There is a mechanic that completely changes the way you play title: The idea here isn't to kill; it's to capture. Yes, you can still blow up the gangsters in this faux-Wild West setting. You'll earn less cash by doing so, and power-ups will be scarce. It takes a fine line between causing damage and stunning enemies to reel them in, leading to boss fights that are an absolute joy to complete. Each one is unique, requiring a specific strategy to conquer. They can be exploited (rather easily), though doing so is missing the point and ruining the fun.
The developers have also found that perfect way to slide in-between between frustration and oblivious difficulty levels. If death comes often, tips appear to guide you through the challenge. It's a subtle way to keep you playing, avoid being forced into a strategy guide, and it's greatly appreciated. The only thing that could stop you from playing is the redundant mission structure, which always involves receiving the mission, completing it, and returning for the next.
With all of the fantastic gameplay crammed onto this disc, it's truly magical there was enough space to put this much personality in too. The games rather twisted sense of humor rules this one out for kids (the Teen rating is pushed to the limits), but it's perfect for adults. Don't let the cartoon nature fool you. Your ammo isn't the only thing that will spout off hilarious remarks as the population is a parody of typical RPG towns, mocking the Stranger when he stops to talk to everyone about an obvious question. Enemies discuss their own lack of intelligence, and stopping in the midst of a stage to listen is worth the asking price.
Stranger's Wrath is another entry into a game of the year race that's growing quicker than any year before it. It finds itself on that list because of how much it offers to the player, and how immersed it makes them feel. It's an engrossing world, and though the series creator wants to take these characters elsewhere, here's hoping we can get at least one more visit.
Article comments
1 - Aaman
Why buy anything more while we wait for November?
I've noticed massively dropping sales for ALL console games across stores.
Great game, though - the old Oddworld was fun too
2 - Noodle of Death
This is one of my favorite Xbox games- and sadly, it didn't seem to get the sales that it deserved.
The switch from first to third person was great, the weapons were good, and it looked fantastic.
And what about the plot twist? One of the best things I have seen in a video game.
I just wish they would make another one...