Duke Nukem: Zero Hour
Reviewed by Nido
Duke Nukem, the wise cracking renegade marine we've come to know and
love. If you hated the gameplay of Duke Nukem 64 but loved the attitude,
this game is for you. If you're into third person shooters, this game is for
you. If you enjoy action, this game is for you. And if you want an overall
excellent gaming experience, then this game is definitely for you.
Graphics: 5 out of 5
The graphics of Duke's world are detailed down to the writing on the neon
light of Duke Burger, and the animation goes as far as enemies having
limbs and sections of body literally blown off in a polygon blood feast.
The rendered character models are smooth and clean, providing a fresh,
relieving view at excellent appeal.
Music and Sound: 4 out of 5
The blaring sounds of a Claw-12 Shotgun or the pounding beats of the
wild west pump through your speakers, brining about the ultimate
setting of a true gaming mood. The low toned music and plentiful sound
effects blend perfectly into the setting, both performed at just the right
levels to set the atmosphere of play very well indeed.
Game Challenge: 5 out of 5
No matter how alert you are, an alien horde will always be blasting
you from behind. The enemies are strong and many, brining a real
plethora of opposition to your feet. From rocket launching ground
turrets to shotgun totting alien cops, the armies seem to fly at you in
primal rage, and the multiple assortment of tough jumps, slick moves,
long courses and confusing maps can bring about quite an obstacle at hand.
Game Play-Fun: 4 out of 5
The gameplay is excellent, the action plentiful and strong. However,
the high difficulty may reduce the fun of all of it, and the seemingly
endless levels may at times prove to be a bit of a bore. Still, the pounding
emotion of the game's settings pull through, engrossing the player in the
simulated world of Duke Nukem.
Frustration
My main negative point with this game was the difficulty. Some points
of play seem nearly impossible, and the swarms of enemies can at times
overwhelm even the best of players. The controls also seemed a bit
awkward at times, and the use of the D-Pad and analog combined
proved to be a bit of a waste.
Replayability: 3 out of 5
While excellent in all ways the first time through, the concept remains
straight up and solid, providing little as for secrets to be found or side
quests to be made. Fun the first time, but look for something new come
your third or so time beating it.
Overall: 4.4 out of 5
This is an excellent action shoot 'em up game, full of blood, gore, guns,
and even the women. Some younger players or the easily offended may
dislike the crude comments of the Duke, but others will find it a suiting
role for the alien destroyer, setting the perfect mood all the more. An
overall great game, but if you can beat it completely with a rental,
think twice before buying.