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Review of Area 51 on PlayStation 2

by Gemma Looksby Gemma Looksby photo Apr 2005
Cover image of Area 51 on PS2
Gamefings Score: 7.5
Platform: PS2 PS2 logo
Released: 25 Apr 2005
Genre: First-person shooter
Developer: Midway Studios Austin
Publisher: Midway Games

Introduction

If you ever wished to dive headfirst into the world of government conspiracies while blasting extraterrestrials and avoiding mutant miscreants, then <i>Area 51</i> might just be the hilarious trip you're looking for! Grab your hazmat suit (and perhaps a tinfoil hat) because we're about to explore the fun but slightly chaotic corridors of this 2005 PS2 gem.

Gameplay

In <i>Area 51</i>, you'll clamber into the boots of Ethan Cole - the world's unluckiest HAZMAT operative. Your mission, should you choose to accept it (and you don't really have a choice), is to clean up a nasty mutagenic virus that's turned people into angry mutants. Armed to the teeth with an arsenal of both human and alien weapons, you'll dual-wield everything from shotguns to SMGs! Because why use one gun when you can use two and still get a sore wrist? The gameplay is a delightful mix of shooting and scanning. Forget about just shooting blindly; you're equipped with a fancy scanner that lets you inspect the environment like a CIA agent fussing over their coffee mug. Just avoid using your weapon while scanning, or you might accidentally vaporize evidence. And did I mention? Mid-game, the virus decides to give you a makeover, allowing you to turn into a mutant yourself. If you've ever wanted to go from regular Joe to angry green creature, this game has you covered! Health? You can chug medical syringes like a contestant at a drinking contest or feast on the damaged remains of your enemies (appetizing, right?). Who knew workplace wellness could be so... mutant? This little touch just cements the bizarre tone of the game, where you'll question your choices as you carefully manage your mutation and health simultaneously.

Graphics

7

Conclusion

All in all, <i>Area 51</i> is not just a game; it's a cheeky love-letter to conspiracy theorists everywhere. The blend of humor, chaos, and a storyline that feels like it was written by that one uncle who rambles about Area 51 at family gatherings makes for a unique experience. It may not be perfect, but hey, neither are many of our LIFE choices. If you're looking for a game where you can wade through clowns in hazmat suits, shoot things, and occasionally fling yourself into a mutant-induced form of chaos, give <i>Area 51</i> a shot. It's not just a trip to the government's most elite secret; it's a downright entertaining overload of absurdity wrapped in over-the-top gunplay. So grab your controller, hit start, and let the weirdness unfold!

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