Gungrave is a compelling action-packed video game that hooks players with its intense narrative and dynamic gameplay. Set in a dark and gritty urban landscape, this title blends third-person shooting elements with an intriguing storyline. Developed by Red Entertainment and published by Irem, Gungrave has gained a dedicated following since its initial release in 2002.
The game follows the protagonist, Beyond the Grave, on a relentless quest for vengeance in a world overrun by crime syndicates and supernatural forces. Players navigate through intricately designed levels, engaging in adrenaline-pumping battles against hordes of adversaries. What sets Gungrave apart is its striking mix of immersive storytelling, striking visuals, and a robust combat system.
This title has left a lasting impression on the gaming world, making it a must-experience and must-play for fans of intense action games and immersive stories.
Gungrave G.O.R.E Releases for Switch
Iggymob’s Gungrave G.O.R.E Ultimate Enhanced Edition, known as Gungrave Gore, has made its digital debut in Europe on October 4 for the Nintendo Switch, with a North American digital release slated for October 18. Japanese and Asian players can expect physical and digital versions in January 2024.
Early buyers within the first month will receive three exclusive limited skins. Originally scheduled for release in December 2019, the game faced delays, with its final launch in November 2022 across various platforms including PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.
Published under Koch Media’s Prime Matter label, Gungrave G.O.R.E was developed by Iggymob using Unreal Engine 4, aiming for higher quality and scale compared to its prequel, Gungrave VR.
The Gameplay
In Gungrave G.O.R.E, the resurgence of the once-eradicated drug, Seed, brings chaos as it transforms users into monstrous beings. Players take on the role of Beyond the Grave in this third-person shooter as he embarks on a mission to eliminate the Raven Clan, the distributor of this dangerous substance.
Armed with dual pistols and the ability to swing his coffin to dispatch nearby foes, players also have access to special skills like using enemies as human shields. Staying still grants extra damage, and continuous, uninterrupted combat unlocks additional attacks. Prior experience with the series is not required to play this game.
The Setting of Gungrave
In a city under the iron grip of the Millennion organization, lawlessness reigns, fueled by the sinister drug known as ‘seed.’ Our protagonist, Grave, embarks on a relentless quest for vengeance against his former friend and Millenion colleague, Harry Macdowell, the man who betrayed him.
Throughout the game, players traverse various stages, each presented as missions by Dr. T. These missions lead Grave on a pursuit to confront and eliminate the stage’s boss. From gritty bars to high-tech labs, subterranean subway tunnels, and even a traditional Japanese dojo perched atop a skyscraper, the game’s diverse settings add depth to the urban backdrop.
When you break it down, Gungrave G.O.R.E appears to be a missed opportunity. It boasts a solid combat system, but the lack of variety and repetitive enemy designs hold it back. The artistic direction, led by Yasuhiro Nightow and Ikumi Nakamura of Trigun fame, is visually stunning and exudes style, but the narrative within this captivating backdrop falls short of gripping.
The music and sound design impress, although the voice acting exhibits some inconsistency. While its potential is evident, Gungrave G.O.R.E falls short due to a series of missteps that prevent it from reaching its full promise.
However, someone’s trash can be another man’s gold. So, don’t let reviews or people’s opinions stop you from playing the game. Give it a try and you might just love it.
