Controlling the super-hero
The control of Superman and his powers are for the most part extremely smooth. By pressing the ‘Y’ button Superman can be launched into the air or brought to the ground. As you zip around the bustling streets and through the narrow gaps between skyscrapers it feels as though you’re actually driving a car. As well as the boost button which speeds up the action, the responsive controls allow you to twist and weave around objects with few problems.
During any action sequences in the air, you can keep Superman totally still. He stands in the air, like he’s perched on an invisible platform, enabling you to use your targeting reticule to pick out an enemy or anything else that takes your fancy. The main issue that I experienced was the fact that targeting an enemy can be pain in the neck if they don’t keep still. I constantly had to move the target reticule left and right whilst hovering in order to take out some of the more tricky characters and my patience was tested on occasions as I inadvertently took out citizens who were dashing for cover. Mind you, if enemies stood completely still there wouldn't be much of a challenge.
Click for larger imageOne of the most impressive aspects of Superman Returns is the activity on the streets. It feels like a busy city with people going about their daily business and plenty of cars travelling up and down the streets. The whole environment is destructible, and if you get bored of being such a hero, you can zap innocent citizens, set fire to cars, freeze trees, or use your fists to dish out some punishment.
There is plenty in Superman Returns that makes me want to take a closer look. I enjoyed the varying objectives and the freedom to explore the city; even helping out those innocent folk always felt rewarding. While the graphics aren’t stunning, the feeling of being in a busy city has been achieved and the promise of more exciting missions is a definite hook. I didn’t have time to test out the x-ray vision or super hearing so I’m looking forward to seeing how they'll be used. I won’t be heading for the roof of the garden shed just yet and those pants will have to stay under lock and key for the time being, but I’m impressed enough to want to see more of Superman Returns when it arrives in November.
