Review:

Duke Nukem 3D is the third in the chronicles of Duke Nukem. Duke's first two adventures were of the side-scrolling variety, but this one is a first-person 3D action fest. Aliens have taken over Earth (and all it's chicks), and that's something Duke just won't stand for. As the game begins, Duke has just been shot down over Los Angeles, in an alien-infested part of Hollywood. Thin plot, but Duke makes up for it in action. The environment is incredibly realistic, and most objects may be destroyed or interacted with in some way. The developers have taken measures to make sure everything looks just right. The movie theatre looks real, and even has a useable restroom (only one, though). The story takes you to a spaceport and eventually the moon in the second episode, then it's back to Earth for the finale. The alien enemies are very well-done, each with their own special sounds, movements and abilities. This game never gets boring. The arsenal in Duke is also different and unique from the normal ones found in 3D action games like this. Sure, it's got a pistol, shotgun, and grenade launcher, but other weapons include a shrink ray (shrink your enemies, then squish 'em with your foot), a freeze ray (freeze them solid, then shatter them with a kick, or a single bullet), pipe bombs (toss them, then detonate from anywhere you want), and a laser trip mine (place it, then when anything breaks the beam... boom!). The game is also very well balanced for network play. Many of these weapons are not stronger then others, just different. You will also find things like the steroids, which give your speed a boost - perfect as a defense, or the jet pack which may be used offensively OR defensively. The music during the game lends a good mood, and Duke's voice is just hilarious. He always says something funny when you least expect it. The game also features multiple high-resolution modes, from the basic 320x200 to 800x600 with many other combinations in between. To use these, however, you will need a video card supporting these modes, or a utility like SciTech's Display Doctor. The gameplay is a lot of fun. Most games of this genre have simply been the run around and shoot things type, and Duke is no exception. However, this game has an exceptional quality - fun! It's just more fun than most others of it's kind. It's the little things, like seeing yourself in a mirror, finding an alien on the toilet, or tipping the strippers, that sort of thing. It all comes together seamlessly to make a superb game. Guest stars also make an unexpected appearance within the game. Luke Skywalker, Indiana Jones, and The Terminator are just examples of things that show up somewhere within the game. 3D Realms has also included the first two Duke games on the CD as well as the level editor used to make the game. Players can use the editor to make additional levels to share with others. The game has the potential to go on forever. Long live Duke!

Bottom Line: 3D action with an edge. Humour, weapons, and lots of little extras make this more than worthwhile. Highest recommendation.