When I first received this game I was not sure which way it would go. It was one of those could be a great one or how much longer can I hang in there? It turned out to be one of those “could play for hours” games and I have to admit that I am still re-playing a week later!

The first thing I noticed was that it reminds me of The Running Man movie, which happens to be one of my favorites. You can choose your player, either Barry 2000 a big old bad bot or Pei Ling which turned out to be my favorite (think little blue ninja man here). I love the way the little man spins before shooting, really adds a nice touch!

The name of the game is shoot em and collect their cash. I love the “attitude” of Pei Ling when he collects a gold coin, listen for his “uh-huh”, priceless little victory comment!  You can conquer an enemy to collect cash as well as make sure you walk on a pile of bills in your path. There are also several shields you want to pick up during the game, Heat resistant, invisibility and impact. All these will help protect you from different elements you will need to overcome in the game. The heat resistant was the one I found to be the best as you will find yourself in what I call Lavaland at one time or another and it is the only way to get past the oozing lava pool. One hint here: make sure that you watch the timer when you use a shield as if you do not keep track you could find yourself in a lava sauna with no protection! Not good ways to get a spa like feeling! Also make sure that if you choose a time bomb game you keep a close eye on how long you have to take out your enemies. I have to admit though that I got a kick out of the way giant numbers appear on the screen and countdown the minutes. Reminds me a little of You don’t know Jack.   

Another thing I have to add is the weapons of choice. You have to see the bazooka to believe it! I mean this is one bad boy and when you aim and fire, watch out!! It’s rock and roll time! Of course there are other weapons you want to make sure to pick up such as zapper, plasma cannon and rocket launcher. Each one of these has their own special qualities and using which one depends on what or who your target is. Make sure also to keep an eye on your health level that is displayed in the left-hand corner of your screen. Keep it at 99 and if you need a boost make sure to pick up cans of Rocket fuel, their proud sponsor, along the way.

One other feature I really enjoyed was little mini movies you can choose to watch. You have to see Bratney the Britney Spiers of gameplay (or so my daughter informs me). Hilarious to say the least! She reminded me a lot of Min May from some of the old anime cartoons. She sings and entertains till time for her to go home and the game is again in motion.

Install: Easy
Involves installation of one CD

Gameplay: 7.8
The gameplay is very consistent throughout the game. It doesn’t matter which game you choose to play, each one has its own individual challenges. Having a good and interesting cast of characters to choose from as well as some great weapons keeps this game in high enough gear to make the game fun. 

Graphics: 8.0
From the planets you find yourself on to the characters themselves, the graphics are beautifully done. They do not go into minute detail like some games but yet are perfectly matched with the background of the planets you play on. A nice touch is the opening scene with a banner of Rocket Fuel, their sponsor blowing gently in a breeze. Good bold colors, volcano lava is a must see.

Sound: 7.8
The voices remind of Mel Blanc which I think is a real plus here. You also get continual feedback from your player who is also a nice touch. Music and dialogue is nice and clear and constant throughout.

Difficulty: 7.8
One thing about the game is that the difficulty pretty much stays the same which I enjoyed but is each players individual preference. I think it helps keep the game on course if you can keep a steady stream of the same level of difficulty although other may enjoy the challenge of working your way through various levels to get to an expert one.

Concept: 7.8
The concept may not be new but the game itself has a fresh appearance. The characters are well thought out and fun to boot! Each one carries his or hers (or its) own personality and this really gives a nice feel to the game.

Multiplayer: 8.0
Now my daughter and I played on the LAN and found out that quite a few patches have been made lately to make this game a lot smoother. I really enjoyed the enhanced challenge you get with this mode. I suggest that you go solo though for a few games to warm up first. Multi is very recommended though.

Overall: 7.9
This game is one of those you play strictly for the fun of playing and that is something I know everyone will appreciate. I like challenge as much as the next player but it is always nice just to sit back and enjoy a game just for the enjoyment and not necessarily for the win.