Smuggler’s Run: War Zones Review

One drawback is the lack of any real purpose to what you are doing. There is a sorry attempt to try to inject some kind of a story in between the levels, but it fails. You basically run mystery packages of ‘contraband’ to some random location over and over. But the gameplay more than makes up for it, and soon you won’t even care why you are doing what you are, you’ll be way too concentrated on the task at hand. Occasionally you’ll have to ram your vehicle into something to destroy it, which is a nice change of pace, albeit a shallow way to mix up the gameplay. There are also a few levels where you need to follow another enemy vehicle, which is a good change of pace. Easy to control, simple to learn, yet much room to improve on skills. No real story or motive to push you on, except for the crazy action, that is.

Fun

This is the by far the most off-road fun you will find on your GCN, and appears it will be for a while. The chases and explosions will keep you coming back again and again. There is also an awesome checkpoint-racing mode that will turn your action game into a racing game. The multiplayer, when played with 4, is also extremely entertaining. And the free ride mode is great when you want to explore the massive world at your own pace. Basically, it would be a shame for any car-based game fan to miss out on this one, especially if you only own a GCN. Insane car chases and a crazy out-of-control feel to everything. Clearly GCN’s most enjoyable off-road game yet.

There are many modes of play, and you can use all the vehicles, and levels from the single player, including the 2 bonus worlds. Playing with 4 people is something that must be experienced. It requires teamwork, strategy, and skill. Often, I would end up losing to people who had never played the game before, which is a testament to the ease of use, and how involved this will get your friends into. [i]Angel Studios went above and beyond to make sure that the multiplayer is both easy and fun. Many options and modes.

Replay

Although I could see myself playing this game over again, it won’t happen any time soon. If you don’t buy too many games, then I could see someone going through it again to the hoverbike. The multi-player will keep you coming back for more again and again, and the racing mode is great when you get tired of the regular single player. Single player may have you working towards 100% GREAT scores, and multiplayer will keep you coming back for more.

Overall

This is an excellent game. If you have played the PS2 versions, expect a refined, graphically tweaked version of the game known as Smuggler’s Run 2. I would recommend a rental, and if you have money to spend, and really enjoyed it, go and purchase it. If you are desperate for a GOOD racing/car game, this is the only one for the GCN you’ll find for now (except for the great but short Burnout). If you’re looking for off-road insanity, look no further. This game looks, feels, and plays wonderfully.