Midway's arcade game Gauntlet Legends is by far one of the most recognized videogames ever. To this day on the four player arcade game still racks in the dough, and it was no surprise that Midway would start releasing home conversions. The first home conversion arrived on the N64, and another was announced for Dreamcast but what about the PS? The PS version of Gauntlet Legends was expected to be released earlier but Midway wasn't happy with the result so they decided to go with a developer switch (Atari to Midway) and that delayed the game for about 4-5 months. Midway's house team had to restart from scratch, but was the delay and wait all worth it? Find out in the review.

      This may not be Midway's best visual conversion but it still is above average. Gauntlet compared to the N64 port needs a lot more polish, the characters are rough around the edges and the visual experience is just awkward. The graphics aren't bad it's just that they are much different than the Nintendo port. What I like about the visuals is that they pack sweet environments, every level you play has great looking surroundings that will make you awe. The CGs that are in Gauntlet are bit on the grainy side, and they can't compare to those found in Resident Evil 3 and Final Fantasy 7 & 8. Special effects are another thing that complement the game's graphics further, when you pull off a fire attack or any other power up you'll see some pretty cool effects. If it wasn't for the great environments and the pretty special effects, Gauntlet Legends would have received a much lower graphics score.

      Midway is known for pulling out great home conversions, they did it with NFL Blitz, NFL Blitz 2000 and Hydro Thunder. Now Gauntlet Legends can be added to the list of successful ones. At the beginning you are obliged to select one of four characters, Warrior, Valkyrie, Wizard, or Archer. Then you are thrown into a tower from which you can either ask for hints or start your very first stage. When playing a level you have to achieve certain goals such as finding Ostaliks, Runes or other secret objects. Battling takes plce in real-time and you can either launch your weapon by pressing X or you can automatically kill an enemy by coming up to it. GL has very addictive gameplay just like the arcade, the levels are very thorough and detailed but the game lacks four player capabilities. That actually surprises me and kind of convinces me that Midway rushed the game slightly, if they are able to make NFL Blitz 2000 play four players, why can't they make Gauntlet do the same as well.

      The title's graphical performance isn't through the roof at all, and it wouldn't be so hard to cut down on a few enemies and put in a character or two. Although it would seem strange, Midway could have at least made a three player mode. When you are done with playing Gauntlet you can also un-lock a few secret characters just thought you'd want to know. Also during gameplay you collect keys and coins for future or present use.

      GL may feel somewhat shallow because of its lacking multi-player mode, but the two player mode is great never the less.

      To be honest I like the sound, it is symphony with a little gothic mood to it. It really creates a very eerie atmosphere and it makes the gaming experience feel a lot more better. The voices could have had a little more detail and work put into them and the acting just passes the mark, luckily I enjoy the tunes so much. The sound isn't exactly identical to the arcade but it does surpass the Nintendo version.

      The control surprised me a bit. The analog feature is supported but better than I thought, there is actually sensitivity within the left stick. The dual shock is mysteriously missing, I haven't seen a feature in the that lets you turn the Dual Shock on. In general the control is very easy to pick up, nothing to master really, just pick up and go.

      Gauntlet Legends is a very worthy conversion by Midway, I am not disappointed much with this version of GL. The only thing I have to complain about is that there is no four or at least three player mode. Overall the game is a very pleasing experience and with much replay value it is even more pleasing. By all means pick up or at least rent Gauntlet Legends, it's a very fun title that takes me back to the good ol' days.

04/08/00  SolidSnake

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Graphics: 7.0
Gameplay: 8.0
Sound: 7.5
Control: 8.1
Replay Value: 8.5

Rating: 7.9