Summary
- Release Year: 1997
- Genres: Hack and slash/Beat ’em up
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation, Sega Saturn
- Developers: Gray Matter
- Publishers: Acclaim Entertainment
The Crow: City of Angels (1997)
Released in 1997, The Crow: City of Angels is a 3D fighting game based on the popular comic book series and film of the same name. Developed by Crystal Dynamics and published by Acclaim Entertainment, the game follows the story of Eric Draven, the titular Crow, as he seeks revenge against those who murdered him and his fiancée.
Gameplay
The Crow: City of Angels is a 3D beat ’em up game in which the player controls Eric Draven as he fights his way through hordes of enemies. The game features a variety of hand-to-hand combat moves, as well as a wide range of weapons that can be used to dispatch foes. These weapons include pistols, shotguns, knives, pool cues, pipes, and even steel drums.
The game is played from a third-person perspective, and the player can move freely around the environment. The combat is fast-paced and visceral, and the player must use a combination of strategy and skill to defeat their enemies.
Story
The story of The Crow: City of Angels follows Eric Draven, a rock musician who is murdered along with his fiancée, Shelly Webster, on the night of their wedding. A year later, Eric is resurrected by a crow and given the power to avenge his and Shelly’s deaths.
As the Crow, Eric sets out to find those responsible for his murder and bring them to justice. His journey takes him through the dark and dangerous streets of City of Angels, where he encounters a variety of enemies, including gangsters, thugs, and even supernatural beings.
Graphics
The Crow: City of Angels was one of the first 3D fighting games released on the PlayStation, and its graphics were impressive for the time. The game’s environments are detailed and atmospheric, and the character models are well-animated. The game also features a number of impressive visual effects, such as slow-motion bullet time and dynamic lighting.
Sound
The Crow: City of Angels features a soundtrack that is both atmospheric and adrenaline-pumping. The game’s music is a mix of heavy metal, industrial, and ambient tracks, and it perfectly captures the game’s dark and gritty tone. The game’s sound effects are also top-notch, and they help to create a truly immersive experience.
Reception
The Crow: City of Angels received mixed reviews upon its release. Some critics praised the game’s graphics, combat, and story, while others criticized its repetitive gameplay and lack of innovation. However, the game was a commercial success, and it remains a cult classic among fans of the Crow franchise.
Legacy
The Crow: City of Angels is remembered as one of the best 3D fighting games of its era. The game’s dark and gritty atmosphere, visceral combat, and memorable characters helped it to stand out from the crowd. The game has also been praised for its innovative use of 3D graphics and sound design.
The Crow: City of Angels has been ported to a number of platforms over the years, and it remains a popular choice for retro gamers. The game is also available on modern consoles via digital download.
Conclusion
The Crow: City of Angels is a classic 3D fighting game that still holds up today. The game’s dark and gritty atmosphere, visceral combat, and memorable characters make it a must-play for fans of the Crow franchise and beat ’em up games in general.
Review Score
7.5/10
