Manhunt

"A killer thriller..."

Introduction

Manhunt. Rockstar has quite the reputation for making the most gruesome and gritty games that are out there. And yes, Manhunt is one of them. It's Mature label wouldn't happen to be on there for no reason you know. Manhunt is an insane and violent game and as sick as this may sound, it's very enjoyable. With a dark sinister atmosphere that literally gives you the chills, Manhunt does a good job at keeping you on edge.

What is Manhunt about?

You play as the character James Earl Cash. Your world comes quickly to a horrifying halt when you are thrown into a world in which you are being used as a tool. You are thrown into a world where you are the hunted and you must survive. The odds are against you in staggering heights which you wouldn't want to imagine. The real question is, will you be able to survive?

What is the Game Play like?

Since you are pretty much thrown into this the game play is pretty much straight forward. This game is about survival. You must survive in the worst of circumstances where crazed psychos and murderers and gang members await you coming. And it isn't a happy union. There are many items strewn about the environments which are pretty large that you must use to your advantage. Manhunt has a semi-stealthy approach as well. There are times where you must wait out until the madness blows over you. A few neat aspects as well, the harder you work the sweatier you look. And the more beat up you get the bloodier you get. I found this highly amusing and realistic. These are some of the smaller and finer details in a game that I can sit back and really appreciate. You also get an array of gruesome tools and other ghastly weapons to dispose of your enemies. There are several executions for the weapons that are really entertaining to watch yet they are seriously sick and gruesome! There is no rushing in this game no no. Being the sly one is key to your chances of success.

How are the visuals? Are the graphics good?

Yes indeed! The graphics are a dandy. Everything is crystal clear and has sort of a grainy look for that VHS tape feel. That might sound like an oxymoron but what I meant by crystal clear is details in the environment. They are actually quite striking. There is a certain flow to this game and it all looks fantastic.

Are the controls easy to handle?

As a matter of fact they are. You find yourself in pretty sticky situations so you rely on the controls to be responsive. Everything is easy to get used to and takes just about 15-30 minutes to get used to.

How about the sounds? Voice acting? Music?

Lets first start with the voices and voice acting. They were done very well and with much enthusiasm, I am glad. There is nothing like being chased down and having verbal threats being yelled at you and actually freaking out because they sounded to real. The sound effects and sounds are important in this game, you rely on sounds and footsteps and vocal sounds to get by. Everything sounds realistic and for that I am also glad. Music...very eerie. The music fits this game to a T and does not get repetitive, just the perfect chase music.

Any replay value? How long will this game take to beat? Is this game worth buying?

Yes, Manhunt has a great replay value. When you beat the game you can go back for some cool stuff. (the game leaves you with extras but I aint' tellin') Manhunt should take you about 5-7 hours to beat. And yes! this game is seriously worth buying.

-Please keep in mind this game is not for the feint at heart,

-Happy Gaming!!

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 04/18/06