Review: Rampage: Total Destruction (Wii)

Since debuting in 1986, Rampage has left its arcade host behind and appeared on a huge range of formats, refusing to be left behind while fellow cohorts have been consigned to history. The latest destination is the Nintendo Wii and on paper at least it seems like an ideal combination, but can the archaic game play find new life with the Wiimote?

Gamestyle cannot actually recall the last time we played a version of Rampage, but we certainly have played a few entries over the decades. This frankly is not ideal, as you would want a game to make a lasting impression, or failing that spark some enlightenment in our comprehensive library of gaming experiences. Still, the game play that centres on being the first to destroy everything has not evolved greatly. This is either a positive or negative aspect depending on your viewpoint.

This version has already appeared on the Gamecube and PlayStation 2, with the Wii edition receiving no enhancements, which is probably reflected in the retail price of under £20. This is in all aspects (bar the control method) is the Nintendo Gamecube edition and Midway did not seem fit to add exclusive content or push the game in any department. Pricing should not cloud our judgement or be used as an excuse as Total Destruction fails to take advantage of the Wii on many levels. While we can forgive controller issues as many developers are still coming to terms with the new technology, but grubby visuals and sound quality that makes a low rate MP3 seem pristine?

Ignoring the teenage angst for destruction, the supporting appeal here is to unlock all of the characters and upgrade their unique abilities. There are almost thirty in total, in an attempt to bring variety to proceedings. Regardless of what character you select the core problems with the game are immediately obvious to see. The Wiimote lends itself to three-dimensional environments and the subtlety of the control method. Obviously the latter is ditched in Total Rampage, which is all about pummelling sections of building and moving on. The former doesn’t get a look in, as Total Destruction is really two-dimensional and while that lets you focus on hitting, this is the Wii and we expect a little more besides. Even the arm swinging and punching thrusts become tiresome, not only physically but also mentally after the first hour.

While only a handful of modes are on offer these cannot be expected to bring any respite from the repetitive game play. The most time consuming is the Campaign Mode where you must work your way through the various suburbs and cities. By completing goals and clearing stages you slowly open up the locked characters and increase your tally. If you wish to test your technique against the clock then there is time trail, or for friends a rather limited and rudimentary multi-player option.

Visually this is no showcase for the abilities of the Wii. Graphically everything is shrouded in low resolutions and textures, a bland palate and a significant lack of detail all round. Even the animation is poor, although Gamestyle will admit to having never seen a monster in the flesh, they surely would move with more poise and grace than these creatures. The sound is also sub-par in terms of execution and quality, with the dramatic announcer failing to lift events from an endless slumber.

So while this could be construed as the first Wii budget release, to date it’s certainly the worst release for the system. As such your money is best spent elsewhere and hopefully Rampage will be locked away in intensive care for some much needed surgery. Somehow, deep down, Gamestyle knows it will return when really it should left to retro enthusiasts.

Rating: 2 / 10

Words by Jason Julier