Iconic vehicular chaos in a game
Originally released in 1999, Twisted Metal™ 4 emerges from developer 989 Studios as the franchise’s bold, if uneven, attempt to outdo its predecessors. This action game spectacle thrusts players into a chaotic vehicular demolition derby among destructible arenas, wacky cars, and iconic characters.
Twisted Metal™ 4 is beloved for its marked improvement over previous games with its enhanced level design and interactivity. It has an engaging narrative and an iconic villain in Sweet Tooth, as he stages a coup to claim control of the wish-granting tournament throne and, in doing so, poses a thrilling challenge for players.
Mayhem with mixed mechanics
The core of Twisted Metal 4 remains the carnage-centric combat that defined the series. Vehicle battles are fueled by explosive pickups and special weapons like MIRVs and freeze bombs, while each stage features unique hazards ranging from crushers and traps to multi-level layouts like the claustrophobic Maze or the perilous Oil Rig. Additionally, the game introduces custom vehicle creation, letting players tweak body types and weapons.
The narrative takes an intriguing turn: Sweet Tooth dethrones Calypso and assumes power over the destructive tournament, wielding a soul-consuming ring to grant twisted wishes. This dramatic shift adds thematic depth but doesn’t fundamentally change gameplay. The roster grows to 13 characters, introducing the odd novelty of musician Rob Zombie as a playable racer. However, the handling remains clunky along with the overall physics and its interaction.
On the visual front, this chaotic game steps forward from its predecessor, offering slightly sharper environments and more expressive vehicle models. Still, players pointed out that it doesn't quite match the polish of rival titles like Vigilante 8: Second Offense. The soundtrack, featuring Rob Zombie remixes and hip-hop tracks, adds character, though opinions vary; some find it fittingly chaotic while others feel it grows repetitive.
Chaos on wheels with lasting flair
Twisted Metal 4 delivers explosive vehicular combat with larger arenas, new weapons, and the novelty of custom vehicle creation, all wrapped in a darker narrative led by Sweet Tooth. While it improves over earlier entries with sharper visuals and an energetic soundtrack, clunky controls and uneven physics drag down the experience. Still, for fans of chaotic, destruction-driven gameplay, it remains a memorable if flawed entry in the long-running franchise.
