Not as bad as everyone thinks: http://zoopy.com/q/2z0w The Avatar film has grossed crazy box office figures and has been turned into an instant classic. It's a high-tech, epic blockbuster (check out On Screen's film review) with an awesome universe to play with that potentially lends itself to an awesome game.
Welcome to Pandora: The vicious but beautiful brainchild of the mighty James Cameron. The Avatar game is a prequel to the film, setting up the events of what happens in the film. The only problem is I don't suggest you play this before you watch the film as the universe is taken presumption. What are these tall blue people? Why are you turning into one of them? On the other hand, watching the movie first gives the game new appeal as you feel you're contributing in some way to the events that you enjoyed so much in the film. You also have a better understanding of the universe and an appreciation for the Na'vi that can't really be gained by simply playing the game.
As far as movie tie-ins go, this is has to be one of the best renditions I've come across. You play Able Ryder, a dude whose genetic make up is beneficial to the making of a Na'vi Avatar. The story, although a prequel to the film, is retarded similar. Without giving too much away, you basically choose which side you want to fight as: Either human or Na'vi in a tumultuous moral dilemma. Oh and you die in. Just kidding
They really could've penned something a little more original though. The games features aren't outstanding by any means, but the length of the game is impressive. Being able to select between 2 campaigns essentially, each with a solid enough length, means you get 2 games in one. You get to take part in each race and discover their secrets and unravel the colourful world of Pandora.
With Forrest Gump AI, the brilliant world of Pandora quickly takes centre stage. You begin to feel as if you know the place and there's a sense of belonging and ownership of a world that you were once a passive watcher.
The animations on the whole, are impressive. Climbing into cars and riding those horsey things looks really good, but the rolling is outstanding. The motion blur rolling is so sweet in fact, all I wanted to do is roll around Pandora! I sincerely hope Army of Two has learnt a lesson on this frontier.
By now you're probably aware that the game has a 3D function that works with 3D TV's. So, to the 0.000000001% of people in South Africa who can afford a 3D, enjoy! It looks just fine on a standard HDTV. Pricks.
Useless features aside, Avatar is not a waste of time. This game is a pretty decent third person shooter that has a decent length and a great IP to boost. Only recommended for those who loved the films and where immersed by it's imagination will dig this title. For this reason I'm giving it a forgiving 7.0 / 10. Just a little side note to James Cameron: Spend a little more time and money on your games. They might go from Good to Exceptional.
