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A Trip Down E3 Lane

(Part 1 of 2)

The glimmering lights, the hot women, the anticipated games, and the bilious corporate suits were back – this time with an all new arsenal. Though I only had the chance to go for one day, E3 2003 did not disappoint. I think it would be easier to run through some of the highlights, and some of the “not so” highlights.

HIGHLIGHTS:

HALO 2

Upon entering the convention center, I flocked towards the long awaited demo of Halo 2. though a movie of one of the levels, standing by was a Bungie employee playing through the level (surprise, surprise – there was no health meter). The demo lasted eight minutes and truly brought into perspective what to expect. The luscious graphics, racing sound, and heart-pounding action left everyone viewing in awe.

The new stuff included were Double-Uzis, an all new scope on the standard rifle, a new peeking stance, the ability to use combo attacks with weapons, and the most awe striking was the ability to jump onto the vehicle and “persuade” the driver to calmly exit the vehicle. All in all Halo 2 delivered in its promise, and hopefully the same excitement will be intact when the multiplayer demo comes through.

E3 RATING: 9/10

METAL GEAR SOLID 3: SNAKE EATER

Once passed the realization that the name is actually going to be on the box, I glanced over to watch the video-demo showcasing the new features and graphics. At first glance MGS3 looks almost identical to its forerunner, carrying the same style as the first. That impression was soon thrown out the window. As the video progressed as did the new features soon to be added. The graphics were on the same level as the previous Metal Gear, but one must remember that the title is far from perfect at this stage of development. MGS3 will also feature a new locale – the jungle. The nostalgic factor of large trees and numerous items of “green” imagery really brought the scene to life, and became believable. Another twist to the new game will be the character controlled. Apparently the game will take place during the 1960’s, as revealed at the start of the video. Solid Snake (the protagonist from MGS and MGS2) was born sometime during the 1970’s. The relevance of that is:

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the character you will control will be his father, which adds to its innovation list.

E3 RATING: 8.5/10

STARCRAFT: GHOST

Blizzards first console title was on display and had a playable demo. Not to be confused with Starcraft 2, the sub name “ghost” implies a single character. The game will let you control a terran ghost through numerous stealth missions. Mixing elements of Splinter Cell and Dues Ex, the game looks brilliant.

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One memorable feature of the game was its ability to cloak Nova (the main character). Once cloaked, she can go pass by enemies undetected, or attack them for a quiet attack. The graphics make this feature standout to its peak, taking full advantage of the Xbox hardware.

There were no immediate downsides of the title, creating a near perfect design of what should be a great title. Since on the subject of blizzard, those expecting an announcement of Starcraft 2, should put your champagne bottles away for next year. There was no official announcement of the game, but Blizzard keeps hinting at the creation of one. Not to fret, Starcraft: Ghost will leave gamers with memorable characters and moments, just as the game did on its beloved PC.

E3 RATING: 9/10

That should wrap it up for the first batch of titles. Next week, three more jaw dropping games that swept the floor, and the “worst/least impressive” titles of E3.

- Eric “element” Lahiji

(May 18, 2003)


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