‘Prototype’
‘Prototype’
Activision for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3
Genre: Action-Adventure
Rating: M; Grade: B
By far the biggest surprise and enjoyment from “Prototype” comes from the realization that there are so many ways of attacking a particular problem or foe that you will want to replay the scenario time and time again to see the alternate results.
“Prototype” is a fantastic title for this game, because you are constantly encouraged to try new combat techniques and city-traversing means.
Playing as amnesiac Alex Mercer, you are doing all you can to survive in Manhattan as the military attempts to quell a massive viral outbreak that is turning everyone into mutants.
It’s impossible not to relish the combat mechanics. Using an inventive menu system, you can shape-shift Alex into various forms in the battle against mutants.
If there is a downer, it is the blandness of the environment. Apparently, the viral outbreak has affected buildings and landscapes as well, because everything has a dull, uninteresting patina.
Luckily, you don’t spend much time focusing on the lackluster environment since the boss battles and the constantly increasing difficulty of fighting will have you focusing on the action at all times. Beyond the story mode, the game also features fun timing challenges and other diversions to keep you interested.
“Prototype” is an inventive game that should not be missed.
‘Fuel’
Codemasters for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3
Genre: Racing; Rating: E; Grade: C+
There came a point when, after my second dozen races, I felt that “Fuel” was returning to the days of rampant rubber banding. Then I just realized that, in actuality, “Fuel” is just a game that works really hard to not let you win – or enjoy it.
In racing games from the ’90s and before, rubber banding was a big part of the action. This phenomenon manifests itself by having AI-controlled racers never be out of a race; somehow, they always seem to be on your tail or beating you when you run the perfect race. “Fuel” has similar traits, and for a while gamers will be frustrated that a flawless performance on the course doesn’t result in a runaway win. This should not distract from the grandiose course designs, but sadly it does. Yet the courses are a marvel.
Gamers will love chewing on all the scenery, but what you have actually come to the game for — the racing — just leaves you aggravated and defeated.
-Chris Campbell, Scripps Howard News Service