Project Warlock is a throwback to the simpler times when shooters were not so much about pretentious cinematics and more about fast-paced action and mindless fun. After completing the game, I feel this is quite a success, despite a few flaws. If you check the trailer, you will have a pretty good idea of what you are getting here. This is a game about killing hordes of enemies, getting the red, blue, and yellow keys to open the matching doors and finding the exit. It may sound like a boring premise for some, but what the game does, it does really well. To keep it short, here's where the game shines: +Cool retro graphics and smooth framerate. The lighting effects stand out. +RPG elements thrown in the mix. You can upgrade your character, weapons, and spells. +Tons of weapons and meaty gun action. Seeing enemies blow up is a joy. +Good variety of levels, locations, and enemies. +Relentless action and very responsive controls (keyboard + mouse, as it must be). +Well-designed, maze-like levels (yet not too hard). +Some replay value. You can restart the game and choose different upgrades and skills. Despite all this, you must know that there are a few areas where the game could see improvement. -Quite a few locations are too dark. You do have a flashlight of sorts, but you will use it too often. -The main character is too quiet. Some more feedback when you are getting hit would be nice. -The music is a mixed bag, though EVERY level has a different track, which is nice. -While there are about 20 guns, there are only 10 spells. -The game gets a bit easy towards the end due to balance issues. None of these issues are too serious, except maybe for the last one, which made the game a little less tense and enjoyable for me during the last chapter. With the 'right' upgrades and stats, your character will be too overpowered. All in all, for $11, you could do much worse. Don't hesitate to grab this game if you have the slightest interest in retro shooters.
