14/07/2008
It's just not as good using a controller as a mouse and keyboard. There, I said it. I didn't beat around the bush, and I didn't exaggerate the problem. I’ve addressed possibly the most important factor for whether you buy Kane’s Wrath or not given a degree of indecision. You see if you’ve ever played a real time strategy (RTS) game using a mouse and keyboard, the move to using a controller is slow and cumbersome; there’s always going to be a loss of fluidity and a loss of accuracy. But (big but), this isn’t to detract from the interface that has been presented; Kane’s Wrath is possibly the finest RTS I have played on a console.
Firstly, the radial interface is a fine attempt at solving many possible nuisances. When mastered, using the left stick to select from a circular menu speeds up selection and the problems encountered when building away from base. Sure, using the analogue sticks loses a certain level of accuracy, but the build of the game is admirably close to the PC version. In addition, the game contains an X-box only set of missions, with 80 or so skirmishes added especially for the 360. It’s nice to have a set of live videos for the new challenges, and with 80 additional missions, it feels like EA have really gone to the effort of making the game especially for the console user.
However, the 13 missions in the main campaign, where you play as Nod supporting a newly resurrected/resurfaced Kane, are quite tough, and feel a little short for a stand alone. It may disappoint some that the original missions from the PC game aren't included, but the addition of skirmishes and Kane's Challenge should keep most happy.
The mission designs are very similar to previous builds and previous RTS games. If you liked C&C 3 and the C&Cs that came before, then the usual line-up of build so much you crush em', or build your super weapon unit ASAP or die, are all there to enjoy. Granted, there aren't really any real innovations with cartography or mission structures, but who cares? You see, the game is extremely fluid and runs astoundingly well, with frame rate dropping only when you really try to push it. I take my hat off to an excellent engine.
Sure, the plot is a little sci-fi fanboy, with Joe Kucan returning as Kane and the addition of Natasha Henstridge as Alex, and it’s a tad disappointing not to get the context of the story from the original game… But, in the end, it’s not the story that will bring you back to the game; it’s the gameplay. Those who enjoy RTS sims and can handle using a control pad will enjoy what is a valiant attempt at domesticating a wild animal of a PC game. Ed Breakenridge |
