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Review of Mad Max on PlayStation 4

by Hemal Harris Hemal Harris photo Sep 2015
Cover image of Mad Max on PS4
Gamefings Score: 7.5
Platform: PS4 PS4 logo
Released: 01 Sep 2015
Genre: Action-adventure, Vehicular combat
Developer: Avalanche Studios
Publisher: Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment

Introduction

Welcome to the world of Mad Max, where the only thing more unpredictable than the weather is the sheer amount of flaming vehicular mayhem you're about to endure. In a land ravaged by war, scarcity, and an astonishingly high number of people named Scrotus, you'll find yourself stepping into the shoes of Max Rockatansky-not just any Max, but the original Mad Max. If you think driving a souped-up car in a post-apocalyptic wasteland sounds like fun, then buckle up-it's going to be a bumpy ride!

Gameplay

In Mad Max, the challenge isn't just surviving the wasteland; it's mastering the art of vehicular combat and hand-to-hand mayhem. A whopping 60% of the gameplay revolves around driving-so if you're the kind of person who gets flustered with parking in real life, well, you might want to practice in your driveway first. Players manipulate the Magnum Opus, their customizable ride, through a breathtakingly vast desert full of enemies, resources, and occasional mutant dogs who might just want to play fetch-or tear your face off. The car combat is refreshingly chaotic. Picture this: you're speeding towards an enemy convoy, gripping your controller like it's the last can of gasoline on Earth. Surprisingly, this game offers a slow-motion aiming mechanic that kicks in when you're driving and firing. It's like The Matrix but with more dust and fewer leather-clad guys in sunglasses. Here, you get to aim your harpoon at an enemy's wheels, causing their car to flip like it just saw a spider-a satisfying sight indeed. However, your challenges don't stop at vehicular warfare. On-foot combat is reminiscent of the Batman: Arkham series, featuring a free-flowing mechanic that allows you to string together punches, counters, and glorious takedowns. Max can throw down with more style than a bar fight on a Friday night, but be careful-combat can feel repetitive against the same old Scrotus minions. You'll unlock skills and moves for Max as you progress, keeping things somewhat fresh... if only just. Exploration plays a crucial role as well, as you'll need to scour the wasteland for resources, upgrades, and those oh-so-illusive history relics. Fancy making your Magnum Opus a fiery beast with spikes? You absolutely can, but remember: every improvement comes with its downsides. Want better speed? Hope you enjoy terrible steering, buddy! This kind of trade-off is what keeps you on your toes and maintains the tension while piloting through treacherous sandstorms, dodging enemy ambushes, or... trying not to hit a conveniently placed rock.

Graphics

Visually, Mad Max delivers stunning vistas of the barren wasteland, littered with rusted vehicles, crumbling civilizations, and enough dust to make an allergy sufferer weep. Avalanche Studios has really nailed the post-apocalyptic aesthetic-you'll find yourself appreciating the interesting color palette despite the lack of pleasing flora or fauna. Honestly, the sky has never looked so vibrant against a backdrop of desolation! The game's world is designed to feel alive, showcasing shifting landscapes that embody peril and beauty rolled into one explosive, dusty package. The dynamic weather and day-night cycle add a layer of immersion, but watch out! You might find yourself accidentally trapped in a relentless sandstorm, struggling to find a way out while your character's struggling for health and sanity. It's like being at a crowded concert with no bathroom in sight. Overall, the graphics help create a game world that is as stunning as it is inhospitable!

Conclusion

So, is Mad Max worth your time? Absolutely, if you're in the mood for some high-octane chaos and a sprinkle of humor with your brutality. While the game has its flaws-like the somewhat repetitive combat and quest designs that make you think Ubisoft is somewhere in the background-it offers an experience that can be both exhilarating and frustrating in equal measure. Expect to spend hours scavenging, upgrading your ride, and taking down Scrotus's endless minions. This game is a must-play for fans of the originals and newcomers alike. Just remember to hydrate-either before or after your gaming session, because if you're anything like Max, you'll spend most of your time running from one place to another without a water break. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go steal a car and give the wasteland another ride!

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