S&S Review: Twisted Metal

Title: Twisted Metal
Format: PS3
Release Date: Feb 14, 2012
Publisher: sony Computer Entertainment
Developer: Eat, Sleep, Play
Price: $59.99
ESRB Rating: M


After a troubled development cycle, the brilliantly dark team at Eat Sleep Play has finally released Twisted Metal to the masses.  I didn't want to review the game on the first day of release like others, even though the online wasn't available.  If you've been reading previous reviews, you would know that Twisted Metal 2 is my favorite.  I wonder if the new next generation iteration of the game will trump the PS1 classic?


Presentation/Story:
Twisted Metal looks great, and you'll notice the amount of detail and production that went into developing the game. You'll notice little nuances about how the team made each car, they each look and feel unique in their own way. Massive environments make the game's atmosphere feel more complete, with fully destructible buildings. Rockets and bombs explode in beautifully rendered smoke filled explosions. The developers decided to skip on the more traditional CG cutscenes and decided to use live action sequences. Its a pretty cool idea, and I actually find it further engrossing. Audio is very solid in the game, ranging from the cool soundtrack to the bass pounding weapon effects. Like the previous installments in the series, Twisted Metal revolves around a deadly competition. Sweet Tooth, Mr. Grimm, and Doll Face, are the only competitors of the story. The campaign is broken up into three chapters to match each main character. Presentation is great in the game, and doesn't disappoint.

Core Gameplay/Multiplayer:

When the main battles begin, getting behind the wheel will take some getting use to. The control scheme is very tricky, but you will get used to it with time. Besides the cars themselves, which all have unique abilities and stats, the maps have plenty of extras for you to acquire along the way. The games arcade style gameplay harkens back to the old school style that made the game famous. Cars sport different rankings for speed, armor, and the effectiveness of their special weapons. You will want to spend time with each vehicle to fit your playing style. From standard missiles to remote mines, the pure variety of special weapons keep the action a blast.


Multiplayer is included and it does not disappoint. Split-screen and LAN support adds to the already robust online recipe. The online arena is great, but hasn't reached its fullest potential yet, with sporadic network errors that keep you out of the online match. Earning experience by competing earns you special rewards like new cars, sidearms, and a different assortment of skins.

Final Thoughts:

Twisted Metal makes a triumphant return to the next gen console, and lives up to the immense amount of hype it received. Although the game is hindered by a sporadic amount of bugs, it doesn't detract from the game at all. We can look for future patches to further polish the game. Its a great game, plain and simple, and it shouldn't be overlooked.

Final Score = 9.25/10

Email: sameo452009@gmail.com

Twitter: @iSamKulii

Apps: S&S Reviews on Apple and Android Stores

PSNID:sameo45200