The action packed game play hides a engaging storyline that is over far too fast.
This is the world of Gun, a fictionalised though true to life replication of the harsh reality and beauty of the Wild West. From the rootin’ tootin’ shootin’ (with a name like Gun, expect no less), to the misogyny, racism and violence, Gun pulls no punches in introducing a cut throat world that can hold many treasures.
Developer Neversoft, known almost exclusively for the Tony Hawks line of skateboard games have constructed a brand new title, and judging by the brief though fun game Gun is, this won’t be the last in this exciting new franchise. Gun is all about Colton White, the Thomas Jane voiced protagonist whom the player will control and learn a great deal about as they play through the story.
Like most traditional third person action games, the control is simple, and with the left analog controlling Colton and the right directing his aim, shooting the crap out of innocent beasts and horse riding bandits is a breeze. The addition of a bullet-time esque quick draw feature and the riding on horseback yourself naturally works itself into the plotline, and throughout the game, you will be taking aim at a number of foes who smartly outflank and dodge your skills as a marksmen.
Your saddlebag carries a number of weapons, and even from the very start, you are cocking the lever of a shotgun and rifle. As you progress, items like whiskey bombs, dynamite, bow and arrows, sniper rifles and more powerful weapons become available. In many set pieces, you also take control of Howitzers, machine gunners and cannons. And if you want to forget about the guns and get up close and personal, a quantity of different knives present themselves.
The statistical system will also have you upgrading the various skill of the many assorted weapons you carry, and shopkeepers are scattered around to sell you the latest wares. Completing the many side quests also has a positive effect on your skill as a player, and help pad out the game’s middling story. From longer quick draw times to faster reloads and a longer health bar, learning the ropes by doing side missions for various good and bad guys really helps you in the main game later on.
To this end, gamers have the option of herding cattle, hunting beasts, searching out wanted men (and bringing them in, dead or alive), working as couriers, cheating in Poker and other various deeds. Almost all missions have a cone on the radar that pinpoints you exactly to where you need to go, which foregoes any real exploration on the player. However, this fast pace allows for action packed game play, and it is here where Gun really shines. If you’re thinking Grand Theft Auto meets the Wild West, you’re on the right track, but you aren’t spot on. While the free roaming nature of Rockstar’s famous series is evident, Gun offers a tighter storyline that is far more personal. The lack of playing for or allying with any other parties makes the player relate more to protagonist Colton White in ways that you never could any lead character from the Grand Theft Auto titles.
From the small town Dodge City to the genuine old west Empire, Gun’s world is authentic to the last. Old gold mines, hunting grounds for native Indians, Canyons, plains, pastures and the trains that run through them all lend an official look in to a life that games have barely scraped at. Gun’s world isn’t exactly bustling, but it’s small size means that getting from place to place is relatively easy and small shortcuts and hidden gold veins help in some respect in having a keen eye and breathing in the epic look.
Riding your stolen steed and racing him hard to the next point only to be ambushed by bandits and then racing after their leader, shooting while on horseback is quite thrilling. Little touches like how horses turn as you do, rear up and trample most anything that gets in their way and the thunder of their hooves makes for an elegant feel that hasn’t previously been seen in games. The only gripe is Horses are treated much like cars in the Grand Theft Auto series, and you never get attached to your mount. It would have been good to have your own steed to call upon. Even more strangely, you can ride a bareback wild horse or a heavy laden tamed one and there is no difference in speed or strength. While horse riding is truly excellent, and shooting while on horseback is easy and fun, there are just a few niggling problems that hold it back.
The world of Gun lends itself well to sumptuous graphics, and I personally didn’t come away disappointed. Except for the opening cinematic, all cut scenes are rendered using the game engine, and the strong personality of the characters, as well as their expressive look afford some of the greatest points of the game. The enjoyable storyline is made more so by characters who are believable and engaging.
The varied world that comprises of vistas, swooping valleys, hidden mines and masses of wildlife looks awe-inspiring. And the wonderful original score, composed by the great Christopher Lennertz (Medal of Honor) makes the whole experience feel that more epic. From the rustling of leaves to the sound of running water and the howling of wolves, the alive world of Gun almost always has something going on. The artistic nature of the game world and characters may seem a little out of odds with the over the top nature of the game play, but the personal journey of Colton makes for a more emotional experience than other games in the genre.
Closing Comments
The heavy emphasis on action, and fast pace of the plot best demonstrate a game that is a excellent rental, but not one that has staying power. When all is said and done, a dismal six to ten hours of gaming is on offer, and there is no replay value. Without any multiplayer, this comes as a hard recommend, even though what is available is of excellent quality. At first glance, and first play, you will be instantly drawn to the game’s believable atmosphere and wonderful orchestral score, but the breakneck pace of the games storyline and the empty feeling of the missions that don’t reward discovery will dismay all but the most forgiving of gamers. You will enjoy Gun, but there just isn’t enough to make this a must buy.