.jpg)
With all of the hype surrounding the movie, one could only hope the downloadable game would pack a mean, sadistic Rorschach punch, giving its fans all that they could possibly handle. And for a short while, it delivers with a dark, brooding style -- but for the remaining two-and-a-half hours of gameplay, it's (unfortunately) a monotonous snoozer, lacking any innovative freshness or replay value whatsoever.
From the moment you start the game, you'll be in awe, as the title throws everything but the kitchen sink your way, encasing some of the most impressive graphics ever seen in a marketplace item, as well as booming sound and phenomenal lighting aspects, really throwing you directly into the jailhouse with life-like characters and policemen ready to tear your head off. You may select either Rorschach or Night Owl to begin the six-chapter quest with, each comprising their own personality, stance and range of moves. But your galloping heartbeat will soon taper off, as you seem to do the same thing over and over -- kill the villains, sometimes pull a lever or two, kill more, move on. And repeat.
What makes it bearable, however, is the descriptive, bone-chilling ways to murder your enemies, using a combination of light and heavy attacks, sometimes with weapons. By sending your opponent into a daze, you'll sometimes be given the opportunity for a one-button finisher, normally resulting in bashing their head in until blood squirts across your screen -- very gory, indeed. Button mash or use reversals and be tactical -- it's up to you, they both work (quite easily, too). Be prepared to do it for three full hours (and six if you play with both guys).
There's no co-op online gameplay or multiplayer present, although there are a dozen achievements to unlock, so hey, get that gamerscore up if that's what you're all about. But you'll have to ask yourself if $20 is worth it. And if you're a Watchmen fanatic looking for something to really sink your teeth into, don't go biting on this one -- you'll be left hungry.
Pros: Impeccable graphics, sharp sound, aggressive killing tactics
Cons: Too simple, lack of gameplay diversity, pricey for what you get
Sound: 4.25
Control: 3.5
Graphics: 4.5
Fun Factor: 3.75
The Info: Platform: XBLA, Publisher: Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, Developer: Deadline Games, ESRB: M, Players: One, Price: 1600 MS Points XBLA ($19.99)
Related Links: Check out some weekly 360 DLC and Days of Arcade as well. If you're a PC guy check out Tidal, a flash game you can't miss.
