(review written using a machine with the following attributes: 3GHz P4 with 1 GB RAM, 256MB Raedon 9800, SoundBlaster Extigy, 128kbps wireless DSL connection) GAMEPLAY: (10) Wow. I have played many, many FPS online games, and there hasn’t been one nearly this smooth and intense with such large maps. I rarely experienced a period of lag, even with a slower-than-average broadband connection. Either on-foot or in a vehicle, controls are precise and responsive. The weapons vary and each has its own strengths and weaknesses, which makes various weapons more suitable for certain styles of play. Gone are the days of each player looking for the insta-kill rocket/grenade launcher. Each weapon is useful in its own right, and differing players will have differing favorites. The vehicles on the vehicle maps have exactly the same attributes: each has differing strengths and weaknesses--and each can be taken out by a foot soldier. Because of this, being stuck on foot isn’t as big a handicap as it is in some other team-play games with vehicles. Two minor complaints: it would be nice to see a total frag count at the end of each match. Bear in mind, I haven’t explored every aspect of the game, and the frag count totals may be buried in a hotkey somewhere. Secondly, the it can be very difficult at first to figure out what one is supposed to be doing on the Onslaught maps. . .but I’m sure that will become clear once I RTFM. One point of note, I am not a big fan of the SciFi genre, but the intense, fluid gameplay and truly differentiable weaponry has made this my new favorite. GRAPHICS: (10) This game is beautiful. The textures are crisp, character and weapon models look great, and little details like water and plantlife look better than anything that has come before. The outdoor areas are vast and the framerate high. Little details—like not being able to see the character names of your enemies, but being able to see the names of your allies, allows you to easily not target friendlies while not unduly giving away the positions of the hostiles—are welcome, and noticed. SOUND: (8) The sound is workman-like and appropriate. The canned taunts are funny, and I like the announcers, but there is nothing outstanding here. The in-game microphone/headset is a good idea, works better than Roger-Wilco, but still isn’t as effective as one would hope. VALUE: (10) The special addition retails new for $39.99, and I have seen internet and in-store specials for as low as $29.99. Add a 10-dollar rebate for owners of UT2K3, you could pick this up for $20. In an era where most new-release games cost upwards of $50, having UT2K4 cost significantly less is refreshing. Because the game is nearly value-priced; so well put together; very, very detailed; value is easily a 10. TILT: (9) Addictive and fun, UT2K4 is my new favorite game. As I mentioned before, not being a SciFi fan, the setting detracts for me, but only slightly. I hope other game studios are listening: a new era in online FPS gaming is upon us.
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