Related Articles

Level design and graphical splendor are the most polished aspects of Evolva. The developers, Computer Artworks, deserve praise for inventing landscapes that are completely foreign, yet inviting and altogether beautiful. There are three continents to explore, each with a different theme and terrain type. The underlying physical attributes of the different terrain types are similar, but the skins laid over each setting are exquisitely detailed. Everything from the colorful plant life, to the indigenous creatures is elaborately rendered. Special visual effects are equally well done, with fantastic weapon discharges, blood splatters, and some of the best pyrotechnics I’ve ever seen. One of the most intriguing features of the rendering system is how the Genohunters change very dramatically from the beginning of the game to the end. Comprehensively, Evolva delivers eye-candy by the truckload.

Sound

Beautiful graphics are undoubtedly a nice feature, but good sound is also required to create a truly immersed atmosphere. Thankfully, the audio quality in Evolva is another A-plus feature. The soundtrack is a vibrant mix of groovy jungle-inspired tunes and techno-rhythms. My only critique is that there could have been a few more tracks, but overall, the music adds flavor and suspense when needed. The full, rich sound also extends to the various noises made by enemies, especially the arachnids who come at you like a pack of howling evilness. Weapons have terrific sound quality, and explosions are appropriately loud and thunderous. Interestingly, there is not a single spoken word in the game. Not even the mission briefings have narration, and Genohunters are almost completely mute with the exception of an occasional grunt. Nevertheless, you don't spend much time reviewing the mission briefings to warrant spoken dialogue, and the superior quality of the in-game sound makes the lack of narration forgivable.