Future Publishing


Wolfenstein 3D
By Atarisoft
Atari Jaguar (EU Version)

 
Published in EDGE #12

Wolfenstein 3D

Doom, which is apparently ready and waiting for Jaguar conversion, is a game that, given a quick release, would sell thousands of Jags on its reputation alone. So what do Atari do? They tell id to delay Doom in favour of its forerunner, Wolfenstein. It must make sense to someone.

However, that's not to say that Wolfenstein 3D isn't a good game. It is. Just like Doom, it's simple, addictive and worryingly good fun. The game is based in a Nazi-infested castle in which you're being held captive. In order to escape, you have to fight your way through ten levels full of Nazi soldiers. Your health is represented by a face, which gets bloodier the more damage you take. The only other aspect of concern is your gun, and the number of bullets remaining.

The Jaguar version of Wolfenstein is faster (30fps), has smoother animation and sounds better than its SNES predecessor. The main difference between this and the SNES game, however, is the re-inclusion of blood, id were adamant that Nintendo's child-orientated morality was not going to dog the Jag game.

Wolfenstein 3D doesn't tap the Jaguar's power fully, yet the game often feels too fast. Also, the lack of detail on the ceiling and the repetitive, rectangular scenery conspire to disorientate you. The cumbersome Jaguar joypad doesn't make for accurate aiming either. But there's still no reason why Jaguar owners shouldn't gain enjoyment from this, despite the fact that what originated as a shareware title has now had a £50 pricetag slapped on it.

Wolfenstein 3D is nothing new - and there are better games available for the Jaguar - but it will always be fun. However, with titles like AVP and Doom promised soon, you'd have to be desperate to dash out and buy this. But, of course, Jaguar owners are desperate.