In a world where first-person shooters are as common as low-quality reality shows, 'Medal of Honor: Underground' swoops in like a heroic action star ready to save our gaming souls. Targeting our need for adrenaline and a touch of historical drama, this sequel to the original 'Medal of Honor' drops players smack dab in the middle of World War II, tasked with the thrilling job of defeating Nazis, collecting sweet loot, and trying not to scream at the screen when elusive objectives make us feel like the world's worst soldier.
Gameplay is a platter of classic FPS goodness, where players don the role of Manon Batiste, a fierce French Resistance leader with a knack for sabotage and stealth. The levels are yours to traverse, filled with missions that require more than just shooting everything that moves. Upgrades to gameplay mechanics include retrieving disguises, sneaking around enemies, and much more. You can choose from an arsenal of weapons like semi-automatic rifles, grenades, and your good old-fashioned fists of fury—perfect for those moments when you feel like having a melee duel to the death. Oh, and watch out for the tanks; these big baddies are not just for show, they come to play! After completing the main storyline, we are treated to a quirky bonus level with enemies that include bomb-toting dogs—because what’s more terrifying than a four-legged friend with a penchant for explosion?
'Underground' serves up graphics that, while they may not hold up against today's dizzyingly high standards, are still lovingly crafted to immerse players in the gritty world of World War II. Expect a combination of artsy landscapes, destructible environments, and character models that—let’s be honest—look a bit like someone's had a rough day with a ‘Clipping Issue’ at every turn. But hey, it was 2000! That said, credit where it’s due: the design still captures the period’s despair and raw fight against oppression, adding some depth to the action.
'Medal of Honor: Underground' is akin to that quirky uncle at the family reunion who tells the best stories. It might not be the flashiest or most horrendously violent title out there, but it delivers a compelling mix of historical narrative with a rich variety of play styles and objectives. For players who appreciate military history wrapped up in a good ol' first-person shooter package, this game is set to impress. Grab your controller, gather your friends, and prepare to hop into a high-energy race against time, because when it comes to fighting Nazis, every minute counts! The game may have some dated mechanics and spotty graphics, but with an engaging story and unique missions, it serves as a perfect time capsule of what made WW2 shooters cool back in the day.