinos are there. You will encounter the Compsognathus (also known as the Compy, they were in the book not the movie), the Velociraptor, the Dilophosaurus, Tyrannosaurus Rex, Gallimimus, Pachycephalosaurus, and Triceratops. There is also the occasional dragonfly, which wouldn't be a problem except for the fact that they are mean and about as big as you are. You have many objects to pick up on your way, and they include weapons such as the Bolas Snare, Shotgun, Tranquilizer darts, rockets, and tear gas. You always have your trusty cattle prod. You also must find 18 raptor eggs and everyone's ID card. This game will keep you occupied for quite some time. One neat thing is if you let it sit, Mr. DNA will pop up and tell you some interesting fact on dinosaurs. One thing about the dinos that you must remember. DO NOT underestimate ANY of them. They all have different attack patterns and can all be quite tricky, so watch it.

Gameplay-8 The external overhead view is really neat, and gives you 360 degree warning for the most part. The inside 1st person view is an interesting twist. The elevators and computers make for an interesting trek while inside. The difficulty on this game is fairly high. I will be honest, I had to use the FAQ on this site to beat this game as I could only get so far by myself. It is a tough one that is for sure. It is also very time consuming and there is no save feature.

Sound-9 I love the sounds in this game. Outside, you can hear the dinos, and other animals really clearly. You can hook your SNES up to a surround sound system for this game because it supports it. That would be quite and experience. Inside the the music turns to a really evil sounding theme and it is kind of scary. It makes you nervous, as you don't know when a Velociraptor or Dilophosaur will sneak up on you.

Graphics-8 The visuals in this game are pretty good, especially for the SNES. The external views are bright, and colorful, the dinos are well defined so you can always tell what you are up against. The inside views can get somewhat blocky, but it is pretty good viewing overall.

Replayability-7 I am not sure that many people would want to replay this one once they beat it because it takes so long and is so difficult. It is a lot of fun though, and if you like it, you will probably replay it sometime or another.

Controls-8 The external view controls and very well done and you have very clean precise control. Inside, it is a little more difficult, but it is possible to manage.

Rent or Buy? This game would definitely be a buy unless your local video store has 5 day rentals, which many do nowadays. The only problem would be finding it. If you can find for say 15 to 20 bucks, I would go for it especially if you have played it before and liked it. I am lucky enough to already own it so I don't have that problem.

Overall-8 This game is unique, fun, and very challenging. If you are into RPG and action games I suggest it. If you are a big fan of the whole Jurassic Park series, I would also recommend it. Great game and worth every penny.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 12/27/00, Updated 12/27/00