In a plight to recapture the excellence that has faded from the Twisted Metal brand, Incog Inc. (consisting of former SingleTrac employees who developed the first Twisted Metal) set out to restore the magic that gradually disappeared from future installments. Using black as the overall theme, Twisted Metal: Black introduces a brand new look to the series, presenting a much darker, intense mood to the overall atmosphere. Aside from a few elements, this new edition is quite unlike anything I've experienced from previous titles of the series, or any other car-combat game for that matter. In essence, the experience that lies within is one that you'll never forget.

Twisted Metal: Black executes its direction through use of cinematic sequences, composed of gothic and menacing scores to complement the storylines of each of the insanely mad characters featured. Varying from elements of death, sexual, violent and religious nature, Twisted Metal: Black clearly is not the game for children of all ages. The core bond amongst the cast of characters centers around a uncanny individual known as Calypso, the mastermind behind the Twisted Metal battles, who returns once more to host the ultimate contest of wreckage and devastation. Selecting prime contestants from Blackfield Asylum, Calypso has granted a single wish to whomever can succeed as the ultimate victor in a battle of relentless carnage. As you embark within the minds of these tormented souls, you will come to learn more of their mental anguish and eventually discover the future which awaits them.

The hell-bent cast features a few new faces, which are joined by a partial cast which made their debut in previous Twisted Metal editions. Each character has a respective codename and a specific vehicle which can not be interchanged with one another. Thus, if you select Mr. Grimm, you'll always use the armored motorcycle, the SUV known as Outlaw when selecting the S.W.A.T officer, Agent Stone and so forth. The immediate available roster includes Junkyard Dog, Brimstone, Outlaw, Mr. Grimm, Roadkill, Crazy 8, Spectre, Darkside and Shadow. Upon completing certain conditions in the game, players can later select hidden characters previously inaccessible which include Black, Cage, Mr. Kane and Son, and Axel. Finally, Minion and Calypso, respectively the first and second bosses are also featured in the game. (At present, there's only been one method revealed in unlocking Minion for personal use. Hopefully there's a method to unlocking Calypso as well). In any case, don't cheat by running over to GameFAQs or something for the answers, the payoff is well worth it.

In similar respects to film development, producers have occasionally expressed that their visions can not always be realized due to the limitations of technology. The same can also be said in regards to video game development, when programmers encounter certain barriers which are the result to the hardware limitations. While I am not manifesting the PS2 as being the ultimate god of graphic prowess, but in the case of Twisted Metal: Black, the hardware does this game justice. Its execution on the levels of AI, replay value, level design, among other areas which will be further expressed shortly, exceeded my expectations to the point that simply acknowledging the latest edition as an 'improvement', would be an understatement.

Among the most apparent aspects that I discovered (aside from the obvious fact that I was quite rusty with my car-combat skills), is that Twisted Metal: Black is fast...very, very fast to be more specific. Running at 60 frames per second, the controls are very tight and responsive. The only time the action will occasionally slow up is during a four-player death match. Despite some loss in detail and minor fogging, the action still remains smooth and enjoyable. Avid Twisted Metal fans will not be disappointed, Incog has done their homework. Speaking of which, the developers have brought back the special moves known as Energy Attacks. Each vehicle can perform this ability by executing a specific set of directional commands (similar to the type of motions used in a fighting game). Additionally, Twisted Metal: Black features more advanced attacks known as "skill pickups" which require players to carefully aim and fire their attacks at opponents for a maximum effect, a welcomed bonus for fans that can finally take their car-combat skills to a new level.

While the controls has a slight learning curve, with time and practice, they become second nature. Keeping the same formula as featured throughout the entire series, players can select alternate configurations which include Classic (default setting), Run N' Gun, or Control Freak to reflect your playing style. Regardless of the selection most suited for you, the level of control and precision is very tight and responsive. Steering can be manipulated with the digital pad or analog stick, while the face buttons respectively operate rear view, brakes, tight turns, and acceleration. The L/R triggers respectively L1/R1 toggle through your weapon inventory, while L2/R2 are designated for firing weapons and machine guns.

In the frenzied rush to stay alive, it's very easy to miss some of the subtle touches Incog has incorporated into the game. Not only are the levels multi-faceted, each features a distinct strategy in order to achieve the best results and succeed as the victor. A prime example in which I discovered this was in the Suburbs level, which features a Ferris Wheel. Showing very little regard as to its significance, I drove around the level, destroying everything in sight in addition to the ferris wheel itself. Unfortunately, my impulsive strategy was of little benefit to my survival and eventually suffered a timely demise. Suffice it to say, I grew pretty frustrated. Eventually, after going back and carefully analyzing the level design and the apparent role which the ferris wheel possessed, I came to realize the level of complexity which the level presented. Its an notable aspect which clearly demonstrates how gameplay has matured as players must utilize more skill and technique as opposed to mindless destruction.

The developers at Incog have certainly went to great lengths to deliver plenty of challenge for single and multiplayer events consisting of endurance and death match modes. Be assured that you'll be spending long hours playing this game whether you engage the mayhem alone or with friends. For one player action, Twisted Metal: Black features several gameplay types, respectively Story (a personal favorite), Challenge and Endurance Mode. The Story mode enables gamers to learn more about the alleged doomed souls participating in Calypso's carnage-filled event, while Challenge serves as a practice mode to become more familiar with the various battlegrounds and your opponents attack styles. Lastly, Endurance paves the road to unlocking the various hidden features which will become available by completing certain conditions. Multiplayer modes consists of a 2-4 player Death Match mode, 2P Co-Op allowing 2 friends to battle against CPU opponents, and 2P Last Man Standing; a endurance mode in which both players select from the vehicle roster and set out to obliterate each other.

Even though the human element will always remain as one of the ultimate challenges, the AI integrated within Twisted Metal: Black features some of the sharpest levels of logistics applied to computer-based opponents. Enemies will waste no time eluding you once they've realized that they're low on energy as I noted on several occasions. In my first experience, I attempted to finish off Brimstone, one of the last opponents remaining in order for me to complete the level. Sure enough, he had no intent of being a sitting duck as he literally zipped away as I launched a missile at him. It's amazing how Incog was able to implement that degree of consciousness into the game, but it's a great touch and gets no complaints from me. In contrast, your opponents are apparently aware of when your on your last legs, as they all seem to gang up on you, deploying every ounce of firepower within their disposal. While Sweet Tooth himself is not a boss, he should be...I found myself grumbling during my first hours spent in the game as he of course showed little regard for me and my adored Spectre.

Graphically, Twisted Metal: Black is stunning in a number of areas. This would have little significance if the character design, animations, or even the level design itself was bland in some manner. Yet, Incog takes the PS2 hardware and in effect, bends and twists its abilities in such a manner, that you'll be in a state of awe, over and over again. Every vehicle is full of detail and textures, the best I've ever seen in comparison to any other title on the market. Special attention was applied to the pickup and disposal system which is simply brilliant. Weapons will be revealed from hidden compartments either from the rear or side, and will disappear from view once it has been used or in the event should you select another weapon of choice. Very stylish, simplistic and smooth. In addition to the details applied to the particle system, it would seem that Incog left no stone untouched. Other developers should take Twisted Metal: Black, and study every aspect that's presented. There's so much going on at once during a given time, it's easy to miss some of the subtle touches. Missiles feature realistic vapor trails and particle effects, explosions which shift from gaseous fireballs to small blistering debris - it gives you a virtual sense of mayhem taking place, and I loved every minute of it.

To emphasize some additional highlights in regards to the level, design with Twisted Metal: Black, the battlegrounds are full of uniqueness and interaction. Stages such as Highway Loop feature moving traffic (all which are candidates for destruction), while Scrap and Salvage introduces players to the changing weather conditions, an element that totally caught me by surprise as a thunderstorm suddenly ensued in real time. But it doesn't end there, I marveled at the fact that practically everything within the game is highly combustible, whether it be houses, trees, churches - nothing is exempt from destruction. Plus, the game is filled with pedestrians which can suffer the unfortunate fate of being run over or gunned down at any given point. Aside from engaging in a destruction spree, you'll discover that the areas are also multi-tiered, consisting of secret passages, jumps, and various platforms or objects which can lead to acquiring special power ups and health items.

Not to overlook the audio department, (which mind you is absolutely bitchin), the music features loads of menacing, dynamic tunes, some which would seem to have been ripped right out of action/horror motion pictures. In addition, the soundtracks are area sensitive, and will gradually shift in accord with your location on the battleground. Yet another smooth touch incorporated into the game that one must personally experience to fully appreciate. Add to the effect of the assorted level of explosions, gunfire - along with mild sound samples used for the delivery/disposal system upon picking up new weapons, almost possess a psuedo James Bond effect to it. Every sound effect is very rich and distinct, easy to pick up on. Needless to say, it was yet another area which I must confess put me in a state of endless satisfaction.

Overall, Twisted Metal: Black is an ultimate blast of action that leaves all its competition in the dust. Boasting impressive visuals, full of detailed, interactive levels which in effect, shows an abundance of integrity and passion integrated into the game, one does not have to be a longtime veteran of the series to love this game. Each area of this game exhibits a caliber which to date, has never had possessed so much balance and significance, that it's practically close to being acknowledged as a perfect game. The single and multiplayer modes are simply awesome, providing hours of enjoyment and features an assorted selection of options which keep the game fresh and exciting. In effect, the game restored my faith in car-combat games and I am sure I speak for both casual and hardcore fans alike when I say that Incog definitely needs to consider producing a sequel that offers even more 'bells and whistles', but of course, without compromising any aspects whatsoever which make this edition so enjoyable. Stick to the formula and build upon it. Twisted Metal: Black is like an atonement for all of the bland car-combat games that have been released over the past few years, which serves as a solid example in which other developers should model their future titles upon.

· · · Bahn