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Story

Criticom, released in 1995 for the PlayStation and Sega Saturn, is a 3D fighting game developed by Kronos Digital Entertainment and published by Vic Tokai. Set in a distant future, Criticom revolves around a cosmic tournament held on a mysterious planet known as the Necrull. The tournament is organized by a powerful entity called the Overlord, who seeks to find the most formidable warrior across the galaxy to serve a greater unknown purpose.

The storyline, while not the most intricate, provides a backdrop for the intense duels between eight unique characters. Each character hails from different parts of the universe, motivated by personal goals and driven by the promise of unimaginable power. Players can explore these motivations through the game’s limited but intriguing lore, which is revealed in snippets at the beginning and end of each character’s campaign. The character roster includes a variety of fighters, from the human-like Delara to the monstrous creatures such as Demonica and Yenji, each with a distinct background and reason for entering the tournament.

Gameplay

Criticom is primarily a 3D fighting game that attempts to innovate within the genre by introducing several unique mechanics. The game features a roster of eight fighters, each with a distinct fighting style and special moves. Unlike many of its contemporaries, Criticom allows for a full 3D movement, enabling players to sidestep and maneuver around opponents in a way that adds depth to the combat.

Combat Mechanics

Criticom’s combat system is built around a combination of basic attacks, special moves, and combo sequences. Each character has a variety of punches, kicks, and grapple maneuvers that form the core of the fighting experience. The game emphasizes strategic movement and positioning, encouraging players to make use of the 3D space to gain an advantage over their opponents.

A unique feature of Criticom is its “Power Bar,” which charges up as players land hits or take damage. Once filled, it allows characters to unleash powerful special moves that can turn the tide of battle. Mastering these moves is crucial to defeating tougher opponents, as they often have specific counters or vulnerabilities that can be exploited.

Character Variety

Each of the eight characters in Criticom comes with a unique set of skills and attributes, offering different strengths and weaknesses. This variety provides players with numerous playstyles to explore, whether they prefer the fast and agile attacks of Yenji or the brute strength of Gorm. However, the balance between characters can sometimes feel uneven, with certain fighters having distinct advantages that can overshadow others. Despite this, the diverse roster encourages experimentation and learning, rewarding players who invest time in mastering each character’s nuances.

Graphics and Sound

Criticom was released during a time when 3D graphics were still a novel concept in video games, and it stands as a testament to the era’s technological limitations and ambitions. The game features polygonal character models that, while not particularly detailed by today’s standards, were impressive for their time. The environments, set in various alien landscapes, provide vibrant backdrops that enhance the sci-fi atmosphere of the game.

Visual Style

The visual style of Criticom reflects the mid-90s aesthetic, with a focus on bold colors and exaggerated designs. Each character is distinctively designed to embody their alien origins, with costumes and features that highlight their backgrounds. While the graphics may appear dated now, they successfully convey the game’s otherworldly theme and contribute to a memorable visual experience.

Soundtrack and Audio Effects

The audio component of Criticom complements its visual identity with a soundtrack that blends electronic and orchestral elements to create a sense of grandeur and tension. The music changes dynamically during fights, intensifying as the battles reach their climax. Sound effects, including the impact of punches and the ambient noises of the arenas, add to the immersive experience, though they may lack the polish found in other titles of the period.

Legacy and Reception

Upon its release, Criticom received mixed reviews from critics and players alike. While some praised its ambition and the introduction of full 3D movement, others criticized its execution and balance issues. The game was often compared to other fighting titles of the time, such as Tekken and Virtua Fighter, and was seen as a less polished competitor.

Despite its criticisms, Criticom holds a niche place in the history of fighting games due to its early experimentation with 3D environments and character-driven narratives. It paved the way for future titles that would refine its concepts and deliver more cohesive experiences. Over the years, Criticom has garnered a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts who appreciate its unique take on the genre.

Conclusion

Criticom may not have achieved the same level of fame as some of its contemporaries, but it remains a noteworthy entry in the history of fighting games. Its attempt to blend narrative depth with innovative gameplay mechanics set it apart during a time of rapid technological evolution in the gaming industry. While it faced challenges in execution, its legacy lies in the ambition it displayed and the groundwork it laid for future 3D fighting games.

In retrospect, Criticom is an emblem of its era, capturing the spirit of experimentation that defined mid-90s video gaming. For those willing to overlook its imperfections, it offers a glimpse into the early days of 3D fighting games and serves as a reminder of the genre’s evolution.