Overall, I do have to say that Project Warlock is a pleasant treat to be had for people looking for retro styled games. The game plays like the old school shooters it odes to with some modern tweaking so gameplay isn't so stiff as it's source material. You play as the Lone Warlock, a mysterious magical gunslinger that's out to defeat the evil forces that plague the world. Traverse through a variety of locations ranging from medival castles, large industrial zones, sewers, graveyards, and more. Packed with secrets and various items to defeat all threats that cross your path. The guns and magic in the game feel good to use and don't overshadow each other. Using both adds some strategy to the game and makes things more interesting than just your standard fare grindhouse-esque shooting from start to finish. Where no brains are needed, just shoot whatever attacks you. The gameplay is fairly straight forward, shoot your way through level to level without dying. Upgrade your character to the playstyle of your choosing and defeat the boss of each episode. Pacing is just right where nothing overstays it's welcome and things move forward enough to keep things fresh. One thing I am in the middle on is the soundtrack. It's not bad, but it's rather random at times. Some of the songs feel out of place with certain parts of the game. IE, a dark gore filled dungeon has a happy theme to it. Not sure if that's apart of the games humor or just poor sound track design. But it's nothing too serious.
Honestly this has got to be one of the most fun gangster sims I have ever played. But for those that play more relaxed sim games. Be careful when picking this title up, as there is quite a lot to learn about running a crime family. You will have to get used to planning every move very carefully in order to get the odds stacked in your favor. For example, think your hired thug can simply walk up and shoot a rival thug in the face with a hidden trench gun and walk away clean? No way. You have to make sure the cops are in your pocket in the area otherwise they may very well hunt your crew down. You will also have to keep a sharp eye out on rival families, just because your in an alliance with one does not mean they will stay loyal to the partnership forever. They may try to wipe you out more peacefully then by force. Such as stealing profits from your territory. Trying to bleed you dry and such. Overall, a good gangster sim for those that are looking for a challenge and hours of entertainment. Not to mention, a good game for the price tag it bears.
