Summary

• Release Year: 1998
• Genres: Simulator
• Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
• Developers: Software Refinery
• Publishers: Gremlin Interactive, Interplay Entertainment

Hardwar (1998): A Cyberpunk Vehicular Combat Masterpiece

Released in 1998, Hardwar is a cyberpunk-themed vehicular combat game set on the barren moon Titan. Developed by the now-defunct company Vektor Logic and published by Atari, Hardwar was a critical and commercial success, praised for its innovative gameplay, stunning graphics, and immersive world-building.

Story

The game is set in the year 2098 on the barren moon Titan, where the last remnants of humanity eke out a meager existence in the city of Misplaced Optimism. The city is controlled by neo-feudal corporations and mutant underworld cartels, who fight for the right to exploit the moon’s worthless riches.

The player takes on the role of a scavenger operator, a lone wolf who fights to survive in this harsh and unforgiving world. The player’s goal is to earn enough money to buy a ticket off-planet, and escape the oppressive regime of Titan.

Gameplay

Hardwar is a vehicular combat game at its core. The player controls a heavily armed vehicle and must fight their way through hordes of enemies in order to complete missions and progress through the game. The game features a variety of vehicles to choose from, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses.

In addition to the vehicular combat, Hardwar also features a number of RPG elements. The player can upgrade their vehicle with new weapons and armor, and can also learn new skills and abilities. The game also features a branching storyline, with the player’s choices affecting the outcome of the game.

Graphics and Sound

Hardwar was one of the first games to use the LithTech engine, which was also used in games such as Shogo: Mobile Armor Division and Blood II: The Chosen. The LithTech engine allowed for stunning graphics, with detailed textures and realistic lighting. The game’s sound design is also top-notch, with a mix of industrial and electronic music that perfectly captures the game’s cyberpunk atmosphere.

Reception

Hardwar was a critical and commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, stunning graphics, and immersive world-building. Hardwar was also nominated for a number of awards, including Game of the Year at the 1998 Golden Joystick Awards.

Legacy

Hardwar is considered to be one of the best vehicular combat games ever made. The game’s innovative gameplay, stunning graphics, and immersive world-building have influenced a number of subsequent games, including the Grand Theft Auto series and the Saints Row series. Hardwar remains a popular game today, with a dedicated community of fans who keep the game alive through online multiplayer and modding.

Conclusion

Hardwar is a cyberpunk vehicular combat masterpiece that still holds up today. The game’s innovative gameplay, stunning graphics, and immersive world-building make it a must-play for fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding game to play, then Hardwar is definitely worth checking out.

Review Score

7.5/10

Art

Cover Art

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