Graphics problems (cntd.)

Animation wise, the movements of the scorpion and tarantula are eerily lifelike. There are some pretty vistas, but the game restricts you to a fairly linear path with quite a few invisible walls to keep you on the path they want you to take.

Sadly, the camera seems to have a hard time keeping up, often getting itself into positions that make it difficult to decipher where the enemies are located or where to go next. While you can re-align the camera behind yourself, a player controlled camera certainly would have cut down on some of the camera issues experienced during gameplay. These problems become even more apparent during sections of the game when travelling on walls and upside down are necessary to proceed.

Voice actors

Billy Bob Thornton and Dennis Hopper do a good job, even if they aren't the main focus of the game. In-game music is kept to the minimum, instead focusing on the clicks and buzzes of the creatures themselves. What’s there does do a good job in adding to the tension, as you never know when something is going to jump out from a crevice or from the ground below you.

Original concept badly executed

The game's biggest asset has to be its originality. Most action games tend to follow the fantasy/sci-fi baseline, but this game proves that an original concept can be done well. The levels are designed well, and the later levels especially impress, taking place in environments that allow a bit more creativity to show through, such as a gas station. They also feature some neat set pieces like an old abandoned car. Since the tarantula and scorpion can walk on walls and even upside down, some of the level designs can get pretty extravagant.

Sadly, the games biggest pit-fall is the same as another innovative game, Mirrors Edge. Both offer novel concepts, and the execution is pretty good, but the length of the game kills it. While it is priced at 49.99, five to six hours of gameplay just isn't going to cut it. While you can go back and collect grubs to unlock some concept art, there isn't really another reason to go back and play. There are three difficulty levels, with the five to six hours based around the normal difficulty.

Overall

Deadly Creatures certainly is an intriguing game. The concept of playing as a scorpion and tarantula is unique and, for the most part, plays well. While there are some things that keep you from being totally immersed in the game (such as invisible walls), the fact that the game only lasts six hours at most with no real reason to go back and play it over again definitely makes it hard to recommend. Still, the originality and execution does deserve some praise.