ARMADA (DC)


Fire, level up, fire some more...

By WILLIAM BARKER

This next game was only released in the US, which is a shame. While checking out the local import shop, Armada was poking its shiny head through the rest of the crap in the bargain bin, so it was that the game came to rest in our US Dreamcast.

Armada follows the exploits of humankind into the distant future. The human population explodes and man realises his destiny lies among the stars. This results in an exodus from Earth as the overpopulation takes its toll. But little does humankind know it is being watched - spied upon, even - with much interest. Cue Jaws music.

The Armada, as they later became known, appear all over the known galaxy and, inevitably, war breaks out. Some 10,000 years later, after the human populace has taken different paths to new lives, they must regroup and put petty differences aside. Only in unison can they hope to destroy the Armada.

So, where were we? Oh, that's right, import game. The closest thing to Armada would have to be Gauntlet Legends, though that's not really helping, as this game is a space shooter, not a medieval RPG. It is, however, the most addictive game I've played since the original Diablo grabbed me by the goolies and refused to let go.

But it didn't start well - 60 bucks for this tripe? The graphics were a little grainy, the gameplay monotonous and the sound? My ears still weep blood… But, after the initial shock, where the game appeared to be shallow and tedious, something happened. My Terran starship reached level four - a new ship was the reward. Every four levels you are rewarded with a new ship, which not only looks different, but gives you better firepower, armour and speed. The word is that the maximum level is 101, but we'll have to sit tight with that one - this game is HUGE! As a result, the game sucks you in.

There are six different races too, each with varying special abilities from the outset. The Terrans have rapid-fire bullets and homing missiles, the Nomads get increased damage and explosive ammo, whereas the freaked-out Drakken possess a triple-shot cannon and increased credit salvage from enemies. Crazy baby - yeah!

Add to this an assortment of about 50 UltraTech power-ups, which add beam weapons, better shields and increased energy to your ship and you have a recipe for success.

But the piece-de-resistance is the four-player action on offer. Single player is plenty of fun, but with three others, you can cause a lot more damage to the never-ending Armada onslaught. There are plenty of missions too, involving delivery, rescue and my favourite, search and destroy - have at you, blighters!

You will also come across other freelancers in space who will usually join your cause. Some motherships will even request an escort, with due compensation, of course.

Everything about the game is old-school - except the visuals. This fact, along with the go-anywhere, Asteroids-style gameplay make Armada a terrific game. There is even news on Armada 2 - let's hope it makes a European release. If you find this little gem at your local import or specialty store, don't hesitate in picking it up - it's a keeper.

ORIGINALITY 90%
SOUND/GRAPHICS 65%
PLAYABILITY 85%
ADDICTION 90%
ENJOYMENT 90%