Forsaken 64
Reviewed by Mike Wales
A terrific multiplayer mode, smooth control and dazzling explosions highlight
Acclaim's apocalyptic action Pak.
Forsaken 64 is set in the far future, when Earth has been ripped apart by an
uncontrollable fusion reaction. Although the planet's fragmented remains have
been forsaken by all intelligent beings, a treasure trove of loot in the form of
energy sources and weaponry lures all manner of bottom-feeding intergalactic
scum seeking a piece of the action. Oblivious to the swarms of mutant creatures
and automated defense-systems that guard the remains, these scavengers seek
wealth and power at great hazard.
The fun begins when you mount gravity-defying bike-like vehicles called pioncycles
and become one of these interalactic rogues searching for hi-tech booty scattered
throughout underground complexes of twisting tunnels that link cavernous chambers.
Overall, the feeling and atmosphere of the game are quite similar to the PC game
Descent. However, the environment seemed less disorienting because the thoughtful
developers at Iguana UK have added some gravity-like effects that will gently orient
your bike to the floor if you turn upside-down.
Forsaken 64's atmospheric surroundings swarm with enemy vehicles. You have access
to a wide variety of weapons and power-ups. Your first person view on the action
includes a heads-up-display that gives you data on your energy and weapons status.
The game comes with an arsenal of 14 weapons, including sundry mines, missile
launchers and energy weapons. No mere eye candy, the advanced graphics are
tightly integrated with game play. For example, the real-time light-sourcing for
energy weapons projectiles allows you to actually detect enemies hiding around
corners by looking for their shadows as an energy bolt passes them.
Forsaken 64 feature 22 forbidding single-player missions and eight multiplayer
arenas. Some of the single-player missions will require solving puzzles and
accomplishing complex tasks. Advanced AI will allow your foes to use the different
terrain features to their best advantage in eliminating you. The multiplayer arenas
are twisting labyrinths of giant chambers and tunnels that will offer hours of friend
fragging fun.