But it isn't all doom and gloom for the itself is of the most frenetic and explosive kind, as the corrupt and shaken enemy guards come at you in droves. They seem quite intelligent too, the AI being quite crafty at times as the guards surround you, and, when finally beaten plead that they are unarmed before attempting to turn and shoot you. Devious. The weapons of combat are rather fun too, being well-balanced and detailed. All have useful secondary fire-modes, and it is through the likes of the Rocket launcher, that the player can experience Red Faction's most endearing quality. Geo-Mod. That's right, 'Geo-Mod'. This is technology built into the game that allows for more freedom of interaction with the environment. For example, the rocket launcher can blow huge craters in walls, destroy enemy bridges, take out guard towers and blow away rock to reveal new passages and rooms otherwise inaccessible. It is this realism and freedom which adds most to the atmosphere and action of the game, as one can never tire of blasting away rock and scenery. Not that its implementation is quite as cunning as the technology itself, and I was amazed that the full possibilities of this were not explored more deeply by the designers who could have staged a real coup over the competition. The potential of this innovative feature is not explored fully either, as with the single-player experience the level design simply does not take advantage of it enough. Opportunity missed.

The graphics next then. Well, the textures are sharp and detailed, and the environments rich in atmosphere thanks to appropriate use of light and fogging. The enemy guard forces are detailed too, as are the robots the game is littered with. The Geo-Mod technology, also allows for some stunning glass effects, as when fired upon it shatters very satisfyingly indeed. Explosions are rather cinematic too as they rumble, showering debris. The environments themselves are not quite up to the richness of Quake 3, or indeed Unreal Tournament, unfortunately. Though the vehicles are a nice if not life-altering addition, with the player being able to steal a sub, a ship, a driller, an ATV and an APC to various progressive-ends.

All of which leads us towards the end and a note of praise for the sound effects of the game, which, especially in the opening levels add brilliantly to the tension and atmosphere of the levels - as well as making the enemy guards more realistic. The multiplayer options are extensive, though standard, and the experience is a fast but decidedly un-revolutionary one. probably won't be setting the on-line world alight; merely tantalising it briefly.

So as we draw to the inevitable conclusion what can we surmise on Red Faction? Firstly, it's fun. A lot of fun in fact, though nothing too deep and nothing too innovative. The Geo-Mod technology will keep players amused for a time, though the plot is weaker than it should be and the underlying technology underused. Fans of the genre will no doubt find many hours of gameplay in it however, just don't expect this to be the 'next level'.

More of a one-man crusade than a revolution.

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By Luke Guttridge