Gauntlet Legends (DC) (Gauntlet Legends (DC))

Member Name: thole09

Product:	Gauntlet Legends (DC)
Date:	14/10/09 (32 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Gameplay, Graphics

Disadvantages: Sound

"Gaunt Legends" is a video game which was released for the Sega Dreamcast in 2000 by Midway. It is an action adventure game based on an earlier freestanding arcade game of the same name; itself a remake of the original 1980s "Gauntlet". In the United States, the game received a rating of "T" which deemed it appropriate for ages 13 and above.

The gameplay of this title is essentially what was seen in the 1980s. Players assume the role of one of eight available characters and begin their adventure. The game revives the original four characters seen in the 80s (Wizard, Warrior, Valkyrie and Archer) and implements a further four to the mix. What let me down slightly is the new characters generally correspond to the original four in terms of strengths and weaknesses; Knight to Valkyrie, Sorceress to Wizard, Jester to Archer and Dwarf to Warrior. After so many years without a remastered release of this title, I would have liked to see more creativity in the character design. After selecting a character the player is informed of his or her quest. The evil Skorne has escaped from captivity and has scattered 12 Rune Stones across five regions, and has assigned a guardian to protect them in its absence. It is up to the player's character to collect these stones and banish Skorne back into captivity.

I've found this title continually difficult. It definitely keeps with what I experienced so long ago. Monsters attack in seemingly endless swarms from visible generators. Rather than attacking the problem the player should attack the source as eliminating monster generators will prevent further swarms from that specific object. Attacking monsters does have its benefits, however, as the Gauntlet Legends has implemented a character leveling system. Much like a roleplaying game, set levels of experience points will increase the player's strength, magic, armor and speed. The game does become monotonous at times due to the silent necessity of increasing these levels. A more powerful character will be able to more easily deal with the increasingly difficult monsters as the game progresses. It's not a title where one can simply rush from point A to point B and hope for the best.

Graphically, the game has been overhauled from top to bottom. The title now offers a slick three dimensional experience while retaining the allure of dungeons and underground seen in earlier games. The level designs are quite dark but adequate light sources are provided in the form of flame torches which increase the sense of visibility to a tolerable level. I didn't experience any navigation problems as it seems the ground remains well lit which facilitates easy movement. Both characters and monsters are nicely detailed and are accented by smooth moving weapons. The overall smooth framerate contributes well to the playing atmosphere and I didn't experience any slowdown or lag. The sound was a bit disappointing and greatly contrasts the graphics. Due to the high amount of monsters attacking the player at any given time, the same groans of pain are heard constantly and this becomes very draining to listen to. It is offset well by the darker musical scores that fit in well with the game's setting, but I did find it difficult to listen to the same sound effects on a frequent basis.

Overall, Gauntlet Legends is an excellent game which I would recommend to prospective buyers. I was happy to see it keep with its original arcade roots and the technical capabilities showcased in this game serve as an excellent tribute to such a neglected title.

Summary: Thumbs up