Intense! Great on-line and off-line modes. Unreal Tournament 2004 is still kicking after all these years.
This is not a game you play while sipping tea and chatting with your mates. Unreal Tournament 2004 is a furious rip-ride of non-stop violent fun! If you are looking for a first-person shooter that has bundles of features and play-modes, this is for you. New-comers may want to begin with the more forgiving single-player mode before diving into the multi-player. There is definitely a learning curve for new-comers too. In fact, the game was too difficult for me when I first tried the on-line mode. I refused to give up though, and returned again and again for revenge! Onslaught, capture the flag, and team death-match modes are some of my personal favourites. I would gladly have given Unreal Tournament 2004 a '10' in the game-play department if the space-fighter levels weren't so clunky and difficult. This game is really fun to play and quite challenging if you are new to the first-person shooter scene (yes, like me). While it may at first appear to be repetitive, it isn't overly repetitive, and you just might find yourself relieved to be on a familiar map in those fast-paced deathmatch modes.
Graphics: 9
You will enjoy the great graphics, especially those found in the outdoor battlegrounds. Beams of sunlight peak through the clouds, abandoned fortresses crumble in the wastelands, and strange alien jungles glow and sparkle. Very well done for an online game! Good textures provide realism without creating lag for those players with slower or older systems. Player character models are wonderful and there is a vast number to choose from.
Sound: 9
Excellent sound in Unreal Tournament 2004 creates an engaging play experience, particularly the music. Weapons and vehicles have fantastic and realistic sound effects, and there are two voice-announcers broadcasting the events and kill-modes. Very professionally done and polished. You'll want to play it loud and with booming bass to get the full impact from the explosions! Five-point-one surround sound, anyone?
Value: 10
Unreal Tournament 2004 earns a rock solid '10' in value. Not only does it have very high re-playability, but it is a game that allows you to improve your skill and technique every time you play. Multi-player is quite competitive, so even when you lose, you know your opponent had really worked to earn the win. This game is worth your investment and will provide a lot of entertainment. A must-have!
Tilt: 9
Overall, a fabulous game. Unreal Tournament 2004 will keep you coming back for more punishment and glory, just don't forget to breathe!