In a nutshell, this is simply the FPS which every can enjoy, and everybody should own.
By Andy Ryle (Ryle_Boy)
Well, after much debate about a FPS I can get really into and enjoy, I picked up Unreal Tournament 2004: EC and I can tell you, I’ve never looked back. A good single player, which does get a bit tedious, but the real stand-out is multiplayer, which excels. It surpasses nearly every other Online FPS out there, and is really a rare game which everybody can enjoy.
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Let’s do this thing!
Overview
UT2k4 is one of the best FPS’s ever, there’s no question, but when you add more content to Game of the Year, you’re bound to get a stupidly awesome game that nobody can match in quality and in fun. Basically, Editor’s Choice is an addition of mods (official and player-made), new maps and bonus vehicles. Released a little while after UT2k4, Editor’s Choice is a worthy purchase for a keen eye. The mods make the purchase worthwhile, and add some really cool content to an already awesome game.
Gameplay
UT2k4 is one of the fastest paced games you’re ever going to see, quite simply, and this one experience that has never been rivaled. It’s basically a FPS with a few awesome twists, like vehicles, new, unheard-of modes and a superb online community, one which doesn’t have pre-teens screaming for their chocolate milk.
The vehicles are cool, and with some experience and teamwork in some cases, it can turn the tide of the match. The small, speedy Manta for maneuverability, or the loathsome Leviathan for raw, unsurpassed power? The decisions are crucial in a fast paced game, and can do some really great things in them. However, the vehicle aren’t something unique or original, however, but rather builds in a great functioning area of a game and builds upon the great achievements of Halo’s vehicular system.
The modes I mentioned foremost, too. Onslaught is but one example of a truly superb mode of gameplay that can only be enjoyed on Unreal. There are a few other modes, but I can guiltily say that I haven’t played them enough to comment on.
All in all, the gameplay in UT2k4 is just unparalleled, and with the addition of new vehicles and maps, really makes a worthwhile purchase. The gameplay is exactly of the title, simply Unreal.
Verdict – 10
Graphics
The graphics in 2k4 are just…wow. They aren’t the best, but a good indication of how graphics should be, and quite frankly, they are just right. The textures of the ground, walls, terrain and buildings are just amazing, and look great even from a distance.
The graphics are just plain nice to look at, and are respectable even against the likes of other shooters that have been released later on. Even at 2 years of age, Unreal looks the likes of F.E.A.R. and Half Life 2 in the eyes and stands by the likes of them.
Graphics, whilst still great, are aging, but in reality, the graphics just don’t stand up to the quality of gameplay, and this game could be enjoyed on any graphical setting for optimum entertainment.
Overall, whilst not the best graphics, Unreal doesn’t fail in delivering a graphical package that is easily recommendable and memorable, and in no way subtracts from the experience. Overall, it’s just a great graphical experience, no matter who you are.
Verdict – 9
Sound
2004 has some of the most memorable saying in a game, such as the “Wicked Sick!”, M-m-m-Multi-Kill!” and “Headshot!” comments, not to mention the none-too-often used “Ownage!” voice announcement.
The memorable soundtrack, too, is really quite great. It isn’t the best, but a very good attempt, and very enjoyable at that.
The sound effects really give you the impression of you being right there, behind the driving seat of a Hellbender, the turret of a Leviathan, or the roof of a tall building. The gun sounds suit the mood, spacey and very modern.
One of the drags, however, is simply that sometimes, the sound is a bit like a broken record, and usually there is only one sound effect for one given action.
However, despite that, the sound is another superb attribute to a superb game, and whilst it may not be the biggest impact in the game, it wouldn’t be the same game without it.
Verdict – 9
Value
Define value…Replayabilty? Time spent on the game? Cost? Well, you get them all here.
There are few other games that can match 2k4 in replayability, and none-too-often you’ll find yourself coming back to it for more and more. It’s a really addictive game online, however, if you’re looking for a game with lot’s of single player potential, you’d better keep looking, as SP gets old really fast.
Typically, there are a lot of games on the market that are addictive, but none come close to 2k4. Certain modes, like Onslaught keep you coming back for more, much like some sort of drug consisting of polygons and mechanics.
And money for value, you’re getting a good deal investing in UT2k4. As mentioned throughout this review, it’s a great game, and if you’re an avid shooter fan, you won’t be sorry about this purchase.
Overall, Unreal 2k4 delivers everything you’d expect from a truly superb game on the value front, and a very nice purchase will be had if you buy this.
Verdict – 9
Reviewer’s Tilt
I can’t get enough of this game, I just well and truly can’t. I have a temporary addictive personality, but somehow, Unreal Tournament 2004 is one of the few games that’s going to stay with me as one of my firm favorites.
This is my first Unreal game; I’ve always considered getting into Unreal, which I can now regret, as it’s a truly magnificent game. Nevertheless, Unreal Tournament 2004 is a great place to start your Unreal career, or carry it on for veterans of the series.
This is probably up there with some of my favourite FPS’s of all time, it’s a truly magnificent and worthy experience, and overall, shouldn’t be missed by any.
Verdict - 10
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Overall, Unreal Tournament 2004 is one hell of a great game, a step in the right direction for the Unreal legacy, and as mentioned before, is a shoot-‘em-up that can’t be missed. If the perfected gameplay, crisp visuals, lovely sound and budget price don’t convince you to buy this great game, I don’t know what’s wrong with you.
Overall – 9.6 - Superb