Transformers : Games : Web Wombat

Mind blowing graphics, extraordinary scenery and heart stopping action scenes make for a fun-filled game, whether it be blowing up Decepticlones or transforming into various vehicles for a quick getaway, every second of this action/adventure is filled with anticipation and excitement.

The main storyline surrounding this game is the battle between Autobots and Decepticlones - Autobots of course being played by the gamer.

Both races, or should I say robots, are on the hunt for mini-cons whom serve the purpose of enabling the transformers to increase their ability, whether it be by developing new skills or acquiring new weapons.

The foremost objective in Transformers is to cause as much carnage as possible, shooting anything that moves, and creating havoc for Megatron, the creator of the decepticlones As many non-stop shooter games in the past have failed to create a plot worth considering, Transformers succeeds in joining massive fight scenes and a decent storyline.

The graphics are what makes this game so enjoyable, and from the backgrounds, the waterfalls, the rivers, the forests and the destroyed buildings, as well as the movement and animations of the transformers, their designs and their weapons - everything looks exceptional, and particularly in the heat of battle.

Movie sequences are also tremendous, the dialogue is great, and the action is continually flowing, and if you thought the graphics were great during gameplay, they are twice as good during the in-game movie scenes which continually add to the brilliance of Transformers on PS2, and help give it a high quality feel.

Those who can remember the transformer action figures will not be disappointed with this game, as many of the characters have been transferred from plastic toys onto the PS2.

Take a look at the luscious visuals,
and how about that clipping range

Optimus Prime, Star Scream, Megatron & Red Alert are but a few and although there are only three that can be played by the gamer (Optimus Prime, Red Alert and HotShot), all have different skills - some are faster - which means certain characters need to be used at certain times.

Although Transformers could be considered just a mindless shooter, there is some strategy involved. Sniper weapons are used so that the more dangerous close combat can be neglected, and transforming at the perfect time to avoid needless confrontation or even launch a surprise attack is always heaps of fun.

This all adds up to a great action game, and one of the best 3rd person shooters on the Playstation 2 in my humble opinion.

Sonically, the developers have done a good job, as the heavy thud of a metallic foot, or the light trickle of water down a calm river can be heard clearly and crisply, making the sound another positive feature of this already brilliant game.

Driving the transformers around in car mode is one area of the game that can be incredibly fun, and sometimes even better than some dedicated driving games. The huge expanse of land and water that can be traversed is amazing, and although it is not as detailed as the likes of latest Grand Theft Auto games, it is quite cool to just marvel at the forest as you hoon around. It's not hard to get lost wandering around just admiring the detailed graphics.

It's one of those nostalgic games that warms your heart, and there's an aspect of a car that transforms into a death-dealing robot that I find intriguing. Transformers is definitely a game for action fans, and though it won't be to everyone's liking, those who grew up in 80s and 90s will probably enjoy it most.

Game: Transformers
System: PS2
Players: 1
Online: No
Developer: Melbourne House
Distributor: Atari

Rating: 90%

(Ratings Key/Explanation)

Transformers is on the shelves now.

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