The success of Wolfenstein 3D took the world by storm with its fast paced game play style so it was really no surprise that id Software will be releasing more Wolfenstein games. The first of the rack is Wolfenstein: Spear of Destiny – the idea taken from the legendary artifact that pierced Jesus Christ's side. The backstory explains that the spear was stolen from Versailles by the Nazis and it’s up to William ‘B.J.’ Blazkowicz to recover it. This game, even though treated as a sequel, is actually a prequel to the original Wolfenstein 3D yet unfortunately does not improve the game in any way. It practically has the same graphics, sounds and style that really makes you wonder whether this game actually was made from the cutting floor of Wolfenstein 3D or simply used as a cash cow.
Therefore it would be pretty difficult trying to review this game without referring back to Wolfenstein 3D as it practically made no changes. Obviously though, the game is much shorter than the original as it only has twenty one levels, separated into four parts being tunnels, dungeons, castle and ramparts. All parts ends in a boss fight that, save for the look, almost acts like the original boss fights from Wolfenstein 3D however I won't provide examples as it's a minor spoiler. Also you have the same four weapons and the par times are practically the same, whether they are appropriate for the level’s length. Also the songs are a direct carbon copy however at least the ending screen is different.
Whilst Wolfenstein 3D is a fun game to play, it's a disappointment to see that the Spear of Destiny does not improve from the original game. Granted you can say ‘if it's not broken, don't fix it’ however paying for (at the time of release) $59.95 comparing to Wolfenstein 3D a year prior, $50 for six episodes, is a total rip off. The difficulty does ramp up only because there's a lot more enemies about and the violence is still in full force (which is good as this was the soul of the game), I did like the small twist near the end. So if you are willing to fork out (then) the massive price tag and cannot get enough of Wolfenstein 3D, this is the game to play however for me, I play the original again at a higher difficulty level. I guess at least Spear of Destiny doesn't require the original game to play so that's a bonus?