Wolfenstein: The Old Blood
Overview -
'Wolfenstein' is an ancient series, having started in 1981 for the Apple II computer. In the 90s it became an FPS franchise, which was rebooted with 2009’s 'Wolfenstein'. 'The Old Blood' is a stand-alone, two-part prequel to last year’s 'The New Order'.
Video Review
Visuals have been taken up a notch because we’re on eighth-gen only now, but just one notch. Still the game looks quite nice, with detailed textures and environments, especially the metal. The art design, a marriage of gray steampunk and World War II khaki, gives it a look that’s distinct from the sepia sand dunes and alien jungles of most of our modern, annually released shooters. The game has a strong frame rate and few problems on a visual or technical level.
Audio Review
'The Old Blood' takes a step back in its narrative from the more verbose 'New Order', with a lighter, more nimble, and arguably less satisfying story. There is naturally a shorter script and less voice acting because of this, although it remains at a high level of quality and production value. BJ in particular manages to go beyond his testosterone tank stereotype and show a bit of humanity, mostly in the form of his half-crazed mutterings. The rest of the game’s soundscape is similarly pleasing.
Final Thoughts
MachineGames hasn’t taken a huge step forward with 'Wolfenstein: The Old Blood,' but nor have they taken any steps backwards. It is a solid expansion, adding more to the new 'Wolfenstein' formula without drastically changing it. Fans of last year’s game will find a lot to like, as will FPS players who somehow missed it.