Review by: Rodney G. Desjarlais

GunGriffon is, in my opinion, the greatest action/mech game on the Saturn (or any other console). The graphics are beautiful (better than the recently released MechWarrior II), the sound and music are loud and atmospheric, and the gameplay is intense. GunGriffon is not a mech simulator like MechWarrior II, however, as it is faster and has a more fast paced arcade feel.

Graphics 9.8/10

The graphics in GunGriffon are phenomenal. All vehicles and mechs are brilliantly textured and animated (these are some of the best looking models for tanks and vehicles anywhere) and look almost real, even when they are up close. Compare the best mech model from Saturn or PSX MechWarrior II to any mech in GunGriffon, and you will see that there is no comparison. The terrains are also great, with many different terrains, obstacles, and hills (No flat, featureless terrains like MechWarrior II). All of the games weapons and explosions are also cool, and the way vehicles and mechs explode when destroyed will put a smile on your face. The machine gun effect is cool also, and you will not believe the FMV intro!

Sound: 9.5/10

The music and sound are also great, with loud explosions, good music, and even radio traffic ! The sound effects actually make you feel as though you are in a larger battle, and that you are not taking on the world by yourself. Hearing their screams is haunting, and brings on an atmosphere of chaos and urgency.

Playability: 9.5/10

When you first play GunGriffon, you will find the controls complex, and you may become frustrated. However, after you give the game a few more plays the controls become second nature quickly (they are not as complex as MechWarrior II). Other than the learning curve for the control, this game ROCKS! You are dumped into the middle of a large battle between two opposing forces, not just you against the world. Most of the missions have vehicles, mechs, and artillery that are on your side, and you can help them in their battles or do your own thing. Their help is somewhat limited, but you will find yourself thanking them here and there. The only minor gripe I have with the playability is your mechs tendency to "catch" on buildings, but its a very minor complaint.

Depth: 7.5/10

The only flaw in this exceptional game is its length. The game has only eight levels, and each level isn't exactly huge. While the game is short on levels, its difficulty extends its playability a great deal. The beginning levels are pretty easy, but they get steadily harder, and the later missions are a real pain. This is no beat it in an hour game, and as each level is a blast to play, the game has great replayability.

Overall: 9/10

This game is a blast (literally). It is fast paced, beautiful looking, and will give you a great rush of adrenaline. Even with the recent release of MechWarrior II, GunGriffon is still the king of action/mech games on the Saturn. Check it out, you will be glad you did.