Mass Destruction

This one seems like it has been coming out forever, but it's here now and that's what counts. I would go as far as to say Mass Destruction is on the same level as Return Fire. What makes it a bit more fun than Return Fire is that there's more than capture the flag, but then again Mass Destruction doesn't have a Two-player Mode. I had a lot of fun playing through this one (although I liked the Saturn one even better). The thing about Mass Destruction that's weird is that even though the graphics are more or less untextured polygons. it's alright-it works. Other enhancements were added to the game from the earlier versions like transparency to objects obstructing view of your tank. Other effects that have been there from the beginning are the cool reflections on water and the intense flames from the flamethrower (plus you can set the enemies on fire). The game featured just enough levels, and there are undisclosed bonus objectives to add to the replay. I wouldn't have minded seeing a little more variety in the landscapes. A couple other small gripes are the lack of really cool-looking weapons (only the flamethrower was really cool-looking) and the lack of other vehicles to choose from, but then maybe it would be too much like Return Fire. As mentioned, a Two-player Mode would've been icing on the cake.

I enjoy destroying buildings and pyrotechnic-action in games as much as the next guy, but something is missing in MD. Playing the game further, I figured out what the missing ingredient is: fun. Although I was intrigued by the concept of MO, the execution was a little less glamorous In reality. The sad part is that many elements of MD (graphics, sound effects, control) are actually decent but the entire experience bores me to tears.

This is a lot like Return Fire, with more emphasis on arcade action. It's fun, but the action becomes a little repetitive as the same techniques are needed to kill each enemy (swivel your turret and dodge back and forth). There's a lot of weapons, and some have very cool effects. Unfortunately, the drab 3-D graphics and music aren't as impressive. If you loved Return Fire, this might be the game for you -just don't expect it to be as good.

The name of the game says it all. Think of Mass Destruction as a Loaded-type shooter with less personality but more variety, barely more variety. The visuals are sharp, but honestly, this game would be nothing without them (especially the excellent explosions). If you're looking for some absolutely mindless button-mashing fun, then Mass Destruction could be right up your alley. Otherwise, it's just barely above average.