I wish the PS4 update had fixed the controls. The controls are very frustrating. But this game is a uniquely brutal game.
24 Reviews
Dark. But good.
midnightcub14 June 2019
Quality game
shadowman1238 November 2008
Manhunt is one of theses games which pleases the gore hound in me. It is release for behaviour deemed 'unwise' in reality not to mention the level of controversy the game received due to the Neo-Con Lobby of England and the Daily Mail. However in a way one could also argue the boundaries of taste giving the fascination people have with reality TV. Players are placed into the world of James Earl Cash who has been given a second shot at life only to be used a pawn in a brutal bloodsport with the 'director' pulling his strings. It cleverly ties into the Grand Theft Auto world although I would argue that Liberty City seems like Vegas compared to Carcer City. It is them up to the players to implicate extreme measures or violence and brutality to please their audience and at the same time keep them-selves alive. It is easy to get into , fun , fast paced and also very atmospheric with a still a few jump out moments and the gore level in it will satisfy any inner freak. I think the only thing about Manhunt is that it well the missions can be a very repetitive which may lead to concentration lapses which makes things frustrating from time to time. And also the camera might be a little bit frustrating at the worst of times. However putting that aside Manhunt has to be played as it is there to offend and please anybody who hates some self-righteous moralistic prate who wants to tell us how to live our lives. Check it out if your in a mood for blood. They have also recently lifted the ban on Manhunt 2 giving the media frenzy surrounding the first and I shall indeed be checking it out, hopefully it will live up to the hype.
MANHUNT : 8.3 OUT OF 10
THEY HAVE JUST KILLED JAMES EARL CASH. NOW THEY WANT TO KILL HIM AGAIN...
MANHUNT : 8.3 OUT OF 10
THEY HAVE JUST KILLED JAMES EARL CASH. NOW THEY WANT TO KILL HIM AGAIN...
I miss early 2000s Rockstar :(
tuckers-8874131 January 2021
The feeling that this game gives while playing is genuinely unrivalled in this type of game. The gameplay, while basic, has a lot to offer- from melee combat, to stealth, to gunplay. The world building and design of Carcer City and it's inhabitants is on par with even the greatest GTA game. I miss the Rockstar games of the early to mid 2000s, before they started to milk Grand Theft Auto V. Safe to say it's up there with my favourite Rockstar Games, despite it being a lot more basic than many of their other titles. One of my favourite horror games ever, intense, creepy and fun, would 100% recommend to any horror game fan.
This is better than Grand Theft Auto!
randyfromscream13 July 2017
This is one of the best game that Rockstar ever created like it's very underrated. James Earl Cash is the best part of the game because he's a stone cold killer. I like the idea of making the style of a snuff film theme. This game needs to be popular right now! I'm sick of tire of fanboys on YouTube making GTA click bait or saying how GTA is awesome. To the people that never play this game get a PS4, (I've play this on the Original Xbox) pay 14.99 on Play Station Stores and play it that's it. I want Manhunt 3 even though their's Manhunt 2 but I didn't play it yet so I want to play Manhunt 2.
Great voice acting and a simple, yet compelling story, make Manhunt a great game
solarisdeschain13 January 2005
Warning: Spoilers
*Possible Spoilers* Manhunt, the latest from Rockstar North, creators of the notorious Grand Theft Auto games, have branched out into Manhunt. Manhunt is a stealth game, and a great one at that.
I will not mention the story, as you can simply look up into the Plot Summary to get your details. I will say that the cutscenes are few, and at first glance the story doesn't really develop at all. But that isn't so. Unlike most games, Manhunt's story is progressed IN THE LEVELS. If you watch the situations that James Earl Cash is put in frequently, you see how his, and even Starkweather's characters develop.
Cash turns from a menace to society to a tragic hero, and Starkweather is revealed as a pitiful creature, who can only feel worthwhile by watching others suffering. Especially the level where he takes some things VERY personal to Cash, if you play that level, and the subsequent cutscene, you'll really see when the story becomes more than graphic gratuity.
Now on to the Gameplay. It's wonderful. It's really not like much that has been out before it. The Director (Starkweather) has Cash hide in the shadows) and the only way he can get through the night is by killing several gang members in the corrupt, impoverished, ****hole Carcer City. These games were hired by Starkweather to play the cat and find the mouse in these Manhunts. The thing is, Starkweather also wants Cash to kill these gang members in a special way.
Executions with melee weapons are what he wants. This is done by trailing behind the would-be Cash killers with your weapon, locked on to the back of their head, waiting to power up three different levels of gruesome death. There are several weapons in the game, and Cash can carry one of each type at a time. 1 big weapon (like a baseball bat, Shotgun, etc.) 1 small weapon (machete, hammer, revolver, etc.) one single use item (like a plastic bag or wire) and one throwing item (like a bottle, a brick, or the decapitated head of a gang member.)
The executions are wonderful, and are seen from a security camera, in other words, what Starkweather films. It's hard to get tired of the executions, but right when it happens things get switched up with the introduction of firearms.
This leads us to Graphics. The graphics in this game are beautiful. They use the same graphics engine as Vice City and Grant Theft Auto 3, but it has been severely powered up for this game. All the buildings are a washed out, uncaring gray. The entire city reeks of corruption, crushed dreams, and death, there nary is a happy moment or colorful place in the whole city. The cutscenes are beautiful, however sometime rats crawl around on the ground, and they look rather bad. On the whole, the game is beautiful.
Sound. Sound, in a stealth game, needs to be one of the most important components, and in Manhunt, it is. The ambient, yet rather dark, score is reminiscent of John Carpenter's own, and there's a moment in one of the later levels, where I was in a deserted casino, holed up in the highest indoor room there, and fending off a legion of corrupt cops. Since only a few bullets will stop Cash, it was quite difficult, and the way it mixed with the score is a moment I shall not forget. Aside from the score, the sound of the game is wonderful as well. Gunshots ring loud and clear, hitting a wall makes a scarily clear thud, especially with a gang member breathing down your throat. It sets up tension like almost no game I've ever played, except probably Metroid Prime.
I give the game a 9.7 out of ten.
I will not mention the story, as you can simply look up into the Plot Summary to get your details. I will say that the cutscenes are few, and at first glance the story doesn't really develop at all. But that isn't so. Unlike most games, Manhunt's story is progressed IN THE LEVELS. If you watch the situations that James Earl Cash is put in frequently, you see how his, and even Starkweather's characters develop.
Cash turns from a menace to society to a tragic hero, and Starkweather is revealed as a pitiful creature, who can only feel worthwhile by watching others suffering. Especially the level where he takes some things VERY personal to Cash, if you play that level, and the subsequent cutscene, you'll really see when the story becomes more than graphic gratuity.
Now on to the Gameplay. It's wonderful. It's really not like much that has been out before it. The Director (Starkweather) has Cash hide in the shadows) and the only way he can get through the night is by killing several gang members in the corrupt, impoverished, ****hole Carcer City. These games were hired by Starkweather to play the cat and find the mouse in these Manhunts. The thing is, Starkweather also wants Cash to kill these gang members in a special way.
Executions with melee weapons are what he wants. This is done by trailing behind the would-be Cash killers with your weapon, locked on to the back of their head, waiting to power up three different levels of gruesome death. There are several weapons in the game, and Cash can carry one of each type at a time. 1 big weapon (like a baseball bat, Shotgun, etc.) 1 small weapon (machete, hammer, revolver, etc.) one single use item (like a plastic bag or wire) and one throwing item (like a bottle, a brick, or the decapitated head of a gang member.)
The executions are wonderful, and are seen from a security camera, in other words, what Starkweather films. It's hard to get tired of the executions, but right when it happens things get switched up with the introduction of firearms.
This leads us to Graphics. The graphics in this game are beautiful. They use the same graphics engine as Vice City and Grant Theft Auto 3, but it has been severely powered up for this game. All the buildings are a washed out, uncaring gray. The entire city reeks of corruption, crushed dreams, and death, there nary is a happy moment or colorful place in the whole city. The cutscenes are beautiful, however sometime rats crawl around on the ground, and they look rather bad. On the whole, the game is beautiful.
Sound. Sound, in a stealth game, needs to be one of the most important components, and in Manhunt, it is. The ambient, yet rather dark, score is reminiscent of John Carpenter's own, and there's a moment in one of the later levels, where I was in a deserted casino, holed up in the highest indoor room there, and fending off a legion of corrupt cops. Since only a few bullets will stop Cash, it was quite difficult, and the way it mixed with the score is a moment I shall not forget. Aside from the score, the sound of the game is wonderful as well. Gunshots ring loud and clear, hitting a wall makes a scarily clear thud, especially with a gang member breathing down your throat. It sets up tension like almost no game I've ever played, except probably Metroid Prime.
I give the game a 9.7 out of ten.
They don't make games like this anymore
danherrera311 January 2020
I must of played this game 100 times ..I got 5 stars on every scene (on hardcore mode)..Then I discovered the "cheat modes" (that can only be accessed if you get 5 stars on hardcore mode in every scene ).I haven't played this game in years..But, I still have it !! Definitely one of my favorites !
''You're stacking those corpses up like it was Judgement Day!''
Rabical-919 March 2016
Warning: Spoilers
'Manhunt' is perhaps best remembered now for the controversy it provoked when it first appeared in 2003. In fact, one person even referred to it as 'The 'Clockwork Orange' of video games!'. It was all about a death row prisoner who was bent on getting revenge on those who attempted to take his life. The game's gory and bloodthirsty nature unfortunately made too much of an impact on impressionable young kids, particularly on a young boy in England who killed his best friend with a hammer after playing it, which led to the subsequent banning of the game in some countries ( in fact, in some parts of the world it was allegedly deemed an offence to own a copy ). For that reason, 'Manhunt' has sadly not received the acclaim it deserves. A great shame as in my view, it is a highly enjoyable ( if extremely gory ) and chilling gaming experience. A superb way to get pent-up frustration and anger out of your system after a hard day's grind.
The whole thing takes place in the desolate, run-down area of Carcer City, where a female news anchor is investigating into the case of the execution of James Earl Cash, a death row prisoner who is sentenced to execution via a lethal injection, which actually turns out to be a sedative, as James finds out when he regains consciousness and is instructed by a sinister voice coming from an earpiece which has been lodged into his ear to carry out a mission. The voice turns out to be Lionel Starkweather ( or 'The Director' as he calls himself ), a corrupt Los Santos filmmaker who the news-lady is attempting to dig up dirt upon.
Starkweather promises Cash his freedom, but only upon completion of his mission. He must commit murder against a number of violent criminal gangs such as The Hoods, The Skinz, The Wardogs, The Smileys and The Cerberus to name but several. Other villains include the psychotic Ramirez and the hideously deformed Piggsy.
Cash is seen to be fighting in a number of places, even in a mental asylum of all places. Each and every murder he commits is more gruesome than the last. Starkweather's comeuppance when it finally comes is greatly satisfying.
I think by now you have managed to sum things up pretty well. Made by Rockstar North, the same lot behind the 'Grand Theft Auto' games, 'Manhunt' is a little forgotten gem of a game. Granted it may not be for everyone but then not everyone likes the same thing. The killing scenes are immensely terrifying, especially the execution scenes ( which can be performed by any number of weapons ranging from plastic bags, baseball bats, crowbars etc ) which if performed properly can be extremely wince-inducing. Some of the dialogue in the game is hilarious, such as one of the guys in the lunatic asylum saying to himself: ''I recognise these footprints, they are from my shoes!''. Also funny is the gangs, whilst waiting to attack you, singing children's nursery rhymes to themselves such as 'One Potato, Two Potato' or 'B-I-N-G-O' ).
Despite the controversy stirred up by the game, the sequel, 'Manhunt 2' was released in 2007. It met with some very mixed opinions from fans and critics alike.
For those with no fear factor, this is the game for you. For the squeamish, stay well clear.
The whole thing takes place in the desolate, run-down area of Carcer City, where a female news anchor is investigating into the case of the execution of James Earl Cash, a death row prisoner who is sentenced to execution via a lethal injection, which actually turns out to be a sedative, as James finds out when he regains consciousness and is instructed by a sinister voice coming from an earpiece which has been lodged into his ear to carry out a mission. The voice turns out to be Lionel Starkweather ( or 'The Director' as he calls himself ), a corrupt Los Santos filmmaker who the news-lady is attempting to dig up dirt upon.
Starkweather promises Cash his freedom, but only upon completion of his mission. He must commit murder against a number of violent criminal gangs such as The Hoods, The Skinz, The Wardogs, The Smileys and The Cerberus to name but several. Other villains include the psychotic Ramirez and the hideously deformed Piggsy.
Cash is seen to be fighting in a number of places, even in a mental asylum of all places. Each and every murder he commits is more gruesome than the last. Starkweather's comeuppance when it finally comes is greatly satisfying.
I think by now you have managed to sum things up pretty well. Made by Rockstar North, the same lot behind the 'Grand Theft Auto' games, 'Manhunt' is a little forgotten gem of a game. Granted it may not be for everyone but then not everyone likes the same thing. The killing scenes are immensely terrifying, especially the execution scenes ( which can be performed by any number of weapons ranging from plastic bags, baseball bats, crowbars etc ) which if performed properly can be extremely wince-inducing. Some of the dialogue in the game is hilarious, such as one of the guys in the lunatic asylum saying to himself: ''I recognise these footprints, they are from my shoes!''. Also funny is the gangs, whilst waiting to attack you, singing children's nursery rhymes to themselves such as 'One Potato, Two Potato' or 'B-I-N-G-O' ).
Despite the controversy stirred up by the game, the sequel, 'Manhunt 2' was released in 2007. It met with some very mixed opinions from fans and critics alike.
For those with no fear factor, this is the game for you. For the squeamish, stay well clear.
Amazing Violent Stealth Game From The Creators Of Grand Theft Auto!
gangstahippie6 July 2007
Rated M for Strong Brutal Graphic Violence,Language and Disturbing Content.
I have heard a lot about the game Manhunt.So when I got my Playstation 2.That was one of the games I wanted to play.So I eventually got it.I did not like the game at first.I thought it was very overrated.I found it a bit boring and the combat really sucked.But then I started playing it a bit more and I grew to love it! This is a great game that you may not like a first but it will grow on you.My only problem with this game is the combat.The combat is not very good.It is almost impossible to kill enemies with Melee Weapons.If you do kill them, most likely your health will be very low.You should not use melee combat.This is a stealth game.It is more fun to just hide in shadows, waiting for the enemy to come to you, wait until the enemy turns away, target them until the target turns white,yellow or red and voilà!, watch the very gruesome and violent cutscene of your character killing the enemy.This is what the game calls a "Stealth Kill".This game is very violent.One of the most violent games I have ever played.It is not very violent when you are just fighting but when you do a "stealth kill", it can get really gruesome.In the beginning of the game, you just have melee weapons like Baseball Bats,Glass Shards,Plastic Bags,Wire etc.However in the middle of the game, you and the enemies have guns and you can choose to "Stealth Kill" the enemies or just blow them away! This is the plot of the game.You are "James Earl Cash".A prisoner who was sentenced to death.However an underground "snuff film" director bribed the police and saved you in exchange for you to star in a series of the directors "Snuff Films".There are plenty of gangs trying to kill you in the movies and you must kill them all.The game is fairly violent and disturbing and not recommended for young children.However, I recommend this game if you can handle the violence and love stealth games.
I have heard a lot about the game Manhunt.So when I got my Playstation 2.That was one of the games I wanted to play.So I eventually got it.I did not like the game at first.I thought it was very overrated.I found it a bit boring and the combat really sucked.But then I started playing it a bit more and I grew to love it! This is a great game that you may not like a first but it will grow on you.My only problem with this game is the combat.The combat is not very good.It is almost impossible to kill enemies with Melee Weapons.If you do kill them, most likely your health will be very low.You should not use melee combat.This is a stealth game.It is more fun to just hide in shadows, waiting for the enemy to come to you, wait until the enemy turns away, target them until the target turns white,yellow or red and voilà!, watch the very gruesome and violent cutscene of your character killing the enemy.This is what the game calls a "Stealth Kill".This game is very violent.One of the most violent games I have ever played.It is not very violent when you are just fighting but when you do a "stealth kill", it can get really gruesome.In the beginning of the game, you just have melee weapons like Baseball Bats,Glass Shards,Plastic Bags,Wire etc.However in the middle of the game, you and the enemies have guns and you can choose to "Stealth Kill" the enemies or just blow them away! This is the plot of the game.You are "James Earl Cash".A prisoner who was sentenced to death.However an underground "snuff film" director bribed the police and saved you in exchange for you to star in a series of the directors "Snuff Films".There are plenty of gangs trying to kill you in the movies and you must kill them all.The game is fairly violent and disturbing and not recommended for young children.However, I recommend this game if you can handle the violence and love stealth games.
A overly criminalized game
almadriddy9 May 2022
Just because it's gory it doesn't mean the game is bad and encouraging violence Actually manhunt is quite the opposite instead of humiliating you for killing it asks you is this is what you enjoy?
Although its impossible but i wish from Rockstar to make a third manhunt and remember what people liked in manhunt.
Although its impossible but i wish from Rockstar to make a third manhunt and remember what people liked in manhunt.
A one of a kind
neilrowberry-2412417 May 2021
Best game ever. Has absolutely everything. Can be completed in 1000s of ways. Just the most ruthless, violent game ever. Manhunt 2 wasn't as good but still had some of the gameplay of the first one. Grand theft auto is the only thing that comes close.
Flawed but ok
Phantomoni26 July 2022
While the story is good and the violence is some of the best I've ever seen and the controversy is interesting the mechanics of the game are flawed the game itself kinda controls like ass but apart from that it was an ok ride.
My favourite dark game
beargod-487063 March 2023
Warning: Spoilers
I was 25 when I first encountered this game. First it is not appropriate for underage people, it is sadistic and violent. Rockstar has made a lot of games where you can kill people with several types of weapons, tools etc. But this and its successor are the only games in which your aim is simply murder your enemies. This game is incredibly dark, almost everyone is a brutal killer, an immoral criminal or a corrupt cop. Some things were highlighted in the previous reviews but some not. James Earl Cash is no superhero. This means that if you get into an open fight with more thugs you will almost certanly lose. Thats because you have to separate them, use stealth to kill them one by one. In this process the game / the director rewards you with stars / praise if you kill them the most gruesome way. And because the game is difficult on some points you will hate the thugs, so it is liberating to kill them. You can tell yourself that you have to murder just to survive, but it is also possible to sneak through the stages and only kill the bosses. However it is much more fun to stage a massacre. After Cash escapes you don't have any more praise from Starkweather and you and I think you don"t get stars and gifts but you will continue killing. At the end you do not get more or less than a bloody revenge. (Cash cuts the director into pieces).
As far as I remember some people have quit Rockstar about this game because they have deemed in gruesome and autotelic action. However the game is a masterpiece and very enjoyable.
As far as I remember some people have quit Rockstar about this game because they have deemed in gruesome and autotelic action. However the game is a masterpiece and very enjoyable.
Violence and gore taken to a new level
PlayerSS21 December 2003
There hasn't been a game this violent since the early Mortal Kombat games. Rockstar pushes the video game world even more with this gory game. You play as James Earl Cash. He is a prisoner who was thought to be killed at the beginning of the game. When really he just gets a huge dose of sedatives.
Cash wakes up to hear the voice of the "director". He is a mentor of sorts. He is out to make a big snuff film with Cash as the main star. You set out in the streets of Carcer city.
While the premise of the game is very good and original the game has some flaws. The first few levels are short and they just get you established on how to off each gang member with a different weapon in a stylish violent way.
The controls feel very sluggish at times and could use more polishing. The first few levels are sort of boring at times also. Thats just my opinion. There is hardly any story here at all. Most of the time is just mindless violence with a large amount of blood and crude language.
The vast amount of lines each gang member has is amazing and its what Rockstar is becoming famous for. You will hardly ever hear a gang member say the same thing twice. If you are looking for a game with a huge story with a lot of depth to it. Then this is not the game for you. If you are offended by excessive extreme profane language this game is not for you.
If you are looking for a game that has extreme violence and not afraid to try something different then this game is for you.
Cash wakes up to hear the voice of the "director". He is a mentor of sorts. He is out to make a big snuff film with Cash as the main star. You set out in the streets of Carcer city.
While the premise of the game is very good and original the game has some flaws. The first few levels are short and they just get you established on how to off each gang member with a different weapon in a stylish violent way.
The controls feel very sluggish at times and could use more polishing. The first few levels are sort of boring at times also. Thats just my opinion. There is hardly any story here at all. Most of the time is just mindless violence with a large amount of blood and crude language.
The vast amount of lines each gang member has is amazing and its what Rockstar is becoming famous for. You will hardly ever hear a gang member say the same thing twice. If you are looking for a game with a huge story with a lot of depth to it. Then this is not the game for you. If you are offended by excessive extreme profane language this game is not for you.
If you are looking for a game that has extreme violence and not afraid to try something different then this game is for you.
Goretastic
lilian191 March 2004
One word can be used to describe this game,....WOW. From the word go you are thrown into a dark, depressing and lonely Carcer City. Taking on the role of convicted killer James Earl Cash you are thrust into the middle of a snuff movie with only the directors voice in your earpeice for company. From there on, the game gets more psychollogically disturbing. Its kill or be killed and with each gruesome decapitation you begin to feel more and more comfortable with sneeking up behind people and driving a crowbar through their neck. eventually u will begin to enjoy the mindless killing that this game thrives on. there isnt an outstanding plot or anything that sets it apart. the only thing that may keep you coming back is the satisfaction you get from offing a hunter in one of several gruesome styles. anyway, it aint a game for the logical gamer, and it aint a game for those interested in shoot em ups but if u like insane violence and endless profanity mixed in with a touch of black humour courtesy of the director (voiced brilliantly by fellow scotsman Brian Cox) then there may be just enough here to keep you going until the predictable conclusion. It wont be most peoples cup of tea though and it will definately cause alot of controversy but its still gonna be a modern classic.
Brutal, Raw, Gritty & Gory! The Best!
vengeance2012 April 2023
Warning: Spoilers
I heard about this Game back in early 2018 via an Ad on Facebook for PS2 Games & noticed one user talking about this one & how controversial it was! Of course, me being the sort of person who is big on controversy & because this is a Rockstar Release (the same guys who brought us the GTA Franchise), I got this Ebay for a good price then started playing it! I was hooked from the word go!
The story for the Game follows Death-row inmate James Earl Cash, who was supposedly executed awakens to discover that prison officials were bribed to fake his death & deliver him into the clutches of a snuff film ring lead by controversial director Starkweather that wants to use him as his newest star in a series of snuff films! Will James Earl Cash survive the night!?
I found the Game to be epic! Nearly 20 Years on from its release, it still is an epic Game! It's a hidden gem of a Game because I never heard about until nearly 15 years on from its release & wish I'd played it sooner!
The story-line, while simple & the game play, a little repetitive, is ace & the effects which a little grainy are good along with the gore, horror & dark tone which all play a role in making this Game one of the greatest ever made!
The music is pretty good & suits the game to a T & is reminiscent of John Carpenter for the Halloween Films! The graphic nature of the Game makes it ace & the tension when playing the Game when sneaking up & executing enemies is also good & makes you pretty immersed into the experience, that it feels you are actually there in the Game!
Overall, it's an epic Game which seems a little forgotten, which is a shame given that its epic, ace & pretty intense! The gore, the music, the graphic nature & suspenseful game play are what make this one of the greatest Horror Stealth Game Experiences ever made!
10/10.
The story for the Game follows Death-row inmate James Earl Cash, who was supposedly executed awakens to discover that prison officials were bribed to fake his death & deliver him into the clutches of a snuff film ring lead by controversial director Starkweather that wants to use him as his newest star in a series of snuff films! Will James Earl Cash survive the night!?
I found the Game to be epic! Nearly 20 Years on from its release, it still is an epic Game! It's a hidden gem of a Game because I never heard about until nearly 15 years on from its release & wish I'd played it sooner!
The story-line, while simple & the game play, a little repetitive, is ace & the effects which a little grainy are good along with the gore, horror & dark tone which all play a role in making this Game one of the greatest ever made!
The music is pretty good & suits the game to a T & is reminiscent of John Carpenter for the Halloween Films! The graphic nature of the Game makes it ace & the tension when playing the Game when sneaking up & executing enemies is also good & makes you pretty immersed into the experience, that it feels you are actually there in the Game!
Overall, it's an epic Game which seems a little forgotten, which is a shame given that its epic, ace & pretty intense! The gore, the music, the graphic nature & suspenseful game play are what make this one of the greatest Horror Stealth Game Experiences ever made!
10/10.
A Pair Of Socks...
ml012a486023 June 2006
***Tip: Have It Read To You, Heres How***
1) Copy And Paste This To Notepad (NOT WORD) 2) Go To. START>ALL PROGRAMS>ACCESSORIES>ACCESSABILTY>NARRATOR
Have you ever woke up on Christmas day when you was young and seen a present that was so nicely wrapped, with the best looking paper that you just couldn't wait to open it, then when you do you find that all you got was socks? This was what Manhunt was like for me. I seen it in the shop and thought "Wow, that looks like a game aimed a cult movie fans, with a feel of films like 'Man Hunter' or 'The Warriors'" and to be fair I don't think I was TO stupid for thinking this, mainly down to the fact Man Hunter star Brian Cox was providing the voice of a sadistic director.
I didn't buy the game from day one for some reason, but I did intend to play it at some point. It was actually when I watch The Warriors on DVD with some mates that I decided to exchange an old game for this which was about £15 at the time, and in true cult style surrounded in controversy. Everything about this game looked so cool, from when it told me to set the screen to get the "BEST EXPERIENCE" and that it was set in a city at night. However once I got into the game I had in theory finish unwrapping the paper only to find that I had got some socks and underwear, and seeing as I exchanged for it I couldn't take it back. So it was a case of *Fake Smile* and "Thanks For This Wonderful Present, Its What I Always Wanted".
To me it feels like Rockstar realized that the game play was sluggish and rather than scrap the whole thing decided to do was singers do when they have a terrible song, make it so it gets band (Well Almost).
I could just see them in the offices now...
"Sir its about the game Manhunt" "Whats wrong with it" "Well, theenemies AI..." "Is that all" "No there's also the sluggish combat, poor graphics, repetitive game play, its boring and when you get into a fight you just end up taking turns hitting one another till someone drops, should we scrap it?" "No, I've got a better idea..."
Then after adding about 100 swear words and tons of gore we got Rockstars Manhunt.
To be honest I thought that the story was ace, the idea that you are being hunted by an entire city was awesome, it felt like I was going to play a video game based on 'The Running Man' but the game play just plain sucks. For one each level is just the same in that you kill everyone in an area and then move on to another, like all video games the enemies start of weak and then end up being Hard Ass's. This gets very boring when you realize there its a trick to killing everyone which is, hide in the shade, tap the wall and make the enemy come to you and then wait for him to turn away so you can make your move. Another thing that ticks me off about the game is how little verity there is, its feel like it is one plate of peas trying to feed 100 people.
The enemies AI is like that of a SNES game, but maybe even a little worse. For example if you get seen and then subsequently chased all you need to do is hide in the shade, you don't even need to worry about them if they see you go in there as they will just wait for a few seconds and then say "Well, I guess that it was nothing" HOW CAN IT BE NOTHING, I WAS JUST 5 SECONDS BEFORE PUNCHING YOU IN THE FACE!!! At least in Super Mario the enemy knew to walk back and forward, they even frightened me more.
I did like that the game have great voice acting from Brian Cox, who was not only menacing but also side-splitting funny in parts. Like when a member of Cash's (the guy you play as) family gets shot in the head, you hear
"Ow no, thats just to bad"
OK when read it might seem lame, but its not so much what he says its how he says it.
In conclusion I can't think why any cult fan would what to buy this when the awesome Warriors video game is out there, maybe for about £5 its worth it to hear the genius of Mr. Cox, the saving grace in this pair of socks.
1) Copy And Paste This To Notepad (NOT WORD) 2) Go To. START>ALL PROGRAMS>ACCESSORIES>ACCESSABILTY>NARRATOR
Have you ever woke up on Christmas day when you was young and seen a present that was so nicely wrapped, with the best looking paper that you just couldn't wait to open it, then when you do you find that all you got was socks? This was what Manhunt was like for me. I seen it in the shop and thought "Wow, that looks like a game aimed a cult movie fans, with a feel of films like 'Man Hunter' or 'The Warriors'" and to be fair I don't think I was TO stupid for thinking this, mainly down to the fact Man Hunter star Brian Cox was providing the voice of a sadistic director.
I didn't buy the game from day one for some reason, but I did intend to play it at some point. It was actually when I watch The Warriors on DVD with some mates that I decided to exchange an old game for this which was about £15 at the time, and in true cult style surrounded in controversy. Everything about this game looked so cool, from when it told me to set the screen to get the "BEST EXPERIENCE" and that it was set in a city at night. However once I got into the game I had in theory finish unwrapping the paper only to find that I had got some socks and underwear, and seeing as I exchanged for it I couldn't take it back. So it was a case of *Fake Smile* and "Thanks For This Wonderful Present, Its What I Always Wanted".
To me it feels like Rockstar realized that the game play was sluggish and rather than scrap the whole thing decided to do was singers do when they have a terrible song, make it so it gets band (Well Almost).
I could just see them in the offices now...
"Sir its about the game Manhunt" "Whats wrong with it" "Well, theenemies AI..." "Is that all" "No there's also the sluggish combat, poor graphics, repetitive game play, its boring and when you get into a fight you just end up taking turns hitting one another till someone drops, should we scrap it?" "No, I've got a better idea..."
Then after adding about 100 swear words and tons of gore we got Rockstars Manhunt.
To be honest I thought that the story was ace, the idea that you are being hunted by an entire city was awesome, it felt like I was going to play a video game based on 'The Running Man' but the game play just plain sucks. For one each level is just the same in that you kill everyone in an area and then move on to another, like all video games the enemies start of weak and then end up being Hard Ass's. This gets very boring when you realize there its a trick to killing everyone which is, hide in the shade, tap the wall and make the enemy come to you and then wait for him to turn away so you can make your move. Another thing that ticks me off about the game is how little verity there is, its feel like it is one plate of peas trying to feed 100 people.
The enemies AI is like that of a SNES game, but maybe even a little worse. For example if you get seen and then subsequently chased all you need to do is hide in the shade, you don't even need to worry about them if they see you go in there as they will just wait for a few seconds and then say "Well, I guess that it was nothing" HOW CAN IT BE NOTHING, I WAS JUST 5 SECONDS BEFORE PUNCHING YOU IN THE FACE!!! At least in Super Mario the enemy knew to walk back and forward, they even frightened me more.
I did like that the game have great voice acting from Brian Cox, who was not only menacing but also side-splitting funny in parts. Like when a member of Cash's (the guy you play as) family gets shot in the head, you hear
"Ow no, thats just to bad"
OK when read it might seem lame, but its not so much what he says its how he says it.
In conclusion I can't think why any cult fan would what to buy this when the awesome Warriors video game is out there, maybe for about £5 its worth it to hear the genius of Mr. Cox, the saving grace in this pair of socks.
Any game that enjoys its sadistic and brutal nature to the fullest will have a hard time topping "Manhunt"
retroguy025 September 2008
Warning: Spoilers
Publisher: Rockstar Games
Developer: Rockstar North
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Graphics: 8.5/10
Gameplay: 9/10
Sound: 9/10
Challenge: 9/10
Overall: 8.8/10
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
+ A very interesting story that renders the game a playable snuff film to some extent
+ Great dark atmosphere designed to evoke claustrophobia and paranoia
+ Great use of lighting and the 'dark spots' blend in neatly with their surroundings
+ Looks great artistically as well as technically (at least for the PS2)
+ Cleverly crafted minimalist soundtrack that sets just the right mood of eeriness
+ Great darkly humorous dialogue from nearly all the non-playable characters in the game
+ Nicely implemented, stealthy trial-and-error gameplay that requires brains
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Conclusion
Manhunt is a great game, both technically and creatively. The main aspect of Manhunt is, in simple terms, to kill. There are two ways of killing: visceral executions and shootouts. Shootouts don't really take off until half-way through the game, and are basically standard auto-aim shootouts with the stealth and gore factors tweaked up. In order to perform a successful execution, you have to silently stalk the prey for a while; the game provides many dark spots to facilitate the player for this purpose. Every item, except one, features three levels of executions, and dozens of items are featured in the game. An example of a Level 1 execution would be choking an enemy with a baseball bat (to death, of course). A Level 2 execution might feature severing an enemy's nuts by pulling a sickle between his legs. A Level 3 execution can involve stabbing an enemy in the back with a crowbar, then jamming it in the victim's skull and wiggling it around, and finally prying the head off from the neck bone. Each execution is presented in a very graphic manner and as a cut-scene, accentuated with a grainy filter and scan lines, as if being played off a dingy CCTV camera, for a great artistic effect. Blood-thirsty gamers or those looking for some degenerate thrills and ground-blazing style will find Manhunt a worthy game to own.
Developer: Rockstar North
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Graphics: 8.5/10
Gameplay: 9/10
Sound: 9/10
Challenge: 9/10
Overall: 8.8/10
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
+ A very interesting story that renders the game a playable snuff film to some extent
+ Great dark atmosphere designed to evoke claustrophobia and paranoia
+ Great use of lighting and the 'dark spots' blend in neatly with their surroundings
+ Looks great artistically as well as technically (at least for the PS2)
+ Cleverly crafted minimalist soundtrack that sets just the right mood of eeriness
+ Great darkly humorous dialogue from nearly all the non-playable characters in the game
+ Nicely implemented, stealthy trial-and-error gameplay that requires brains
- During certain levels, particularly shootouts, the difficulty feels unnecessarily tweaked
- HUD is quite minimal, and the "Hardcore" difficulty in the game features no HUD at all.
- I went unnoticed by the AI during some very obvious moments.
- Despite its sheer depth, the game is extremely linear and lacks repeat value
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Conclusion
Manhunt is a great game, both technically and creatively. The main aspect of Manhunt is, in simple terms, to kill. There are two ways of killing: visceral executions and shootouts. Shootouts don't really take off until half-way through the game, and are basically standard auto-aim shootouts with the stealth and gore factors tweaked up. In order to perform a successful execution, you have to silently stalk the prey for a while; the game provides many dark spots to facilitate the player for this purpose. Every item, except one, features three levels of executions, and dozens of items are featured in the game. An example of a Level 1 execution would be choking an enemy with a baseball bat (to death, of course). A Level 2 execution might feature severing an enemy's nuts by pulling a sickle between his legs. A Level 3 execution can involve stabbing an enemy in the back with a crowbar, then jamming it in the victim's skull and wiggling it around, and finally prying the head off from the neck bone. Each execution is presented in a very graphic manner and as a cut-scene, accentuated with a grainy filter and scan lines, as if being played off a dingy CCTV camera, for a great artistic effect. Blood-thirsty gamers or those looking for some degenerate thrills and ground-blazing style will find Manhunt a worthy game to own.
Very playable, very cool, very nasty
coolrex1622 January 2006
If you have any kind of built up anger from a day of hard work, just sit down, turn on your Playstation and put in Manhunt, the ultimate game to take your rage out on. With dozens of varied and very violent ways to execute exceptionally hate able characters this is a must for anyone with a sweet tooth for gore. Done in a cctv camera style, this is an original, addictive and challenging stealth game that in fact requires a lot of time and thought. The only drawback with it is the later levels where stealth kills are no longer the way to succeed; it's an array of fun but repetitive gunfights. But don't let me give you the wrong idea; this along with Max Payne and San Andreas is easily Rockstar's finest offering, well most violent anyway. Vicious, blood thirsty and good fun.
The Director
davidjamesdague16 January 2004
Not enough has been said about Brian Cox's contribution to this game. With their signature line of 'Grand Theft Auto' titles, Rockstar Games has brought a cinematic flair to gaming with character work provided by Hollywood favorites like Ray Liotta, Gary Busey, Lee Majors, and others. In Manhunt, Brian Cox voices the Director's taunts with a sadistic voracity that brings the world of the game to life. The Director is the star of the game, in this humble gamer's opinion.
I played through each and every level out of the hope to meet him at the end - whether or not this happens is for you to discover, or not. Having long been a fan of Cox's work (from Braveheart to 25th Hour), I enjoyed the commitment he brought to a character as unsavory as a man who wishes to capture death and violence as a piece of entertainment. While the story for this game is minimal by design, it is expertly driven by Cox and his prodding of the main character to get out there and perform for the cameras.
At one point, I left Cash hiding in the shadows while I left him to grab a glass of water. By the time I returned, the Director was shouting at me: "Put some F***ing effort into this!!!" Hats off to Rockstar for combining strong performance with programming that is smart enough to know when it should be delivered. This is a truly unique gaming experience that provides for an interaction with a voyueristic hound who barks in your every step along the way of the journey.
I played through each and every level out of the hope to meet him at the end - whether or not this happens is for you to discover, or not. Having long been a fan of Cox's work (from Braveheart to 25th Hour), I enjoyed the commitment he brought to a character as unsavory as a man who wishes to capture death and violence as a piece of entertainment. While the story for this game is minimal by design, it is expertly driven by Cox and his prodding of the main character to get out there and perform for the cameras.
At one point, I left Cash hiding in the shadows while I left him to grab a glass of water. By the time I returned, the Director was shouting at me: "Put some F***ing effort into this!!!" Hats off to Rockstar for combining strong performance with programming that is smart enough to know when it should be delivered. This is a truly unique gaming experience that provides for an interaction with a voyueristic hound who barks in your every step along the way of the journey.
Not a brilliant game, but you HAVE to play it just once!
Paloogin3 August 2004
This, to me, is a game that is built on one thing and one thing only - atmosphere. From the virtually music-less title screen to the uber-gritty game itself, the entire game is dedicated to setting you on edge. As a game, it isn't fantastic, it can get a little repetitive and really frigging difficult, but the tension that is there at all times takes any attention away from the gameplay and puts it onto how scared you can actually be of a video game. And to Rockstar's credit, they do it fantastically, by using all the dirty tactics you can think of:
SOUND: Heartbeat - BGM only when you're spotted - Brian Cox as the maniacal Director, always urging you to kill
GAMEPLAY: Poor visibility - A radar that still ensures you can turn a corner and be surprised by a friggin scary hunter - Having everyone else in the entire game's sole purpose being to kill you - The fact that if you are spotted, and they find you, and you get into a fight with more than one of them, you WILL die
Overall, a scary game? Yes. A tense game? Yes. A good game? There are many games that are a great deal better. But you should rent it out, if only to see how much sick enjoyment you'll get out of splattering the contents of someone's skull all over the wall using only a baseball bat. I think you'll be surprised.
6.5/10
SOUND: Heartbeat - BGM only when you're spotted - Brian Cox as the maniacal Director, always urging you to kill
GAMEPLAY: Poor visibility - A radar that still ensures you can turn a corner and be surprised by a friggin scary hunter - Having everyone else in the entire game's sole purpose being to kill you - The fact that if you are spotted, and they find you, and you get into a fight with more than one of them, you WILL die
Overall, a scary game? Yes. A tense game? Yes. A good game? There are many games that are a great deal better. But you should rent it out, if only to see how much sick enjoyment you'll get out of splattering the contents of someone's skull all over the wall using only a baseball bat. I think you'll be surprised.
6.5/10
Five Stars
mrsexyass23 February 2005
Fantastic, it is impossible to recommend this enough. Whatever amount you pay for this it will be worth every penny. A game that is just so worthy that you could easily go back to it again and again. When I first seen scenes of people getting heads carved off and people with mental problems running round with guns I was a little freaked out. Then I got over that initial shock and now I will never know how I could live without this in my collection. Anyone who wants a decent game to keep themselves going for a while should get this, unless, of course, your too scared. Not suitable for people of a nervous disposition, or those afraid of their own shadow.
There's no publicity like bad publicity
wellthatswhatithinkanyway11 August 2004
STAR RATING:*****Unmissable****Very Good***Okay**You Could Go Out For A Meal Instead*Avoid At All Costs
James Earl Cash (Stephen Wilfong) is a convicted killer who has just been sent to the execution chamber.However,he awakens to find himself in a cold,deserted room where a mysterious man over an intercom (Brian Cox-thought that voice sounded familiar!) gives him instructions to go out in the streets and kill gangs of marauding hoodlums terrorizing them.And,deciding to put his second chance to good use,he obeys...
The premise to the game is very similar (if not a direct rip-off!) of Luc Besson's Nikita,when you come right down to it (only without such a sexy lead!!!)It's got a fair bit of bad publicity lately for it's attribution to the murder of a teenager by his best friend.Something I at first mistook for perverse curiosity but later found to be more genuine inquisitiveness (if not education!) tempted me to rent it.I've got to be honest,I can see how it might sway certain weak-minded individuals,as it has a storyline that is moreorless obsessed with bloody,violent death (even the rats explode into puddles of blood when you race over them!)You get points for the amounts of executions you make and Cox's goading,cackling voice-overs have a fairly ghastly,ghoulish quality to them,in the light of things.As though that weren't bad enough,you see hoodlums begging for mercy as they cower on the floor after you've beaten them,and you can only progress further after you've slashed,walloped or,most sickeningly and disturbingly of all,punched and kicked them to death (even though you could have had mercy on them!)
That said,of all the games I've rented out and played recently,it's certainly the most easy to play.Over the first two days I had it,I had trouble getting past the two hoodlums directly outside the shopping mall,but when I eventually managed to defeat them,I really felt myself progressing.Unfortunately,I had to take it back that day (today!) and,well,maybe I'll get to play it again sometime...
I think it would be wrong to ban every single person from playing it and other games like it on the basis of a few bad apples,but if you are able to just see it for what it is,actually,I suppose it's enjoyable enough.**
James Earl Cash (Stephen Wilfong) is a convicted killer who has just been sent to the execution chamber.However,he awakens to find himself in a cold,deserted room where a mysterious man over an intercom (Brian Cox-thought that voice sounded familiar!) gives him instructions to go out in the streets and kill gangs of marauding hoodlums terrorizing them.And,deciding to put his second chance to good use,he obeys...
The premise to the game is very similar (if not a direct rip-off!) of Luc Besson's Nikita,when you come right down to it (only without such a sexy lead!!!)It's got a fair bit of bad publicity lately for it's attribution to the murder of a teenager by his best friend.Something I at first mistook for perverse curiosity but later found to be more genuine inquisitiveness (if not education!) tempted me to rent it.I've got to be honest,I can see how it might sway certain weak-minded individuals,as it has a storyline that is moreorless obsessed with bloody,violent death (even the rats explode into puddles of blood when you race over them!)You get points for the amounts of executions you make and Cox's goading,cackling voice-overs have a fairly ghastly,ghoulish quality to them,in the light of things.As though that weren't bad enough,you see hoodlums begging for mercy as they cower on the floor after you've beaten them,and you can only progress further after you've slashed,walloped or,most sickeningly and disturbingly of all,punched and kicked them to death (even though you could have had mercy on them!)
That said,of all the games I've rented out and played recently,it's certainly the most easy to play.Over the first two days I had it,I had trouble getting past the two hoodlums directly outside the shopping mall,but when I eventually managed to defeat them,I really felt myself progressing.Unfortunately,I had to take it back that day (today!) and,well,maybe I'll get to play it again sometime...
I think it would be wrong to ban every single person from playing it and other games like it on the basis of a few bad apples,but if you are able to just see it for what it is,actually,I suppose it's enjoyable enough.**
You'll love it if you have the stomach for it.
SephJunior4 December 2003
The PREMISE of this game is enough to give you the shivers: you're woken up from an alleged execution and dropped into a live snuff film/game/play, with you on one side and several gangs - each with different call-signs, mannerisms and personalities - on the other side, hell-bent on bringing you down. It may SEEM that cliched, but the difference is in the presentation:
This is one sick puppy. As the voice of The Director commands, your sole aim is to kill the people trying to find you. And not just kill, I mean **KILL**- there are 3 levels of kills you can make (quick, violent and gruesome), depending on how much time you have to execute them. And trust, me, gruesome means exactly that. Add a plethora of weapons (some unusual, most archetypal of a killer) and some (mostly) flawless camera-work, and it's quite a spectacle to see the work pay off. Just make sure you have a very strong stomach.
The villains in the game fit nicely under the "crazy, not stupid" tag- if anyone sees or hears you, they'll come running (and if they perceive the situation to be dangerous, they'll bring pals) and will stay alert for several minutes before they return to normal, if at all. You *can* hide in the shadows, but if you're seen doing so there's no point staying there.
Hand-to-hand combat is a bit of a pain to endure, which was probably made deliberate as the emphasis on your murderous journey is stealth.
All you have to help you besides the various weapons, painkillers and (on occasion) ammo are the shadows and a radar- but you can only tell where the goons are when they make noise themselves.
Unlike Rockstar North's hallmark series Grand Theft Auto, Manhunt has a linear storyline and play structure, but you can re-take any mission at any time. Your scores are rated in stars, and are scored out of style, speed and game difficulty- 5 being the best (and only available on the hardest level), and scoring at least 3 per level will net you some bonus artwork/concept artwork. Of course, that's not the ONLY thing you can unlock, but you'll have to see that for yourself.
The game music is in a class of its own- the sort of thing you'd find in 80's/90's horror movies. It's graded by what situation you're in, and seamlessly changes when you're close to the enemy.
The plot isn't labyrinthine (thankfully)- through most of the game The Director is there to help you through and make wisecracks when you screw up- helpful when you've got a trio of armed goons beating you into hell (!)
Sometimes being sneaky is not an option, so you will have to mix it with the enemy more regularly than you'd like. The game's armoury is impressive and realistic- depending on the gang you face you could take them on with anything from a piddly nail gun to an M16 assault rife. It would be cynically unfair to say that the game degenerates into a bullet-fest at points, because even in a shootout you will be hard-pressed to survive. And one point this game gleefully hammers home is that the aim, besides to kill, is to survive. And look good doing it.
There are some welcome plot twists at various points in the game, and though they don't appear to do that much to change the direction, it gives the player the proverbial light-at-the-end-of-the-tunnel... and also some worrying tasters of what will be.
Altogether Manhunt is a very sick, slick, demented, polished, violent yet eminently playable game. If you're going game shopping this Christmas, KEEP THIS ONE FOR YOURSELF.
This is one sick puppy. As the voice of The Director commands, your sole aim is to kill the people trying to find you. And not just kill, I mean **KILL**- there are 3 levels of kills you can make (quick, violent and gruesome), depending on how much time you have to execute them. And trust, me, gruesome means exactly that. Add a plethora of weapons (some unusual, most archetypal of a killer) and some (mostly) flawless camera-work, and it's quite a spectacle to see the work pay off. Just make sure you have a very strong stomach.
The villains in the game fit nicely under the "crazy, not stupid" tag- if anyone sees or hears you, they'll come running (and if they perceive the situation to be dangerous, they'll bring pals) and will stay alert for several minutes before they return to normal, if at all. You *can* hide in the shadows, but if you're seen doing so there's no point staying there.
Hand-to-hand combat is a bit of a pain to endure, which was probably made deliberate as the emphasis on your murderous journey is stealth.
All you have to help you besides the various weapons, painkillers and (on occasion) ammo are the shadows and a radar- but you can only tell where the goons are when they make noise themselves.
Unlike Rockstar North's hallmark series Grand Theft Auto, Manhunt has a linear storyline and play structure, but you can re-take any mission at any time. Your scores are rated in stars, and are scored out of style, speed and game difficulty- 5 being the best (and only available on the hardest level), and scoring at least 3 per level will net you some bonus artwork/concept artwork. Of course, that's not the ONLY thing you can unlock, but you'll have to see that for yourself.
The game music is in a class of its own- the sort of thing you'd find in 80's/90's horror movies. It's graded by what situation you're in, and seamlessly changes when you're close to the enemy.
The plot isn't labyrinthine (thankfully)- through most of the game The Director is there to help you through and make wisecracks when you screw up- helpful when you've got a trio of armed goons beating you into hell (!)
Sometimes being sneaky is not an option, so you will have to mix it with the enemy more regularly than you'd like. The game's armoury is impressive and realistic- depending on the gang you face you could take them on with anything from a piddly nail gun to an M16 assault rife. It would be cynically unfair to say that the game degenerates into a bullet-fest at points, because even in a shootout you will be hard-pressed to survive. And one point this game gleefully hammers home is that the aim, besides to kill, is to survive. And look good doing it.
There are some welcome plot twists at various points in the game, and though they don't appear to do that much to change the direction, it gives the player the proverbial light-at-the-end-of-the-tunnel... and also some worrying tasters of what will be.
Altogether Manhunt is a very sick, slick, demented, polished, violent yet eminently playable game. If you're going game shopping this Christmas, KEEP THIS ONE FOR YOURSELF.
Think The Warriors meets The Running Man
GilsonIV21 August 2023
Released in 2003, Manhunt remains a highly controversial video game that pushed the boundaries of the stealth-action genre. Developed by Rockstar Games, the creators of the renowned Grand Theft Auto series, Manhunt delivers a dark and brutal experience that leaves a lasting impression on players. While not for the faint of heart, this game is undoubtedly a unique and daring entry in gaming history.
Manhunt introduces players to James Earl Cash, a death row inmate who finds himself entangled in a twisted game orchestrated by a sadistic man called The Director. The game's premise revolves around Cash being forced to participate in a series of deadly snuff films, pitting him against deranged hunters who will stop at nothing to claim their gruesome victory. It's important to note that Manhunt contains mature content and graphic violence, and it is intended for a mature audience.
One of the standout aspects of Manhunt is its utterly intense and visceral gameplay. Players are required to master stealth and cunning as they navigate through gritty urban environments, avoiding detection and eliminating enemies with a wide array of unconventional weapons. The game emphasizes staying hidden, utilizing shadows and environmental distractions to take down foes strategically. The tension and adrenaline rush that come from successfully executing a stealth kill is unparalleled, making each encounter a heart-pounding experience.
The game's dark and atmospheric setting adds to its overall appeal. The decaying urban landscapes, dimly lit alleyways, and seedy locations create an oppressive and gritty atmosphere that perfectly complements the gameplay. The audio design, from the unsettling background music to the bone-chilling sound effects, further immerses players into the bleak world of Manhunt, enhancing the sense of danger and dread.
While Manhunt received criticism for its explicit violence and mature themes upon release, it's essential to acknowledge that it was designed to provoke strong emotions and challenge societal norms. The game pushes players to confront their own boundaries and question the morality of their actions within the context of the narrative. It's a game that aims to provoke thought and elicit a visceral response, and in that regard, it succeeds admirably.
From a technical standpoint, Manhunt may show its age in terms of graphics and controls by today's standards. However, its gritty art style and realistic character models still hold up reasonably well, maintaining a distinct visual identity. The voice acting in the game is also noteworthy, with compelling performances that bring the dark characters to life.
Manhunt is undeniably a game that polarizes opinions due to its controversial subject matter. It's not a game for everyone, and players should approach it cautiously and be willing to engage with its mature themes. However, for those seeking a unique and challenging experience that pushes the boundaries of the medium, Manhunt remains an essential and thought-provoking entry in the stealth-action genre.
In conclusion, Manhunt stands as a controversial game that leaves a lasting impact on players. Its gritty gameplay, dark atmosphere, and thought-provoking narrative make it a standout title in the gaming landscape. While it may not be suitable for all audiences, it remains an intriguing and daring experience for those willing to explore the darker side of interactive storytelling.
Manhunt introduces players to James Earl Cash, a death row inmate who finds himself entangled in a twisted game orchestrated by a sadistic man called The Director. The game's premise revolves around Cash being forced to participate in a series of deadly snuff films, pitting him against deranged hunters who will stop at nothing to claim their gruesome victory. It's important to note that Manhunt contains mature content and graphic violence, and it is intended for a mature audience.
One of the standout aspects of Manhunt is its utterly intense and visceral gameplay. Players are required to master stealth and cunning as they navigate through gritty urban environments, avoiding detection and eliminating enemies with a wide array of unconventional weapons. The game emphasizes staying hidden, utilizing shadows and environmental distractions to take down foes strategically. The tension and adrenaline rush that come from successfully executing a stealth kill is unparalleled, making each encounter a heart-pounding experience.
The game's dark and atmospheric setting adds to its overall appeal. The decaying urban landscapes, dimly lit alleyways, and seedy locations create an oppressive and gritty atmosphere that perfectly complements the gameplay. The audio design, from the unsettling background music to the bone-chilling sound effects, further immerses players into the bleak world of Manhunt, enhancing the sense of danger and dread.
While Manhunt received criticism for its explicit violence and mature themes upon release, it's essential to acknowledge that it was designed to provoke strong emotions and challenge societal norms. The game pushes players to confront their own boundaries and question the morality of their actions within the context of the narrative. It's a game that aims to provoke thought and elicit a visceral response, and in that regard, it succeeds admirably.
From a technical standpoint, Manhunt may show its age in terms of graphics and controls by today's standards. However, its gritty art style and realistic character models still hold up reasonably well, maintaining a distinct visual identity. The voice acting in the game is also noteworthy, with compelling performances that bring the dark characters to life.
Manhunt is undeniably a game that polarizes opinions due to its controversial subject matter. It's not a game for everyone, and players should approach it cautiously and be willing to engage with its mature themes. However, for those seeking a unique and challenging experience that pushes the boundaries of the medium, Manhunt remains an essential and thought-provoking entry in the stealth-action genre.
In conclusion, Manhunt stands as a controversial game that leaves a lasting impact on players. Its gritty gameplay, dark atmosphere, and thought-provoking narrative make it a standout title in the gaming landscape. While it may not be suitable for all audiences, it remains an intriguing and daring experience for those willing to explore the darker side of interactive storytelling.
See also
Awards | FAQ | User Ratings | External Reviews | Metacritic Reviews
