Interstate '82 Preview:
gamespot.co.uk
Activision had a surprise hit on its hands with its 70s inspired combat driving game, Interstate 76. And not being one to waste an opportunity, here comes the sequel. If Interstate 76 owed much to the Dukes of Hazard for its style, Interstate 82 is more Miami Vice. Gone are the flares, sideburns and afros, and in are the wet-look curly perms, pastel linen suits and blacker-than-black sunglasses.
Based on the new hardware only Heavy Gear II game engine, Interstate 82 is a slicker game than its rough hewn predecessor. Expect to see indoor and outdoor sections with a great deal more graphical detail than last time; effects such as fog, reflective water, lightning and rain; realistic physics which affect car handling, weapons and damage, and a multiplayer option that allows anyone to join at anytime.
Interstate 76 was essentially a revenge story. You played vigilante Groove Champion who, aided by his buddy Taurus, set out to avenge the death of his sister, Jade. Six years have passed since then and things have changed, including the protagonist. Groove is missing, and now, as Taurus, you must find him before the mob does. Your new sidekick is Groove's younger sister, Sky, whose bizarre Thompson Twins hairdo, motorbike and no-nonsense attitude would be enough to discourage any lustful thoughts.
The story develops into a conspiracy involving the government, assassination plots and South American revolutionaries, and with each new mission comes a juicy bit of scene setting FMV.
You'll also find yourself chasing bad guys in places as diverse as Las Vegas, sewers, a shopping mall and a secret military base known as Area 49. Naturally, being the 80s you'll have a new selection of cars to play with, from gas guzzling sports models to the humble British mini, the occasional motorbike and even a helicopter. You'll be able to get out of your car, though this makes you vulnerable, and car-jack other vehicles.
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