Gauntlet Legends is a 3-D update of the classic Gauntlet arcade series. Gauntlet was famous for its hordes of enemies and the fact that up to four players could play cooperatively. The move to 3-D means there are far fewer enemies to fight (they take up too much processing horsepower), although the visuals have taken a turn for the better. If you've seen this game in the arcade, you'll know exactly what to expect when it loads on your Dreamcast; the translation is practically perfect. Unfortunately, the game didn't contain cutting-edge graphics in its arcade incarnation--so, don't expect too much in this home translation. The sound also deserves special mention, because it's awful. Everything sounds like it was recorded underwater with a cheap microphone--some actions aren't accompanied by sound effects at all.

Gauntlet Legends' gameplay is all action, but the lack of special moves makes it extremely repetitive. Solo players will be bored almost immediately, but the fun factor increases considerably when other players join the game. Four players blasting everything on the screen at once and fighting over power-ups make for some intense moments. If you're looking for a fun single-player game with a fantasy setting, you'd be better off with something like Draconus: Cult of the Wyrm--for dorm-room fun and parties, however, Gauntlet Legends is a sure bet. --T. Byrl Baker

Pros:

• Multiplayer action is fast and furious
• An arcade-perfect conversion

• Horrible audio
• Single-player game is boring