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Story
Auto Destruct, released for the PlayStation in 1997, is a vehicular combat game that immerses players in a gripping narrative filled with revenge and high-stakes action. Set in a dystopian future, the game follows the story of a former race car driver named Sid Burn. After suffering a personal tragedy at the hands of a terrorist organization known as the British-American Liberation Front (BALF), Sid is recruited by the elite anti-terrorist group called the Anti-Terrorist Unit (ATU). His mission: to stop BALF from wreaking havoc and to bring the ruthless leader, known only as The Shepherd, to justice.
The story unfolds across various cities in North America and Europe, each with its own unique set of challenges and adversaries. As players progress through the game, they unravel a deeper conspiracy involving the BALF’s plans for global destruction. The narrative keeps players engaged with its mix of personal vendetta and larger-than-life stakes, driving the action forward with every mission.
Gameplay
Auto Destruct is renowned for its fast-paced and action-packed gameplay. The game combines elements of racing with vehicular combat, creating a unique experience that kept players on the edge of their seats. Here are some key aspects of the gameplay:
Mission-Based Structure
The game is structured around a series of missions that the player must complete to advance the storyline. Each mission presents a new challenge, such as destroying BALF vehicles, escorting VIPs, or racing against time to prevent catastrophic events. The variety of missions ensures that the gameplay remains fresh and exciting.
Vehicular Combat
At the core of Auto Destruct’s gameplay is its intense vehicular combat. Players are given access to a heavily armed vehicle, equipped with machine guns, missiles, and other destructive weapons. The combat is fluid and dynamic, requiring players to strategically manage their weapons and vehicle health to succeed in missions.
Upgrades and Customization
As players progress through the game, they have the opportunity to upgrade their vehicle with better weapons, armor, and performance enhancements. This customization adds a layer of strategy, allowing players to tailor their vehicles to suit their playstyle and mission requirements.
Exploration and Environment
The game features expansive environments across various international cities. Each location is meticulously designed, offering a mix of urban landscapes and open roads. Players are encouraged to explore these environments to find hidden power-ups, shortcuts, and strategic vantage points.
Graphics and Sound
Auto Destruct was released during a time when the PlayStation was pushing the boundaries of 3D graphics, and the game was no exception. The graphics were impressive for its time, with detailed car models, dynamic lighting, and realistic environments. The cities are rendered with attention to detail, capturing the essence of their real-world counterparts while maintaining a gritty, dystopian atmosphere.
The sound design of Auto Destruct complements its high-octane gameplay. The game features a pulse-pounding soundtrack that ramps up the tension during combat and chase sequences. The sound effects are equally well-crafted, with the roar of engines, the explosive impact of weapons, and the ambient noise of the city streets creating an immersive auditory experience. Voice acting in the game adds depth to the narrative, enhancing the storytelling with convincing performances.
Legacy and Reception
Upon its release, Auto Destruct received mixed reviews from critics and players alike. While some praised its innovative blend of racing and combat, others criticized its steep difficulty curve and sometimes repetitive mission structure. Despite these criticisms, the game has maintained a cult following over the years, revered by fans for its unique gameplay and engaging story.
In terms of legacy, Auto Destruct paved the way for future vehicular combat games by demonstrating the potential for combining narrative-driven missions with high-speed action. It influenced titles like Twisted Metal and Vigilante 8, which expanded upon its core mechanics and became staples of the genre.
Conclusion
Auto Destruct stands as a testament to the creativity and innovation of late 1990s video game design. Its compelling story, intense vehicular combat, and immersive environments captured the imaginations of players and left a lasting impact on the genre. While it may not have reached the commercial heights of its contemporaries, its legacy endures through the fond memories of those who embraced its unique blend of action and storytelling.
In summary, Auto Destruct is a classic that deserves recognition for its contributions to the world of video games. It remains an exciting and nostalgic experience for fans of the genre and continues to be a beloved title within the gaming community. Whether you’re revisiting it or discovering it for the first time, Auto Destruct offers a thrilling ride through a dystopian future filled with danger and intrigue.
