Release Archives: WEEK OF JANUARY 25, 20051.26.2005 Oddworld: Stanger's Wrath Dev: Oddworld Inhabitants Pub: EA MSRP:$49.99 Sys: Xbox The first Oddworld titles, released for the PSX in the 90s, were revolutionary for their time. They combined puzzle solving gameplay, a grotesque yet somehow cute cast of characters and important political issues such as oppression and pollution. They were so far ahead of their time, in fact, that while critics adored them, the average consumer shifted his glassy-eyed stare to games that offered much less of an emotional commitment. Oddworld Inhabitants first Xbox title, Munch's Odyssey, continued in that same tradition, only the sluggish sales were combined with a general feeling of apathy from the journalistic community as well. They have learned from their mistakes, though. Their latest title keeps the quirky characters and political themes, but throws away the plodding gameplay in favor of a fun and gun affair that everyone can enjoy. The most interesting new gameplay device is being able to switch between the first and third person perspectives at will. Both views have their advantages - the first person perspective makes it much easier to shoot enemies while the third person view gives you much more maneuverability - so while it's possible to go through most of the game in one perspective, it's a lot more rewarding to switch it up. For the sadists out there, this game actually does away with the bullets found in every other shooter on the market. In their stead, you will find a plethora of adorable living animals you can hurl out of your crossbow and into enemy's heads. They even talk to you while you're lining up your shot. This should be a great title for those looking for something a little different to fill this post-Christmas drought. - Tom |
