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Story
Destroy All Humans! presents a satirical take on the classic 1950s alien invasion theme. Set against the backdrop of Cold War America, the game follows Cryptosporidium-137, a member of the Furon race. The Furons are an alien species on the brink of genetic collapse, and they have turned to Earth to harvest Furon DNA hidden within human brain stems. This DNA is crucial for the survival of their species, as it is the key to cloning more Furons.
The narrative kicks off with Crypto’s predecessor, Cryptosporidium-136, crashing on Earth after a failed reconnaissance mission. Crypto-137 is dispatched by his superior, the irritable Furon leader Orthopox-13, to both rescue 136 and gather as much DNA as possible. This mission quickly escalates into an all-out assault on humanity, filled with humorously exaggerated depictions of 1950s paranoia and conspiracy theories.
Throughout the game, players navigate a series of missions that involve everything from abducting cows to brainwashing humans, all while fending off the Men in Black-esque government agents and the military. The storyline cleverly parodies the cultural and political climate of the 1950s, providing a comedic yet insightful look into the era’s fears and curiosities.
Gameplay
Destroy All Humans! is an open-world action-adventure game that blends third-person combat with stealth and exploration elements. Players control Crypto as he embarks on his mission to harvest DNA and dominate the planet. The game’s mechanics are designed to provide a variety of ways to wreak havoc on humanity.
Weapons and Abilities
Crypto is equipped with a range of advanced alien weaponry and abilities. These include the Zap-O-Matic, which electrocutes humans; the Disintegrator Ray, which reduces enemies to ashes; and the Anal Probe, a weapon as amusing as it sounds. Crypto also possesses telekinetic abilities, allowing him to lift and throw objects or enemies with his mind.
Stealth and Disguise
Stealth plays a significant role in Destroy All Humans!. Crypto can use the Holobob ability to disguise himself as a human, effectively sneaking past guards or infiltrating restricted areas. This mechanic requires players to maintain a mental connection with nearby humans to avoid detection, adding an extra layer of strategy to the gameplay.
Exploration and Destruction
The game features several sandbox-style environments, each representing a different type of 1950s American setting, from rural farms to military bases and bustling cities. Players are encouraged to explore these areas, uncovering hidden collectibles and additional missions. Crypto’s flying saucer, equipped with a powerful death ray, allows players to unleash large-scale destruction, leveling buildings and battling military forces.
Graphics and Sound
Originally released in 2005, Destroy All Humans! was praised for its distinctive graphical style that captured the campy science fiction aesthetic of the 1950s. The character models, environments, and weapon effects all contribute to an immersive, colorful experience that echoes the era’s B-movie charm.
The game’s sound design complements its visual style, featuring a soundtrack that pays homage to classic sci-fi film scores. The voice acting is particularly noteworthy, with Crypto’s snarky one-liners and Orthopox’s exasperated instructions adding to the game’s comedic tone. The attention to detail in both the soundtrack and voice acting enhances the game’s satirical approach to storytelling.
Legacy and Reception
Upon its release, Destroy All Humans! received positive reviews for its entertaining gameplay and humorous take on the alien invasion genre. Critics and players alike appreciated its unique blend of action and comedy, which set it apart from other games of its time. The satirical storytelling and cultural references resonated with players, establishing the game as a cult classic.
The game’s success led to several sequels and spin-offs, further exploring the adventures of Crypto and the Furon race. In 2020, a full remake of Destroy All Humans! was released, bringing updated graphics and modernized mechanics to a new generation of players while retaining the charm and humor of the original. This remake was well-received, introducing the game to a broader audience and reaffirming its place in gaming history.
Conclusion
Destroy All Humans! stands out as a memorable and engaging experience that combines humor, action, and nostalgia in a unique package. Its clever parody of 1950s America, combined with entertaining gameplay and a distinctive art style, has ensured its enduring popularity. The game’s impact is evident in its lasting legacy, inspiring both a dedicated fan base and new players through its remakes and sequels. As an iconic entry in the action-adventure genre, Destroy All Humans! continues to capture the imagination of gamers, proving that the allure of alien invasions and satirical storytelling is timeless.
