Review
Courtesy of:

GO64

SOFTWARE REVIEW

Communications Report:
Tarzan

   


Score:
5/5   'Bring It ON!

Company of Origin:
ACTIVISION

Category:
Action/Adventure

Graphics and Sound:

The jungle, which is Tarzan's home, includes very vibrant detail. Vine-draped trees, moss-covered rocks, roaring waterfalls, tranquil streams and exotic beasts all inhabit Tarzan's virtual world. All of this while maintaining a lickety-split frame rate. The game has a 2-1/2D feel, which allows for the game to maintain it's beautiful jungle environments. The game is similar to that of Crash Bandicoot and Yoshi's Story 2, as some levels are completely 3D, while others have the 2-1/2D effect. People who saw the movie will be immediately familiar with the in-game tunes, as they are the same ones found in the movie. Voices are the same actors from the movie, which is nice addition as it gives the game an even more movie-like approach.

Gameplay:

Tarzan's family was killed by the Sabor the leopard, and he is thus orphaned. A gorilla family adopts him, and raises young Tarzan and now his gorilla family is in danger from a ruthless hunter. Tarzan must work to save his family from Mr. Clayton. Tarzan starts his young life as a child and progresses to adulthood throughout the game. Along the way, you will also be able to play as Terk, Tarzan's gorilla pal, and Jane, Tarzan's love interest. There are 11 huge levels, and in each level, a number of Collectibles may be picked up for extra bonus levels or extra features such as movie screens, which help tell the story of Tarzan. This helps add a considerable amount of replay value to the game.

Difficulty:

Although most people will pass this game off as just another 'childs' game, it's really a game that can be enjoyed by both children and adults alike. For the children, they can leave the game difficulty on Easy and have a good old time going through the levels. For those who want a challenge, crank the difficulty up to Medium or Hard, and try to collect all of the collectibles that enable bonus levels and additional features. Obtaining a 100% in each level will offer a challenge, even for the experienced gamer, as the collectibles are hidden well in each level. So it's basically a game where you can decide how difficult you want to make it.

Game Mechanics:
Tarzan has all of moves that he did in the movie. Swinging through the trees, vines and ropes, climbing cliffs, trees, or vines, even the very popular tree surfing found in the movie is in here. Tarzan has a number of weapons that he collects that help aid him through his journey. A knife, spear and fruits of various colors are all used to help Tarzan fight off various animals, birds and exotic plants. But in true Disney fashion, there is no blood or gore. All in all, Tarzan is a winner. If you are you decide to skip this game just because of the audience that it's aimed at, then you are missing out on a very solid game.

- Raider, GameVortex Communications (AKA Chris Duran)