Reader Reviews

Deathrow (Xbox)

by Max

Deathrow - hip, slick, fast, aggressive and great fun, these are all words that can be easily associated with this Ubi Soft game. Although, the most easily associated word is "underrated".

Ubi Soft's Xbox-exclusive title was developed by Swedish firm Southend Interactive, who are now developing the multiplayer section of "XIII". The plan behind the title was to astutely observe all of the best elements of futuristic films and games, such as "Rollerball" and "Speedball" and merge them into a whole lot of fun. Fun is what it is.

The game offers both a sports and action mode, complimenting the two styles of play available to the gamer. In fact, the style of gameplay often relies on balancing just the right amount of ass kicking with scoring the points. Cook basketball, frisbee and wrestling together and out of the frying pan comes this game.

The graphics are impeccable and it's still among the best-looking games on the market. There are exactly 32 environments to play in and unlock, many of which you initially play through as you battle your way through a 15-team career mode, gaining points to unlock inventory as you go. The unlocking doesn't stop there and that's where the lasting appeal really rockets. You are also able to unlock special players and teams, while finding the points to seek out and view behind-the-scenes concepts and even secure higher difficulty levels and bonus sports ability and weaponry.

Fan boys be prepared - there isn't a mature rating on the box for no reason! For that reason alone expect a whole lotta word-bashing statements. Increasing and building upon the characters and teams within the games, each match begins with an official swearing slagging match. Watch out for the beefy german lady - not nice. Feel free to press the swearing button in game also, as it's good for building up that aggression. It'll also please the fans that are watching in the streets of yet another futuristic game world.

When taken to multiplayer, the game really takes off into its own. A four player split-screen is available and it actually promotes team gameplay. Which means, gosh, someone will have to score while the others knock each other out. It's shamelessly basic good fun and there is no reason not to have this as a title to play 'with the mates'.

The biggest down fall is the lack of Xbox Live additions, to my mind, having this addition may have just gone and made it one of the best games on the Xbox. Unfortunately, because is doesn't, then my verdict is it's not - following? - good.