Hunter: The Reckoning

"Worthwhile purchase"

Background/story:
Hunter: The Reckoning is a hack-n-slash/shoot-em-up developed from a table top RPG of the same name. The game tells the story of 4 people given the ability to see and fight the supernatural. The game starts shortly after the 4 heroes witness the execution of Nathaniel Arkady at the Ashcroft Penitentary. Something happens during the execution that transforms many of the people in the city to the walking dead. In the game, you take on the role of Spenser ''Deuce'' Wyatt, Samantha Alexander, Kassandra Cheyung or Father Esteban Cortez. Your goal is to find out what is behind the evil that plagues the town.

Controls: 7/10
The controls in this game are really similar to the controls in Smash TV. You control the character's movement with the left analog stick, and you aim with the right stick. This setup works quite well because it allows you to strafe, back away and shot in one direction while moving in another. The problem lies in attacking. With the exception of some weapons, you must continuously press the attack button to do multiple attacks. This may give you a sore wrist if you play for long periods of time.

Graphics: 9/10
This game shows some really neat lighting effects, such as light reflecting off a metal sewer pipe. The textures are pretty smooth, and there seems to be no slowdown, even with many objects on the screen. The game has a nice ''polished'' look, but it could improve by having more details.

Sound/voicing: 9/10
This game has some good music. It even includes a music video in the options screen from which some of the in-game music is based. Unfortunately, there isn't much variety in the music, and it tends to be rather forgettable. On the other hand, the voice acting as well as the scripting for the occasional cut scene is excellent.

Gameplay: 7/10
The gameplay is typical shoot-em-up fare. That means that you'll be constantly on the move against large numbers of enemies. For some, this may get repetitive because there is not much variation. The gameplay improves when you are playing with someone else because the game has a simultaneous multiplay that allows for up to four players on the screen at once.

Replay value: 6/10
The game lets you play one of four characters with different attacks, strengths and basic weapons. Extra costumes are unlockable for each character when you complete the game as well as an extra play mode (Nightmare). Unfortunately, there are no unlockable characters, levels and weapons which would add to the replay value.

Overall, this is a good game only if you do not totally dislike lots of running around and shooting. I would also like to mention this game has a mature rating, so be forewarned. If you are unsure about this game (or any game) make sure you do lots of research and possibly even rent the game to try out before buying it.

Reviewer's Score: 7/10, Originally Posted: 06/03/02, Updated 06/03/02