Twisted Metal: Head-On
PSP
SCEE






The 'Twisted Metal series has always been a mainstay of the PlayStation catalogue with the four titles on the PS1 followed by 'TM: Black' and 'TM: Black Online' on the PS2. There's good reason for this unashamed sequel fest, not just that there's guaranteed money in rehashed IP, but because at its core, the vehicular combat mechanic creates some incredibly fun and solid gameplay. This doesn't mean that all the 'Twisted Metal' games have been spot on: there's definitely been some misses among the hits. But thankfully, 'Twisted Metal''s first adventure into the world of PSP has proved to be a successful one.

For those not familiar with the series, it is car combat gameplay which actually feels more like a first-person shooter than it does a driving game. You may be driving, but the name of the game here is blowing stuff up and wiping out enemies, not racing. For those familiar, the single player modes of '...Head-On' are nearly identical to previous 'Twisted Metal's. The main focus is story mode, which essentially drops players into a series of different arenas to battle it out in a free-for-all killing spree. '...Head-On' features a new upgrade system that rewards aggressive killing with collectible upgrades which can increase special attack power, boost jumps, and improve armour.

There's more than 15 different vehicles to choose from (some are unlockables), each with its own unique special attack and distinct handling, top speed, armour, and so on. As in previous 'Twisted Metal' games you are able to finish the story mode with each driver. Doing this will unlock numerous secret characters, by either completing the story mode, or by finding secrets buried within the levels. In the midst of combat, there are secret teleporters that initiate mini-game challenges. Completing these challenges will unlock added extras for the single and multiplayer modes.

For Multiplayer action, '...Head-On' supports ad-hoc mode for up to six players in the same vicinity, and an infrastructure mode which lets you tap into the Internet through a wireless access point to take on opponents around the globe. 'Twisted Metal' has always shined as a multiplayer game, and '...Head-On' is no exception. Deathmatch and team deathmatch modes are present in addition to some other variants, as well as the ability to tweak a session by editing game parameters.

Visually though, '...Head-On' is a tad disappointing: it doesn't come close to matching the quality of '...Black' with flat models and textures made even less attractive by the average lighting. However, the lack of eye candy can be (somewhat) excused by its high level of interactivity. All of the levels feature plenty of destructibility, with explodable walls and structures that reveal new areas.

Essentially, '...Head-On' is a solid game and fans of the series should be happy with this latest instalment, and if you like crazy vehicles and senseless destruction, it's definitely worth a look.

Todd Hutchinson