The Incredible Hulk Ultimate Destruction - T
Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that the subtext of the entire Hulk series -- including this game -- revolves around releasing repressed rage, and the desire normally reserved, rational people have to solve their problems with physical violence. The Hulk destroys everything in his path, tossing cars, battling helicopters, and swinging a club is a gruesome game of human "baseball."
Families that decide to play this game should talk to about why such widespread, wanton destruction is fun. Is there a sense of satisfaction that comes with such unfettered destructive power? Are games like this cathartic or do they glorify the worst of human nature? Why has this character been successful for so long (Hulk is more than 40 years old)? Why is the Hulk a sympathetic character if all he does is smash stuff?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Aaron Lazenby
The makers of the latest, and best, Hulk-based video game clearly understand that the Hulk is a cartoon representation of the human compulsion to smash something when life becomes too frustrating or infuriating to bear.
Why else would they go to such extensive efforts to create a highly interactive, expansive game world for players to crush, smash, hurl, pummel, and otherwise tear apart? The combination of quality gameplay, respect for the source material, a detailed story, and first-rate production values makes THE INCREDIBLE HULK ULTIMATE DESTRUCTION one of the best games of 2005.
The game starts with the attempted assassination of Dr. Bruce Banner, who has hidden himself away in the mountains to protect the world from the damage his mean temper can cause. Flushed out of hiding, Banner is forced to continue his research on the run, attempting to reverse the effects of the Gamma radiation that causes his transformation into the Hulk.
With the help of a fellow scientist, Banner implants instructions deep into his brain to direct the Hulk to accomplish tasks that support his experiments. But along the way Banner uncovers a secret plot by mutant-hating government agent Blonsky to destroy the Hulk and quietly implement martial law to serve his own secret, sinister goals.
Players control the Hulk on his various missions, leaping across rooftops in the sprawling city or dashing through the desert to gather materials to cure Banner or dismantle Blonsky's plan. Along the way, Hulk uses an impressive array of attack moves to battle rocket-launching soldiers, tanks, helicopters, and robotic Hulkbusters. And if a few buildings are toppled, some cars are tossed through the air, an occasional tree is used as a club, so be it.
Parents may have some trouble stomaching the sheer scale of devastation their kids can wreak in the game. Innocent pedestrians are killed by Hulk's mere walking, while more grisly violence can be exacted with some effort (think holding a person in one fist while pummeling him with the other). Buses can be wielded above the Hulk's head and tossed with abandon. Explosions are massive (and impressive) with much collateral damage. The only consolation is that the game features no blood.
But this a polished product. The city and buildings have amazing detail -- distinct neighborhoods, unique architecture, meticulous texture and features. Players will enjoy exploring the wide open world here, and playing with some of the Hulk's powers: jumping across the city without touching the ground, stacking cars on top of a building, or swinging a club is a gruesome game of human "baseball." Players will quickly master the basic controls, but dozens of special moves may require some time to master.
In the end, this is a game that parents and kids may actually like playing together: It will entice Hulk fans -- and win over new ones. Who can resist the urge to smash a car after all? Especially when the car's carcass turns into a pair of steel boxing gloves, perfect for causing even more destruction.
Rate It!
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Sexual ContentA svelte female opponent is as close as this game comes to sexy. |
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ViolenceRampant destruction of cars, buildings, people, tanks, fast food restaurants, you name it. But the violence against humans is bloodless and does not factor much into the game. |
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LanguageSoldiers use slight profanity. |
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Social BehaviorThe Hulk represents the violent tendencies that live inside every human. Indulging in "ultimate destruction" means indulging that beast. |
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CommercialismThe Hulk is a merchandising franchise, and players earn and find Hulk comics. There is also a gallery to view vintage Hulk comics. |
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