The follow up to Thunder Tanks is just as good if not better than its predecessor.
Imagine if you will, a televised event showing fast paced air combat in post apocalyptic arenas. Mix in gangs trained to blow their opponents out of the sky and earn money in the process. All that pretty much sums up what WDL: WarJetz is all about. This is a very fun and gritty game with lots charm to boot. 3DO seems to have a solid grasp on this series; it’ll be nice to see what’s in store for the future.
Graphically the game tends to be on the dark side, yet that is what happens after the apocalypse I guess? Don’t expect flashy, brilliant, colorful visuals here, you are not going to find it. What is brought to the table is quite nice though. While a little rough with jagged edges, the game still boast a fast and slick engine that easily compliments the PS2 hardware. The explosions effects are very well done, along with the grim after effects. With over 30 levels, ranging in many different areas, the game tends to stay very fresh in the end. Honestly, what is better than legally destroying one of our famous landmarks? The Brooklyn Bridge never looked so appealing. Overall, these are the types of games that will give 3DO the respect it deserves.
Audio does its job, blaring a nice soundtrack to go along with the chaotic action. The television style of audio makes this title stand out aurally, and giving the game a somewhat more original sound. Accompanied by whining missiles, rocketing machine gun fire, and fierce explosions, the sound effects are not only superb but loud to boot. The sound department compliments the visuals quite properly
One of the brighter spots of the game has to be in the controls. Never has flight control seemed too easy to achieve. Not that the game means to be a simulation in anyway, it’s just nice to be able to fly in a machine without having to have a pilots license. Controls are very reminiscent of Crimson Skies for the PC. Performing barrel rolls and shooting down an enemy fighter never seems like a difficult task. Without a doubt, WarJetz control’s can be described as textbook pick up and play.
Many modes and options are yours, giving WarJetz an array of playability and life. Five game play modes; Campaign, Ace, Air Lord, Bomb Fest, and Cash Frenzy lead your way into battle. The slick and addicting two-player mode makes the title even better in that respect. As mentioned before, 33 missions will keep you occupied on those lonely one-player nights as well. There are plenty of things to see and do in WarJetz, which gives the game so many bangs for its buck.
I found great pleasure in this game, and even found myself going back to play Thunder Tanks as well. If you haven’t tried either title and have beaten Twisted Metal Black, by all means don’t miss out on two very fun titles.
