An exciting hybrid challange for those who enjoy FPS/Role Playing games
Despite is steep learning curve (i.e. - the first hour of sneaking around to learn the skills required to complete the game does get a bit tiresome), this is a game well worth the extra effort .
The game involves playing as 2 different characters through a combined storyline, think Max Payne 2 character swapping, but this time your aiming to bring your other character to justice, one minute your running away through realistic and exciting ‘wild west’ environments - whilst being used by the local towns folk as target practice after trying to get some ‘romance’ at the local saloon, only to find that in the next chapter of the game its you playing the character doing the chasing and the shooting, this is the unique and very involving element of this challenge that makes it so compelling to play.
Story lines are predictable but enjoyable and I did find myself becoming very involved and relishing each chapter more and more as the plot unfolded. Later chapters were much better than the start of the game. You only get a small choice of weapons for your enjoyment, but you do get several ways to use them, such as placing different guns in each hand, concentration mode (bullet time’ish) or a good old fashioned draw of your pistol when you’re challenged to a duel!!
Overall, Call of Juarez was a touch frustrating right at the start, (successful sneaking in this title is so frustrating!!) but I am pleased I stuck it out as the rest of the game was superb to play with great graphics, superb gameplay and left me awaiting a sequel…