The game itself isn't very long, but because players will likely have to go through it a few times, Case Zero turns into a full two or three hour affair. Those looking to max out their stats, make every available weapon and earn all 200 achievement points will be able to extend the time well over three hours. Needless to say, if you're the kind of person who loves Dead Rising, then this five dollar purchase is a no-brainer. Mmm brains.
Unfortunately I had a few presentation issues while playing through the game multiple times. There are a number of texture problems associated with the backgrounds, especially as you get closer. I also found that most of the character animations are stiff and unrealistic. And while it's not a major sticking issue, it's odd how only a couple of characters have spoken dialog. The game seems to think that the supporting cast has voice acting, but I definitely didn't hear it.
I'm also not sold on the game's control, which are practically a carbon copy of the first game. When Chuck is just running around the city killing zombies the controls are fine, but things get frustrating when he has to fight the one boss battle in the game. He can't crouch, he can't sprint and there's no way to make him dodge/roll -- Chuck is woefully unprepared to do any one-on-one combat. I would like to believe that these are special moves he learns in the full Dead Rising 2, but I'm not holding my breath.
Case Zero is a delicious taste of what promises to be an incredible sequel. This download isn't trying to be more than what it is, a way for players to get used to the gameplay mechanics and learn a thing or two about the new protagonist. At five dollars, it's hard to find fault in this exciting (albeit brief) action game. Throw in the ability to export player progress to the full game next month, and Dead Rising 2: Case Zero is a bloody good time.
B+
It's not quite a full game or a demo, it's Dead Rising 2: Case Zero. No matter what you call it, Capcom's bite of Dead Rising 2 is a tasty one. With hours of gameplay, loads of weapons and a brand new city to explore, Case Zero is a no-brainer at five dollars. Mmm brains!
* The product in this article was sent to us by the developer/company for review.
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