This is a review of the 3DO versions of SC2,
which I haven't seen one of yet here. Having played both
versions, I can say that the 3DO version is improved in
nearly every regard to the PC version, which of course
is great. I'll concentrate mainly on the differences, if
you've not played either version, PLAY IT NOW, then come
back here. The 3DO version comes on one CD, with a
combination manual and 'role-playing' guide (hint book),
with a nice full-color map. Full-motion video for the
intro and ending are excellent, better than anything in
SC3. The alien voices are for the most part very good,
with only one or two dissapointments, such as a
too-whiney Utwig. However, actually hearing the Orz
talk is physically disturbing (in a good way!). It
would be nice to have text in addition, but there is a
vcr-like feature if you missed something. The music is
improved, but most of the songs are the same.
Supermelee is excellent, with a smooth scrolling zoom,
an improvement over the discrete-level of the other
versions. There are other nice bonuses, such as
colorful 3D-rendered ship information screens. That
said, the actual game play graphics are slightly
upgraded versions of the PC graphics. The aliens are
still animated, the melee still 2D. (And I don't think
that's bad).
There are other minor differences between the
versions, mostly graphic upgrades. The one
disappointment is the end credits, which are just
normal, regular credits. If you've finished the PC
version, you know that's bad. Aside from that, this is
THE Definitive version of StarControl II. It was done by
Paul and Fred at Toys for Bob for Crystal Dynamics,
making it their last work on the StarControl Series. And
even tho the game is now nearly four years old, It still
looks and plays great. If you have a 3DO and don't have
SC2, get it! It's available most places for $5-$10 if
you can still find it. The real question: What if you
don't have a 3DO? If you're a StarControl fan, it's
nearly worth the price of the system for the game alone.
SuperMelee on a big screen TV has no equal. Systems are
available used or closeout for about the price of a new
PC game, and imho that is a bargian, even if you don't
use it for anything but playing StarCon and audio CD's.
Thank you, and do not forget to *enjoy the sauce*.
--Steve Manchir
(
geocities.com/timessquare/lair) (
geocities.com/timessquare)