Terribly Underrated Entry In A Small Genre

User Rating: 8 | Clive Barker's Jericho (Limited Edition) X360
It's a shame that the flaws in the game are ones that are bound to annoy hardcore FPS'ers, because the use of powers and fun story makes for a great time. This isn't meant to be another cookie cutter FPS, it's really something of a redux of the genre in fact. You control a squad, but in essence you could see each member as a pair of weapons and powers that you might have in ONE character in another game. Fully realized and voiced characters however, that you jump in and out of like a psychic jackrabbit is a LOT more fun than playing as just one guy loaded with juice.

As a survival horror game, it isn't, as an fps, it really isn't... what Jericho IS... a dark and eerie game that has a great single player experience. This game is fun, and while the mechanics employed are not groundbreaking, they are implemented well, and with polish. To be blunt, the game is fun.

The plot, while basic, provides a plausible and enjoyable framework for action in diverse environments. The enemies are grotesque and well rendered, but sadly, not too bright. One downside of this game is that you spend a lot of time dumping ammo into enemies that are far tougher than their AI is bright. Of course, their number and tenacity is what forces you to utilize your squad effectively, so this factor is mitigated.

Down to basics: The sound effects are excellent, especially the voice acting which is well executed (and there is a lot of it). Visually the game looks pretty good, with character and enemy models being the high point, and some environmental textures being a bit bland. It is also a dark game seen often with a flashlight that is well implemented... of course, some people hate that kind of visual, so be warned.

Nearly a year since it's release, it is (mostly) visually on a par with new releases, and at a lower price it's worth spending on a rental or a cheap buy. Treat yourself to a nice single player game with some good horror roots.