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Loved it!

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 3 / 3
Date: June 03, 2004
Author: Amazon User

I liked it so much I went through the single-player game twice. That's unusual for me. But then, I am a fan of the old movie. The game has single and multi-player modes. The single player mode has you play through a story line, kind of like if you were a character in a movie, with the levels being parts where you do your own thing, and with short video movies that come between each level, leading you to the next task you have to accomplish. The multiplayer mode has you playing in different arenas depending on whether you're playing light cycles, or disc fighting. You can play on a LAN or over the Internet. There is no multiplayer "storyline" mode though. If you want to "play through the story" you have to do it alone.

It has a good balance of action (fighting baddies), storyline, and puzzle-solving. From what I hear, it has some characteristics of role-playing games. If you've never played a role-playing game before, don't be intimidated by this. It's not a big deal in the game. It's role playing in the sense that you pick up upgrades or run across an "optimizer" device, and at certain points, you can upgrade your own capabilities, weapons, and armor. A hint is it's good to watch the trends that you see on the levels, as you go. Notice if some capability, weapon, or armor, would've been more helpful on the last level you were on, if it were more capable, and focus on upgrading that. As with other games where you have to strategize some, there are certain weapons and add-ons that are best against certain bad guys and situations.

The game allows you to wander around some, but not beyond certain boundaries. Some people don't like that because they feel like they're confined to where the game designers are leading them, and it doesn't allow as much creativity. I liked it because it kept me from getting lost. The game follows a linear storyline and you can't deviate from it, or go back a level (unless you saved along the way, in which case you can always load up a previous level, back to your save point). That reminds me. F5 (Quick Save) is your friend! Use it often.

The story goes that you're Jet, Alan's son. fCon, another company, is merging or buying Encom, after Encom went through some rough times. The fCon guys are not so friendly though, as Alan, and eventually Jet find out. It's more of a hostile takeover, in the literal sense. Jet gets beamed inside the computer by Ma3a, a friendly AI program Alan wrote. The point of the game is to make your way back out of the system, just like it was in the original Tron movie. What's different is there isn't a sense of alter-egos in the computer world, or an objective of "freeing the system". However, what's revealed in the short videos that break up each level was very interesting to me. Some good writing went into them. The music by the original Tron composer, Wendy Carlos, is great too.

The look of the levels and the feel of the storyline preserve the spirit of what I liked about the old movie, though it's been updated, of course. The design of the levels is pure eye candy! I couldn't help but just stop and look around at it. Almost every level looks beautiful. My favorite level is a part where Jet enters "the old mainframe". The design of the level, the colors used, the background music, all bring you back to the early 80s period of technology, and the old Tron universe. Those who have been around long enough will recognize it. They did a great job. A few of the levels have light cycles on them (yes, they really do exist in the game!), and you have to battle it out against computer-controlled opponents. A couple of the levels even have the old tanks on them! They look great!

One review I read (outside Amazon) criticized the ending as being "anticlimactic". I agree with that. It seems as though the creators got writer's block and just wanted to "wrap it up". I wasn't that impressed with that part. But the rest of the game? Great!

Some technical notes. You can run the game on a machine that matches the minimum requirements, but I would really recommend a machine that matches their recommended machine spec's on the box, if not better, and at least a mid-level video card with hardware 3D acceleration (something around $100-$150 as of this writing). Anything less and you're likely to be disappointed since the machine will be straining to accommodate the complexity of the levels, the 3D models, and the effects. The animation is likely to look jerky and playability will suffer.

Even though the game is really well made, it's not without a few blemishes. I actually had it crash on me a few times on the higher levels. Fortunately it crashed gracefully without a system lockup (it just took me back to the desktop), and I was able to just start it up again and reload from my last save point. A bit annoying, but it wasn't a big minus, IMO.

This game is a classic. I'm certainly going to keep it around. Now all Disney needs to do is to come out with the movie that was supposed to come out shortly after the game! Here's hoping.

Disc? Check. Light Cycle? Check. Best Game Ever? Er...

4 Rating: 4, Useful: 3 / 4
Date: April 27, 2004
Author: Amazon User

Before I begin my review, I must point out the sad fact that I, myself a computer geek, have never seen TRON (though all of that is about to change, for I am going to order a copy of the TRON DVD first thing after school tomorrow). But that doesn't mean I'm not familiar with the story. I mean, TRON has inspired many things around us (who here does NOT miss the People Mover from Disneyland's Tomorrow Land? Seriously!) And for those wishing to play TRON 2.0 but have never seen the movie, don't worry. The booklet includes a brief summary of the movie, so you can pick the story right up upon reading the events from the film.

With that said, let us begin. For a game like TRON 2.0, it's all just a question of "Where do I start?" First off, this game was developed by Monolith, who also developed one of my favorite FPS (first-person shooter) game series-- No One Lives Forever. And for those of you who've played NOLF (No One Lives Forever) and NOLF 2, you'll definitely see some similarities here. Example? Take a good look at Mercury. Isn't that Cate Archer from NOLF 1?!

What does this game have in common with NOLF 2? The RPG elements, as well as the controlling. The controlling is simple to pick up, and the RPG elements make the game easier. To defend my last statement, I've had a lot of trouble early in the game, but as I leveled up and gained more points, the game grew much easier.

Another similarity is the Jupiter engine. The graphics are absolutely stunning. My jaw dropped upon viewing the TRON universe firsthand. The TRON trademark neon-glow is everywhere in this game, and from the first time you make a move, you'll definitely feel like you're trapped in your own computer (except that if I were trapped in my own computer, I would definitely see some inappropriate material floating about. ;)).

The Light Cycle levels are simply delightful. It's very much like that classic game Snake, only this time on crack. Since I've always loved Snake, this was a real treat for me. Of course, there are people who have great trouble with the light cycle sequences, but there's an update from www.tron20.net that allows you to skip these levels (though that's just being a quitter in my opinion).

And now for the bad issues. Yet again with the question "Where do I start?" First off, the sound is rather buggy. I had to close my game and restart it to pick up some sound effects (this usually happens when there were way too many things going on). Speaking of sound, someone PLEASE teach Jet's voice actor how to act! At least the music was good. I also did not enjoy the micro-management Monolith seemed hell-bent on establishing. Sure, it's cool reading emails and such, but do we really have to do this every other minute? At least it's simple, otherwise this game would've been docked down another star.

Another low point is the weapons; they're mostly worthless. Apart from the LOL (my signature), I've only used my upgraded Disc. But the Disc itself is cool, so I can hardly complain. As far as multiplayer goes, I've never played it because I do not want to update my computer with huge files, so I've just uninstalled my game upon completing single-player.

Depending on what you do, TRON 2.0 can be a short game. Though that's a good thing, since the game becomes a tad bit repetitive not long before the game ends. And you should have a whopping good computer if you can even think about running this game (fortunately my computer is very high-end and never encountered a single lag).

Oh, and the next game I receive that forces you to repair your weapons and equipment almost every time you get hit by a virus is going straight to the trash. I thought this stupid time consuming fix-your-weapons gig was only present in that terrible Dark Cloud series, but it's here, too. Monolith and Buena Vista-- do NOT do this again.

This game has made me want to watch the 1982 film starring Jeff Bridges (who, sadly, is not in this game; which is a pity because he's one of my favorite actors), but TRON 2.0 certainly won't make us forget the NOLF series. If you've ever wanted to get inside your computer and run through one hell of a ride, this game is for you. But if a sequel of this game will be ever made (and there should be, given the fact that the game's ending is rushed, disappointing and abrupt), then Monolith should seriously iron out the gruesome bugs in this game. As the sorely missed computer voice from the equally sorely missed People Mover once said, "NEXT TIME YOU MAY NOT FAIR SO WELL".

Thoroughly Modern Retro

4 Rating: 4, Useful: 3 / 4
Date: January 31, 2005
Author: Amazon User

"Greetings, Program."

Remember those days, when the original movie "Tron" came out? It was like seeing your fantasy there on the screen, a computer user transported into the world of the computer, seeing what it's like to play games from the inside. Back then, it was a distant futuristic vision to think along these lines. These days, as games have become more and more realistic, that faraway vision has gotten ever closer. "Tron 2.0" is, in some ways, the realization of it: a video game in which you play someone (once again) trapped in the digital world, playing games.

In this sense, "Tron 2.0" completes the circle begun by the movie over 20 years ago. It also takes the concept of "Tron" and brings it into the modern world, incorporating technology and terminology we use today into the overall idea. The metaphor continues to work very well for the game, as your character's advancement is gained through build points and version upgrades, special abilities can be attained in the form of subroutines, which can be installed or disabled from your program memory, and healing is gained from patch routines. At some points in the game, you may have to defragment, disinfect, or port some of your subroutines using procedurals within your program. Some of the environments you'll be travelling through include a PDA, a laptop, the Net, a router, and of course the Game Grids.

Despite the updated framework, the original "Tron" is still clearly here. Your characters staple weapon is the Identity Disc, which can be upgraded and will be the weapon you have with you throughout the game. The look and feel of the game just screams "Tron" like nothing else, with the same clean lines and glowing environments that characterized the original film so perfectly. Recognizers, tanks, and Bits all make their appearances through the game. There are many references back to "Tron," both direct and indirect, as the story progresses. And we mustn't forget the lightcycles, which are incorporated into the single-player story, as well as being playable in standalone form both on- and off-line. Frankly, the lightcycles alone are worth the cost of the game...more on that shortly.

In terms of the technical stuff, "Tron 2.0" holds up quite well. The graphics are gorgeous. They meet and occasionally exceed the standard set by the film, and really allow the user to involve themselves in the story without interference. In one memorable level, one of the most vertiginous moments I've ever had in a game, the graphics go a long way to conveying the impression of height and distance and speed. The sound is excellent, particularly the effects and music, both of which work well throughout the game. The voice acting is excellent as well. The stability of the game is fairly good. I experienced a few sudden crashes in key moments on my Windows 2000 machine, but for the most part I didn't have problems.

The single-player story should sound fairly familiar. Jet Bradley, son of Alan Bradley from the original "Tron," is brought into the digital world and must find his way out. In doing so he discovers a conspiracy to not only take over his father's company and their sought-after digitizing software, but taking over computer networks all over the world. As you play through you'll learn more about Jet and what's happened to Alan since the events of the film, as well as uncovering more and more of the plans of your enemies. It leads up to an ending which was a bit unsatisfying to me. In this game, getting there is definitely most of the fun.

The multiplayer levels offer some good variety. You can participate in Disc Arena and Tournament play, which allows you to compete on some updated game grids using only your disc and your agility to defeat your opponents. There is also a Derez match, often called "deathmatch" levels for other games, in which you have a fuller arsenal to choose from and more room to fight in. And, of course, there's the lightcycle levels, which allow you to pit your skills on the lightcycle grids against other riders around the world. Now that I've finished the single-player game, I find myself spending a great deal of time racing other riders in my super ligthcycle, seeing who can run rings around who. It's completely addictive and I love it.

"Tron 2.0" is great fun. Perfect for those who saw the film in the eighties and have always wanted to re-live it from within, but also just a good game for any gamer. Fairly light, not easy but not too difficult, and playable by just about anyone. It has lots of replay value and should be enjoyed by kids of all ages. Drop yourself into the digital world for a while and give it shot.

"End of line."

Much better than expected

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 2 / 2
Date: January 06, 2004
Author: Amazon User

When I first heard about this game, I had absolutely no interest in it. I never really liked the original movie or game that much, and I saw this as yet another lame attempt by a company to recycle old intellectual property. Then, one of my coworkers ended up getting it, and after hearing some positive reviews about it, I decided to borrow it for the holidays and give it a spin. It ended up being one of the most enjoyable and original shooters I've played in a while.

I think the thing that sets this game apart is that the premise (that it's all taking place inside a computer) allowed the designers a lot of freedom when it came to creating levels and weapons. The levels for most other shooters are almost interchangeable, so the neon worlds of Tron were a nice change. And although some of the weapons resembled traditional weapons found in most shooters, there were enough original ones to make it interesting. The upgrade/skill mechanism is pure genius. I really liked being able to completely reconfigure my set of skills as needed, and to be able to upgrade the ones that I used the most. Also, I thought that the storyline was very well done, in particular the way they filled in details and backstory using email messages you find, and the voice acting was quite a bit better than usual.

The one thing I didn't really like was the light cycle sequences, mainly because they impose a complete change in gameplay style, but fortunately, they were brief and not terribly difficult.

If you like shooters, you'll most likely enjoy this game, and appreciate the originality of it.

Great game! plenty of variety! Well excuted on every level.

4 Rating: 4, Useful: 2 / 2
Date: April 20, 2004
Author: Amazon User

Truly immersive, I found myself wanting more even after playing it all the way to conclusion. It boasts all the great first person shooter elements: Featuring a great story line, atmosphere, graphics, music, sound and most importantly top notch game play.

It succeeds in capturing the verve and theme of the original 80's cult classic and, dare I say it, surpasses it.

The variety of multiplayer modes are also very well done.

a beautiful game, ultimately a little disappointing

4 Rating: 4, Useful: 2 / 2
Date: October 31, 2004
Author: Amazon User

Tron 2.0 is a beautiful game that starts out with so much promise of what could be.

Let me start with the good:
They have done a perfect job recreating the glow, and animation of the movie. The design is a dream come true. To be able to actually walk through Syd Mead's art in 3D is worth it alone.

The music for the most part is excellent. The voice acting is not bad.

The light cycle section is almost a complete game of its own and stunning.

So whats so bad about it? :
Its not really bad, its more of a let down. The first half of the game's plot builds in anticipation of finding the Tron Legacy Code, and finding Tron, which doesn't happen. I would say more, but I dont want to spoil it.

There are some truly amazing levels, which will fill you with awe, to be followed by a find the switch in the maze levels, although nice to look at seem like filler.

The the circular arena where you throw discs at the other players rings is in the practice mode, but you never get to seriously play off - later in the game.

You never get a chance to pilot the tanks. The only time you actually see tanks in on one level from a distance.

Same with the Recognizers, you see two flying by a building at one point, but its a tease. Never do they come attack you, nor do you get to fly them like in the movie.

Other things from the movie were also just left out, such as the guards with their menacing black stormtrooper helmets with their light sticks. Their newly redesigned guards just dont look as cool.

I could go on, I really could, but in the end I am being way to critical for what is was really a fun game, that played heavily off my nostalgia for the movie as well as my love for designer Syd Mead.

If you liked the original movie Tron, then you should buy this game. I just hope they come out with a Tron 3.0, and make it a more comprehensive game adding more elements from the film that I loved.

First person or third person

4 Rating: 4, Useful: 3 / 5
Date: February 02, 2004
Author: Amazon User

The most important issue for any computer gamer is whether the game is conducted through a first person or a third person perspective. I had to dig through four reviews and all the info given by the manufacturer to find out TRON is FIRST PERSON. Amazon should always ensure that this info is available up front.

Buy this one; it's worth it.

about time

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 2 / 3
Date: September 12, 2003
Author: Amazon User

This game rocks. Since I've bought it(just under a week) I've just about beaten it twice. So right off the bat the replay value is high. The better the graphics card the better this game will look. Glow is great looking. The engine is the same as No One lives Forever 2, so bad guy AI is interesting. Although there are plenty of weapons all i ever use is the Disc. The story line is good, although i didn't care for the voice actor of Jet, and Mercury wasn't as strongly developed of a character as it should have been. If there is a sequal to this sequal, then the ending is okay, otherwise it's a little too open ended. They waited forever to make a sequal to Tron and it was well worth the wait.

Excellent!

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 2 / 3
Date: November 02, 2003
Author: Amazon User

If you are considering to buy this game, then you should! If you like the overall premise of Tron, then you will like this game.

The graphics are outstanding (and better than the movie), and gameplay is great as well. I have yet to discover any gameplay moments that I didn't consider fair to the player. I thing gameplay is the biggest asset of this game. And then there is the humor and the story of course.

All in all, a great experience. The game looks great, plays great, and overall, flows well. Can't wait for an expansion...

It's beautiful and it's hard

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 2 / 3
Date: January 02, 2004
Author: Amazon User

Pros:
- Beautiful graphics. If you like the artwork in the Tron film, this game gives you the opportunity to visit the world. There is only 1 other game I have appreciated the abstract art in more than Tron, and that's the original MDK.
- It's educational in the sense of how disorienting such a virtual world really is. I found myself having a hard time figuring out what a door-way/exit was because all the natural affordances in the real world are gone. Ie there is no obvious door knob anywhere. I personally like games that give me new insight on things I take for granted everyday.
- Lightcycles- ok so the lightcycle game concept as a whole really isn't that much fun anyway so you can't blame the developers for this. All they did was write a very good implementation of the lightcycle simulation and let you drive in it. How many Tron fans have wanted to just be able to do that and were unsatisfied for the last 20years waiting for it? Now that it's finally been implemented in all its glory, we can all check it off in our checklist of geek lifetime to-dos.
- Throwing disks- again every tron fan wants to be able to throw and deflect disks. Now you can. I particularly like being able to deflect disks back at an enemy to kill them. This is like being a Jedi with a lightsaber. I only wish the Jedi Knight games would let you do this manually to give you the same satisfaction. In Jedi Knight all lasers are deflected automatically. I think being able to consciously deflect a laser bolt was the most satisfying part of Jedi Powerbattles for the Playstation. In Tron it's pretty satisfying to be able to deflect a rapid-fire of disks in quick succession and wipe out a bunch of enemies.
- The climactic moments are quite well done. I like the part where you are trying to escape a de-rezing beam.
- The upgrading of your systems is kind of like Jedi Knight.
You get points that you can direct towards health, energy, weapons efficiency, etc.. You also get subroutine upgrades that you have to install to use. Each level sets a memory budget below which you can use the routines, so you have to chose which ones you want online at any given level- you can of course swap-in and out subroutines as needed. This is like having all the force powers you can collect in Jedi Knight and then letting you chose a subset that you can use at any given time. I know some people hate this, but I think it makes the game more RPG-like.

Cons:
- I am playing it at the EASY level, and it is hard. I get killed alot. It doesn't help that the enemies have the ability right off to throw disks at an arc and home-in on you. You can arc the disk too but you're no way as good as the computer. Fortunately there are cheats you can turn on- like GOD.
- I don't like jumping puzzles. There are lots of jumping puzzles. Fortunately there aren't too many that cause you to fall to your death- there are enough cliffs in the environment to do that for you anyway :)
- The intro tutorial was a bit confusing with all the technobabble. But I was able to play the game without reading the manual.

Final comments:

I got this game on sale and so far it has been well worth the price I paid for it (the cost of 2.5 movie tickets.) So have I gotten at least 2.5 movies' worth (5 hours) of enjoyment from it? Yes.

Some hints for people who plan to buy the game:
1. Download the patches- not to fix bugs. I have found the game to be very stable. Download the patches to enable things that will make the game easier to play.
2. After you killed an enemy, and after you have absorbed their energy, they will sometimes leave a "permission" artefact. Make sure to grab that too. They are not absolutely necessary but are useful to disable the rezzing stations that can generate more bad guys. I don't think this was covered in the opening tutorial- but I found later in the manual.

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