Perfect Dark Zero Demo Impressions

The next demo I downloaded was Perfect Dark Zero. At launch, this was one of the most anticipated titles for the Xbox 360, but from what I understand it ultimately lost out as the top launch FPS to Call of Duty 2.

As for my impressions, the demo mission is halfway through one of the middle levels where you need to escort Johnathan to some Outpost. Being a demo it's not heavy on story so I don't know the exact reason why, but I got to kill things so its all good.

Basically, the game is mostly standard shooter fair. You can carry a limited number of weapons, two it looks like, and you can easily swap between them, zoom in if there's the option, etc. When you take cover against a wall or dive to avoid fire, the game switches to third person until you leave cover or land from your dodge, which is a cool little effect.

The game looks good with decent, though not spectacular, character models, and the level, its detail and lighting are all well done. I'm not sure what graphic engine Rare used, but it isn't bad at all.

Basically the demo level is very straight forward, you move through streets taking cover around the buildings, ambush enemy re-enforcements as they cross under a bridge (you basically get to play shooting gallery), shoot down some drop ships, and generally kill any other baddy in your way while protecting Jonathan. You also have a few other squad mates with you, but you can't give them any orders and the game's AI, both friendly and enemy, are not anything special.

When its all said and done, Perfect Dark Zero's demo was very general FPS, nothing bad, but nothing outstanding either. My interest has been perked enough where I might rent it, but it's nothing I want to rush out and buy.