Jak 3

When Naughty Dog presented Jak II, the world got a look at a meaner, nastier Jak.

In Jak 3, not much has changed – at least not in the attitude. Jak has been banished to the Wasteland, a desert area five times the size of Haven City. Vehicles will play more of a role in this title than in the previous, but there are a lot of surprises along the way.

It is a year after Jak and Daxter saved Haven City. Three factions are still fighting for control of the city and the memory of the city’s inhabitant has grown short. Instead of remembering that Jak actually saved them from Kor and the Metal Heads, the city is beginning to be distrustful of Jak and afraid of his dark powers. When a Metal Head surprise attack results in the destruction of the palace, Count Veger (the power of the city council) has Jak banished for life to the Wasteland.

The look at this title at the Electronic Entertainment Expo in Los Angeles was a quick one, but this title looks like it will be a highly successful follow in the franchise lineup.

This time around, players will get to play as Daxter. Jak has been exposed to the Light Eco so there is the Light Jak to balance against the Dark Jak.

The game is bright and lushly rendered, with solid animation. The soundtrack is right in line with the series. This is a highly reflexive title with a share of puzzles and challenges to keep players involved, and searching for the answers to Jak’s current woes.

Jak 3 will give first-time players to the Jak universe a great intro to the series, while keeping fans of the series continued enjoyment in this evolving storyline.

This title is slated for release around the holidays at the end of the year.

For All E3 2004 Previews