August 27, 2009

If you've been playing video games as long as I have, chances are that you've heard of the classic House of the Dead series of games. Older versions used light guns that allowed you to kill zombies in a roller coaster-like shooting gallery. Think of it as Dunk Hunt with a 3D camera and gore.

The new exclusive Wii version, Overkill, allows you to experience the same gameplay on modern televisions. You'll be using the IR sensor bar in conjunction with the Wii remote.

What really sets this game apart from its precursors is the overall direction. The game takes cues from the movie Planet Terror and does it well. Expect B-movie intros for every level, hilarious profanity-filled dialog, and a soundtrack that will have you in stitches.

All of this would go to waste if the game weren't fun. Thankfully, the shooting mechanics are spot on. The levels may not be exciting as in previous House of the Dead games, but they still are pretty exciting. My favorite is a carnival complete with a spook ride in which you much shoot mutants as they are called in this game. The levels are especially fun when played cooperatively with a friend.

This game brings back memories of quarters long spent. In fact, the game even lets you spend coins in place of inserting money to continue. I don't see a reason why any hardcore Wii owner shouldn't own this fantastic foray into arcade-style gameplay. Remember to go for the headshot.