WET

Developer: Bethesda Softworks
Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
Rating: M (Mature)
Price: $59.99

By Joe Ziemba

I went into playing this game with no expectations because I didn’t read any previews before it came out. Immediately after loading the game, I noticed the gritty theme to the main menu system. The illustrations were done nicely and integrated into the menu well. Starting the first level, I saw how that gritty theme wasn’t just in the menu but part of a theme throughout the game which reminded me of Quentin Tarantino films. This theme goes well with the gun slinging, blade wielding heroin Rubi. Of course as its common in games, she’s very attractive and we as the players get to stare at her behind during gameplay.

That gameplay was not extremely innovative. The action and control style was like a mash up between the Max Payne and Prince of Persia games. Rubi can jump through the air and off obstacles like The Prince and use bullet time shooting like Max Payne. This combination of styles does make for some exciting action sequences. Wet also makes use of highly scripted action sequences that are pretty entertaining to watch. However, the player has extremely limited control during this time only having to hit a single button periodically when prompted. The camera and movement controls were mediocre but didn’t seem to get in the way that much. Also, the sequential break down of each level became redundant very quickly.

Graphically, this game is not impressive. I’m guessing the developer skimped on texture quality hoping that the gritty theme covering everything would hide it. Unfortunately, it does not completely. The character’s motion capture during cut scenes, especially for the face, was also mediocre. However, the sound effects in the game were adequate and the music, although with no main stream titles, was good.

If you’re looking for your standard hack and slash shoot ’em up game than you’ll probably be satisfied with Wet. Just don’t expect anything very innovative and jaw dropping.