24: The Game Preview

The show 24 on the Fox Network has been a popular staple in their prime time line up for several years now. Finally, someone has stepped up to the plate and is creating a game based on the successful TV show and its well-established characters. 24, created exclusively for the PS2, not only features the voice and likeness of many of the shows stars, including Kiefer Sutherland, Elisha Cuthbert and Dennis Haysbert, but also has a script written by the shows scribes.

The video game version of 24 takes place over a twenty four hour period, much like one season of the TV show. However, instead of being based on one season in particular, 24 takes place half way through the second season leading through halfway of the third season. The game will follow the show tremendously closely and will be focused around time, although not real time. The ticking digital clock from the TV show will be present, ticking with its ominous tings as you try to progress through the game’s storyline.

Instead of only being Jack Bauer (Kiefer Sutherland’s character) through the entire course of the game, you’ll have access to two other characters from the show. The other characters come in to play through events in the storyline, which will unveil in the same kind of multi panel window theme as the TV show.

Gameplaywise, 24 will be quite varied, while remaining true to the action as it unfolds on the show. Much of the game is a third-person action game, although there will be many driving and puzzle elements incorporated, as well.

Graphically, the game looks very good. Digital mapping was used for the characters to get the actual likenesses of the show’s actors.  The game will also be presented in the same widescreen format as the TV show, meaning that it will not only retain the feel of the show, but even the aspect ratio.

24 is shaping up quite nicely, and should be a no brainer for the TV show’s rabid cult following when it ships the October.
 

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