NERF ARENA BLAST

Reviewed By: Rick Casteel
STAFF REVIEWER

GAME TECH INFO

Computer Platform: PC
Produced by: Hasbro Interactive
Price Range: $5-15
Learning curve time: 20 mins.
Age level: 10+
ESRB Rating: Teen
Patches / Upgrades: No
System Requirements: Win 9x, P233, 64 RAM, 275 MB HD, 3D Accel. Req.

Genre: Sci-Fi Shooter
Christian Rating: 4 of 5
   (slightly offensive)
Gameplay: 4 of 5
   (good)
Violence: 4 of 5
   (barely present)
Adult Content: 5 of 5
   (none)

One of my favorite activities is bargain bin diving at my local Best Buy and Wal-Mart for reduced prices on reasonably good computer games. The real catch is a rare thing but the occasional prize can be found. Nerf Arena Blast (NAB) is just such a prize.

I came across NAB for $5.00 at a local Wal-Mart. I had seen a demo some time ago and was impressed with its great graphics and non-violent presentation. The premise of the game is that the player is a participant in a futuristic tournament where teams of teens from all over the galaxy play in huge arenas for the title of Nerf champions. As the title suggests, the players use Nerf guns and ammo to shoot at one another as well as targets in the arenas to score points, not simply blow each other up. The strategy of the game encourages shooting at targets vs. players as they are typically worth more points, but you do have to compete for the targets by hitting opponents enough times to depete their energy suits. No blood, no gore but the same frantic fun action you find in your typical shooter.

Using the Unreal engine, the visuals in the game are great! There are a variety of levels and teams to compete against and several different styles of matches.

This is definitely one even the most demanding gamer could enjoy and not feel convicted about the content. Considering as Christians we are not to be “lukewarm” I offer this as a game I can recommend wholeheartedly!

Year of Release—1999

Positive—This is truly an amazing game. Anyone who likes FPSs will like this one. Though a bit, um, “immature” in arenas and characters, this is one of favorites. And there are patches, unlike what this review says, some are released by the game's makers, and some are unoffical levels and other things. Buy it now! My Ratings: [5/5]
—Mikee, age 14

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this Christian Spotlight review are those of the reviewer (both ratings and recommendations), and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Films for Christ or the Christian Answers Network.