Vigilante 8: 2nd Offense

Action game which combines driving and shooting, set in the 1970s. Available on Dreamcast, PlayStation and N64. The game's premise is that, thanks to time travel, the cars have been boosted with futuristic technology. This makes for some innovative action, for instance cars can be driven on water. There are two gangs fighting for control of the streets, one criminal and one good. You can play on either side.

The game boasts stylish design with many cool 70s features, including the exterior of the vehicles and the music.

The game offers several game options. In Quest mode you choose to play the side of one of the gangs. This choice decides mission objectives for each level. A main aim on either side is destruction of all enemy vehicles. The action takes place in a good variety of well-designed levels. Settings vary and include the streets of US cities such as Las Vegas and New Mexico. Interactive elements like jumps and moving obstacles are included.

Arcade mode allows you to battle it out in various arenas where you define the perimeters. There is also a good multi-player mode.

There are 12 playable characters and a good range of vehicles, each with their own handling characteristics, incorporated into the game. It has a good physics engine and the control system is effective.

An important addition to this sequel is the ability to upgrade you car. You'll gain points in-level which improve you car in various areas, then when you've accumulated enough you get an improved vehicle.

The game's graphics are good, with the quality depending on the platform. A strong feature of the game is the audio which includes 70s-style tunes.

GAME INFO

By:
Luxoflux
Publisher:
Activision, Inc.

Genres
Action

PlayStation Release
US: Dec 1999
Nintendo 64 Release
US: Feb 2000
Dreamcast Release
US: Dec 1999