Bionic Commando Preview

Judging from the trailers and screenshots issued by Capcom, Bionic Commando seems to feature solid visual quality and top-notch design. It's too early to say for sure and we still don't know what to expect in terms of the technology that powers the game. We did catch a quick glimpse of several aspects of early in-game physics, with interactive objects scattered throughout most of the level and Spencer using his arm to hurl huge debris at the enemy. Also, at one moment he attaches to a derelict monorail car that's hanging on platform overhead, but as he swings away, the car may slide and fall down. In some situations, using Spencer's arm - applying its facets to the in-game physics - could help you overcome many obstacles on the way. In fact, some areas are going to feature puzzles where the player has to push, pull or move objects in a certain way in order to progress further. Animation doesn't seem far behind either, as the main character gracefully runs, jumps and swings through the ruined metropolis. In that sense the development team certainly paid attention to a lot of details, such as Spencer's hair - his dreadlocks swaying in the wind, etc.

We were also rather pleased to see prospects of large-scale boss fights, again, analogous to Capcom's titles like Lost Planet. Fair enough, this is the first time Capcom is entrusting one of their franchises to GRIN and we hope the decision pays off. But, as we've learned, GRIN is being advised by Capcom's Japanese R&D division, which would certainly account for the obvious influence on the game's art and overall design.

That said, Bionic Commando looks to be more than just a tribute to the old game. From the elements revealed thus far, the game seems to feature plenty of content and solid gameplay mechanics. All that neatly packed in a visually pleasing environment.

We're keeping our eyes peeled for this one and we hope to bring you more info as soon as it becomes available.