Ben-DutkaSlowly but surely, video games based on movies have been getting better. Therefore, we maintain an optimistic viewpoint for Sega’s Thor: God of Thunder , which is loosely based on the upcoming action film. Recognizable villains like Ulik, Ymir, and Surtur will be featured, along with a legion of evil hordes, all intent on destroying the hammer-wielding hero. That hammer has a name – pay respect! – and it’s Mjolnir; it not only packs a gigantic wallop, but it can also harness the elemental powers of lightning, thunder and wind. It sounds like a great concept for both the big screen and the world of interactive entertainment, and we’re looking forward to the size and scope of Sega’s compelling action extravaganza. New abilities and upgrades await Thor as he traverses what should be an intriguing environment.
Thor utilizes a standard third-person format, and the player will land a variety of blows and combos, ranging from the basic swipes to awe-inspiring skills that become over-the-top crazy with that elemental assistance. I just mentioned “size and scope;” that’s because we’ve heard many of Thor’s foes will be up to four times his size, and that includes 25-foot-tall Ice Trolls and other rampaging behemoths. The developers will also implement a grappling point system that will help you reach the heads of such monsters, and we’re hoping this pseudo-platforming mechanic turns out to be a welcome addition. You may have to unlock each of the elemental powers but once obtained, they’re easily selected with the directional pad, and we’ll even have the benefit of ranged attacking. Yeah, Thor tossing his hammer at something’s face. Nice.
You will be given every opportunity to enhance the protagonist’s effectiveness. The grappling points and heavy-hitting abilities aren’t the only major features: players will soon learn that many enemies – likely due to their size – will have weak spots, which you must find a way to exploit. I keep thinking they’re going to implement QTEs of some sort (can’t have an action game without them these days), and it’ll be interesting to see how the adventure will progress. In looking at the available media, you will undoubtedly notice the game’s hectic pace and interesting artistic style. Indeed, the atmosphere may be what separates this game from the rest of the action crowd, and I’m liking the exhibited gameplay diversity. Provided the control is reliable and responsive, I’d say we’re good to go.
One last piece of good news- the game doesn’t specifically follow the events of the film, which is usually a good idea. Marvel Comics writer Matt Fraction, who has worked on plenty of Thor comics in the past, has been acting as a consultant for the game’s original storyline. The plot will paint Thor’s adventures through many worlds in Norse mythology, and that’s probably what the fans desire. Personally, it’s the enemies and bosses that stand out, and the video features plenty of impressive gameplay, even if the visuals aren’t exactly overwhelming in terms of sheer detail and clarity. If the gameplay is fun, this could be a great bash-fest…have you played a game like this since God of War III ? Aren’t you feeling a little anxious for some straight-up slashing entertainment?
