Red Faction (N-Gage)

GameSpot editors' review

• CNET editors' rating: 1.5 stars Poor
  Detailed editors' rating
  Overall score: 3.4 (1.5 stars)

• Reviewed by:
  Tim Tracy
• Reviewed on: 01/05/2004
• Updated on: 05/17/2006
• Released on: 12/10/2003
• Originally published on GameSpot: Red Faction (N-Gage) Review

Red Faction is a gritty and apocalyptic first-person shooter that originally appeared on the PlayStation 2 and PC in 2001, and now, several years later, it's the first of its kind for Nokia's fledgling N-Gage. While it certainly shows off what the system is capable of, that doesn't mean that it is impressive on its own. Featuring clunky controls, choppy animation, and a subpar frame rate, this reworking of a great game isn't one that you'd want to have with you on a desert island.

You play the role of Parker, a miner working deep below the surface of Mars in less than favorable conditions. The game begins when you and your coworkers have had enough of the deplorable working conditions and start a grassroots uprising. Over the course of the game, you'll find yourself below the surface of the planet and will eventually work your way up to the futuristic laboratories and offices of the Ultor Corporation, the evil oppressor you're looking to destroy. While the original game relied heavily on story to move the game along, this version takes several steps back and reduces the game to the basest elements of the genre--find a key, find a door, and shoot things along the way. Those expecting a faithful interpretation of the original game might be disappointed, but deep down the spirit of the game lives on.

Another element that played a big role in the original incarnation of Red Faction was Parker's impressive array of weapons and his ability to blow holes through certain walls. Thankfully, the cache of guns is still present, allowing Parker to off Ultor's guards with varying degrees of ease, and you're still able to destroy certain walls, although the effect is more or less equivalent to that of opening a hidden door rather than modifying the level geometry around you.

Continue reading

Compare prices for Red Faction

This product is currently not in stock at any of our online merchants.

Email me when this product is available