Could it be? Could we actually be getting another good movie to videogame adaptation? In an age where movie licensed games typically mean terribly rushed and poorly designed, I approached Avatar with skepticism. However after finally getting some time hands on with it, I have to say that I am genuinely impressed. It is clear that they have been working on this game for a while, and had direct access to the creative talent behind the movie, which looks to be one of the most amazing things ever put to film.
In a lot of ways the game looks and plays similarly to Lost Planet, however the game improves that formula in a number of ways. First, the game controls a whole lot better then Lost Planet did, and the setting is much more interesting. The entire ecosystem of this world appears to have been created, with much of it extremely dangerous. It certainly doesn’t hurt that the setting is extremely lush and beautiful as well, which is a big difference compared to the barren and visually boring world of Lost Planet.
The mission structure, the experience system, the character abilities, and upgrades add that much needed depth that Lost Planet was lacking. The presentation is also fantastic, with many of the games art assets lifted right out of the movie. Unfortunately I was not able to experience it in stereoscopic 3D (like the movie will be) due to not having the proper hardware, but what I have heard from those who have is that the effect is extremely well done. The main reason I am comparing it to Lost Planet is that others are certainly going to be doing the same. The games are extremely similar in a lot of ways, however from what I have played, I feel that Avatar plays a lot better. Although the one area that Lost Planet 2 has going for it is its pretty cool 4 player co-op. I only played that briefly, but what I did play was pretty cool. I have not seen any of the multiplayer for Avatar, but if that manages to be up to the same level of quality, Avatar: The Game will make a convincing argument for a purchase.