An evolution? No, I really don't think so...
In 2002, Acclaim released the latest addition to the series, Turok: Evolution for all three major consoles. Boasting better graphics, control, and gameplay than the originals, the game drew a lot of buzz. I myself was fairly optimistic about the title. Then I played the game. There is nothing evolutionary or revolutionary about Turok: Evolution. Acclaim has released an FPS that is bland and mediocre in nearly every aspect.
Gameplay: 6
T:E's gameplay seems fairly similar to the original Turok games and would most likely have been well received during the era of the N64. However, in the year 2002, console FPS games have reached a new level of excellence. Rather than reach for this level, T:E is content to wallow in its own antiquity. There is simply nothing fresh or unique about this game. Besides a few interesting weapons, the game is simply average at best, like any other console FPS out right now.
The controls for the game feel rough and unresponsive, even with the FPS-friendly X-Box controller. Aiming a shot can be a huge annoyance thanks to the wonky controls. AI is passable, with enemies using cover and dodging fire. It's no Half-Life or Halo, but it's alright. There are times, however, when the AI will simply stand and let you snipe it at will.
To break up some of the monotony, Acclaim threw in several flying levels, which are somewhat entertaining, but can quickly turn into controller-tossing, profanity-laden challenges thanks again to the bad control. The most enraging part of the game, however, is the fact that there are NO CHECKPOINTS or ways to save mid-level. Die at the end of a level? Tough luck, you get to play through it all again. When you lose over twenty minutes of progress thanks to an unforeseen sniper or an overpowered enemy, you will get mad. And this will happen. Again. And again. And again. I understand that games shouldn't be a walk in the park, but many times your deaths won't even be your fault. If you can get past these problems, Turok has a decent single player game. But as a gamer, should you be expected to overlook gaping flaws to appreciate a game?
The multiplayer definitely fares better. The game supports four player split screen with a plethora of modes (deathmatch, team deathmatch, CTF) including some unique ones, like Monkey Tag (Oddball with a monkey), Hunter (only the Hunter scores kills; kill him to get the title), and Warrior Rage (kill streaks give you extra power-ups). The problems that plague single player aren't nearly as apparent in multiplayer, though the controls may take some getting used to. Killing a friend with a "Swarm Bore" or portable nuke, however, makes up for these short comings. Basically, if you're buying Turok, come for the multiplayer fun, not the mediocre campaign.
Graphics: 5
Bland. That's all all I can say about Turok: Evolution. The textures are murky, the enemies have a surprisingly low polygon count, and the animations are unimpressive. There is absolutely nothing special about Turok's look, save maybe the dinosaurs. Maybe if the visuals weren't so dull and lifeless, I could forgive Turok's repetitiveness a little more. However, you'll grow tired of the visuals around the third time you repeat a level. Even the laughably over-the-top gore does little to save this package.
Sound: 5
The sound is equally yawn-inducing. The background music in forgettable, the weapons all sound weak and generic, and your foes have very little to say. Like the graphics, hardly anything sticks out as being of even slightly high quality. The best thing the sound has going for it is the ambient sound of the jungle and water throughout each level. Even this quickly grows tiring.
Value: 7
Despite the sub-par presentation and frustrating single player, Turok still has decent value thanks to its multiplayer components. The game can be found for under $10 at many stores and online retailers, and for the varied multiplayer, this isn't all that bad of a deal. If you and three friends are looking for a cheap thrill for a dull weekend, you can easily pick this game up for a few dollars a piece, or less if you rent it. Don't expect it to be the next Halo party, but for what it is, it's passable deathmatching with some cool weapons and fun gore. Don't even think of getting this game to play alone though.
Verdict:
Oh Turok: Evolution... You had such promise, yet you failed to deliver on any of it. The once great Turok series has been reduced to a dead-average FPS with a less-than-average single player campaign. Decent multiplayer and a low price tag save this game from being a total wash, but its not even close to the "evolution" it claimed to be. In a world of survival of the fittest, Turok: Evolution ain't it.