Oddworld: Stranger’s Wrath (2005)

by Nish
7 minutes read

Summary

Oddworld: Stranger’s Wrath combines action, adventure, and first-person shooting in a unique blend that sets it apart from other games. With its compelling story, dynamic gameplay, and vivid world, it provides an immersive and engaging experience that resonates with players long after the game is over.

Introduction

Oddworld: Stranger’s Wrath marks a bold departure from its predecessors, introducing a hybrid gameplay experience that combines elements of action, adventure, and first-person shooting. Players embark on a journey with the enigmatic Stranger, navigating through challenging terrains and facing off against outlaws in a quest for redemption and survival.

Synopsis

“Oddworld: Stranger’s Wrath” is an action-adventure video game that was developed by Oddworld Inhabitants and published by Electronic Arts for the Xbox. It was released on January 25, 2005. The game is the fourth overall entry of the Oddworld series.

The game introduces us to a mysterious bounty hunter known as the Stranger. The Stranger is not your typical hero; he’s rough around the edges, a loner who roams the rugged lands of Western Mudos. His mission is simple: capture wanted outlaws, dead or alive. The game utilizes both third and first-person perspectives.

The game begins with the Stranger catching various Outlaws to raise money for a mysterious operation. He travels through three towns inhabited by the bird-like Clakkerz; Gizzard Gulch, Buzzarton, and finally New Yolk City.

In Gizzard Gulch, the Stranger takes on Filthy Hands Floyd, an Outlaw who was ambushing the convoys which brought supplies into town. After defeating Floyd and his outlaw henchmen, the Stranger moves on to the Looten Duke, who is hiding out in the town’s water facility. After a fierce battle, the Duke is taken down, and the Stranger collects the bounty.

Upon returning to town, the Stranger learns that the local doctor is back in his office. The Stranger is in desperate need of a mysterious operation, which is later revealed to be surgery for the removal of his back legs. The doctor informs the Stranger that his operation will cost a total of 20,000 Moolah, due to the extreme complexity of the surgery.

While the Stranger is in town, he learns that Boilz Booty is coming to town to rescue his brother Blisterz. A battle ensues, with Boilz eventually being captured in the end. However, Gizzard Gulch has been severely damaged by Boilz and his gang throughout the battle. Thus, the Stranger moves on towards the next town to gain more Moolah.

One of the most notable features of the game is the “live ammunition” system, which is ammunition made of living creatures like fictional insects and small mammals, each with different uses and effects against enemies. This unique feature adds a layer of strategy to the gameplay, as players must decide which type of ammo to use in different situations.

As the Stranger ventures through Western Mudos, he hears that a town populated by Grubbs has been invaded by a demon. The Stranger decides to investigate, leading to more adventures and bounties.

Throughout the game, the Stranger’s character is developed and revealed, adding depth to the storyline. The game’s plot is filled with twists and turns, keeping players engaged and invested in the Stranger’s journey.

“Oddworld: Stranger’s Wrath” is a unique blend of action, adventure, and strategy. With its engaging storyline, innovative gameplay mechanics, and memorable characters, it stands as a noteworthy entry in the Oddworld series.

Characters

The Stranger, the game’s protagonist, is a mysterious bounty hunter with a complex past. Throughout the game, players encounter a variety of outlaws, each with their own quirks and challenges, as well as inhabitants of the Oddworld universe who offer insights and aid to the Stranger’s journey.

Gameplay

Stranger’s Wrath innovates with its dual gameplay perspective, enabling players to switch between third-person and first-person modes. The game features a wide range of ‘live’ ammunition, from critters to bugs, each offering unique abilities for capturing or defeating enemies. Stealth plays a crucial role, as does the strategic use of the environment to ambush foes or evade capture.

Conclusion

Oddworld: Stranger’s Wrath stands as a testament to the creativity and innovation possible in video game design. It offers a richly crafted world that invites exploration and engagement, making it a must-play title for fans of the genre and newcomers to the Oddworld series alike.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Fan Art

Fan Art Style: Normal

Fan Art Style: Retro

Fan Art Style: Modern

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