Skeleton Krew

Now here's an un-explored genre! Core comes through big time with a unique isometric gaming experience. Although I'm not a big fan of the European stuff, I have to make an exception when it comes to Core's Skeleton Krew. This ain't James Pond! Mega detail, interesting characters and a very good soundtrack add joy to this adventure through the realm of the un-dead.

Skeleton Krew is a truly awesome game. It's difficult enough and interesting enough to keep you engaged for hours and it boasts innovative gameplay to boot. A step above the rest and a worthy "9".

Un shoot'em up classique, divertissant mais guère exceptionnel.Un shoot'em up classique, divertissant mais guère exceptionnel.

Skeleton Krew is a fast-paced, fun game. For gamers who thrived on the action in Soldiers of Fortune and Zombies Ate My Neighbor, Skeleton Krew is the fibula to their tibia. Skeleton Krew will keep you occupied for hours and you'll probably be bone-tired afterward.

I really like the 3-D perspective, but it takes some time to get used to. The levels and characters all look a bit too similar, but there is non-stop action. I suggest playing a two-player game for maximum effect.

Un shoot'em up classique, divertissant mais guère exceptionnel.

This is an interesting 3-D type of game. Initially I really didn't like the way you had to rotate and shoot the enemies, but the ability to lock you gun helped out a lot. Still, the perspective makes it frustrating at times, but it is part of dealing with a 3-D realm. The levels and enemies aren't all that colorful, but it is overshadowed by the two-player simultaneous shooting fest. It could have used a few more levels and enemies, however, it is an above-average game with a unique environment.

Like I said in the beginning; the game is pretty uncommon. I've never seen a copy in the wild, but it's regularly on eBay for about $5 to $10 before shipping, depending on condition. Odds are there are worse games that you're planning to spend that money on, so I'd recommend you pick this one up next time you're inclined. It's a smooth looker with good gameplay, and although it's not something you're not going to dream about for years to come, Skeleton Krew is a worthy game that might surprise you. Take off a few points if you don't like repetitive carnage and add a few more if you love Chaos Engine and other such games.

The monsters just regenerate over and over, which is really annoying in certain levels that require you to clear them all out before progressing. The shooting action gets old really quick. In most stages I discovered it was less painful to simply navigate the maze and avoid combat altogether. Another annoying aspect is bosses that take forever to die, and you can't tell if they're taking damage! I really can't find fault with the graphics. The stages are fairly generic, but the pseudo-3D characters are nicely animated, and it's fun to watch them explode. But it's just eye candy as far as I'm concerned. Even with the two-player simultaneous mode, this game doesn't have lasting play value.