(Rated M. $59.99) A THQ presentation of a game developed by Nihilistic Software
and licensed by Paradox Entertainment Inc. for Playstation 3 and Xbox 360. Reviewed on Xbox 360.
It's been 75 years since writer Robert
E. Howard created "Conan the Barbarian," but the carnal warrior is
still going strong in the vidgame world. THQ's new incarnation of the
swordfighter delivers appropriately violent sword fighting sequences, impressively
detailed oil painted scenery and a storyline just decent enough to keep things
moving. While Conan will have a tough time vanquishing foes like "Halo
3" and "Call of Duty 4" at retail, fans will find it's a bloody
good time.
Game has a cinematic feel to it, which seems appropriate because the 1982
Schwarzenegger starrer is how many younger people know of Conan (Millenium
Films acquired the movie rights in August of this year). This Conan is voiced
by actor Ron Perlman, who's not exactly the Governator but does a competent
job. Story unfolds across the fictional world of Hyborian as Conan battles
countless foes, from pirates to lions to dragons, in his quest to find the
magical armor that will help him against a mysterious evil force that is
threatening the land.
A Conan game is all about the sword fighting, however, and this one works
well, with smooth controls and a perfectly placed third-person camera. There
are over 100 unique combat moves and more than 20 weapons Conan is able to use
throughout the game, giving the game a "God of War'-esque feel as the
Barbarian's moves get more sophisticated while his enemies get tougher.
Interactive environments also allow players to pick up enemy weapons and
objects such as large rocks to throw along the way, some more effective than
others. Mini-games involving objectives such as knocking down enormous columns
and forcing open entry-ways are a fun addition.
Overall graphics are solid, though many of the enemies are severely lacking
in detail. It's the backgrounds, however, that really shine. Each of the 24
missions features backgrounds that were painted on an oil canvas, giving the
game a unique look compared to computer-rendered competitors. Each of the
different regions of Hybor has a unique look that makes the player feel as if
he or she is within a painting.
Composer Michael Reagan ("God of War 2") created the musical score
and it gives the game an epic and cinematic scope. The soundtrack is as
professionally produced as any blockbuster adventure movie and significantly
enhances the gaming experience.
Given the game's advanced fighting system, lack of any multi-player is a
disappointment, but hopefully something that can be addressed before Conan
turns 80.
Read the full article at:
http://www.variety.com/story.asp?l=story&r=VE1117935216&c=1023