24: The Game

If there's any reason I still own a PS2, it's because of 24: The Game. Taking place between Seasons 2 and 3 of the popular action drama series of the same name, I debated if it'd be better to play this post Season 2 or 3 for my sister, who is currently experiencing the series for the first time. Though it primarily works as an intended prequel (released during Season 5), I decided to play this immediately after finishing Season 2, seeing how it easily picks up the events post Season 2. It was also a great excuse to play the game for myself.

 Unfortunately, my sister was raised with brothers, including myself, therefore making her the kind of gamer to hog the controller for a good portion of the game. I was surprised that I actually had to fight for my turn.

Press Release for the game featuring Kiefer Sutherland.

 As fun as the game can be, ill-timed lags, "glitchy" graphics, over compressed sound effects, awkward controls, and poor A.I. sidetracked what could have been a rich video game experience. If you're a tamed gamer and a 24 fan otherwise, you should be able to venture through the game no problem. The only obstacles are otherwise the tedious driving missions, showcasing the worse police force in the history of police force, I might add.  If there's one factor to really appreciate about this game, it'd be the interrogation sequences, which were so well done.

30 Second TV Spot

 With all that said, the game should satisfy gamers that are fans of the show. It is a 24 medium that nailed the authenticity of the show. The voice cast features original actors from the show. Sean Callery, who composed for the Television Series, contributed a unique score for the game. The cutscenes are showcased as you would expect the camera crew films the series. Most importantly, the original writers were part of the story telling effort. Working closely with the studio developing the game, I was actually impressed with how they tied the events together between the said Seasons, resolving unanswered questions of how certain characters were introduced / affected in the Season 3 premiere.

Truth is, the scale of game's overall production is noteworthy - especially for a PS2 title, which I find visually appealing to this day - but poorly executed in many areas. This can be said especially for some of the voice acting. With the lack of good voice directing, not even the most talented actor can make their character sound convincingly real (I'm looking at you, Kiefer. Not your fault entirely ... ). Had this been developed as a triple-A video game title, this would have been a game to recommend beyond the 24 fans.

24: The Game - E3 Trailer