Manhunt (Sony PlayStation 2, 2003)

This game is brutal and not for those who have a weak disposition and definitely not for kids. This game is rated M for Mature for good reason.

You are James Earl Cash, who has woken up to find that your death sentence hasn't really been carried out. You were given a tranquilizer under the command of the sick and perverted director Starkweather. He has given you a second chance, but under one condition: You become the leading man in his snuff film. It's kill or be killed in Starkweather's sadistic game and you must fight to survive.

You hunt, sneak, and kill your way through a variety of different gangs under the ever watchful eye of Starkweather. You gain access to an array of weapons ranging from a plastic bag to a shotgun, and even a sniper rifle. The gameplay is fairly linear in contrast to the open worlds that Rockstar usually produces in their games, but that's not to say that it isn't done very well, breaking up stealth sections with sections of intense shooting action. This definitely helps keep the game fresh along with the level designs. In the stealth levels, you sneak up behind some unsuspecting guy and take him out with any weapon. You can perform three different types of attacks from standard, violent, and gruesome and the shooting sections are pretty much standard shoot and kill everything that moves.

The graphics are really good for 2003, on par with that of Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, but everything feels dark, gritty, and nasty, the way you would imagine an actual snuff film would look. It definitely helps set the eerie atmosphere that Rockstar was hoping to achieve with this game.

All in all, the game is what you're looking for if you're into horror and stealth games, but it is also very challenging. There are several sections in this game where you will want to break your controller, but the game is never cheap. Every time you die, it's because you made some kind of mistake. A big part of the challenge that this game provides is the fact that the game forces you to be a more strategic player rather than upgrading your weapons, health, and what not. The game certainly is playable, but be prepared for a lot of controller throwing and teeth grindingly difficult gameplay. This game earns a 4/5.

I also want to stress again that this game is rated M for Mature and for good reason. Only players 17 or older should be playing this game.

I played this game when I was younger and it's a great survival horror title. In the role of Cash, you were just "executed" by the state, yet you awaken in a room to find that reports of your death were slightly hasty. You are informed by a man named Starkweather that you have been recruited to perform in a snuff film (basically, recorded acts of murder). You make your way through 20 levels taking out several gangs of "hunters" all for Starkweather's sick amusement only to see the tables turn when you gain the upper hand.

Primarily known for the controversy the game's storyline and the gruesome methods of executing the hunters, it is still a very good game that emphasizes stealth. I will admit that this game is extremely brutal and very violent. Then again, it is rated "M" for Mature and shouldn't find it's way into the hands of impressionable youth. A great title for horror fans and those who just love violent video games.

I think Manhunt for the PS2 is excellent because it's a very challenging and twisted game. Manhunt is a take on the stealth genre but with a twist since there is a lot of blood and guts, fighting and executions. If you liked GTA San Andreas, you will probably like Manhunt. It's got a very gritty atmosphere and the tension builds with every moment. Plus, the story is very unique and will keep you on the edge of your seat. I believe Manhunt for the PS2 has very cinematic qualities. In some ways, this game reminds me of the Saw movies because there is someone in control of your actions and your job is to kill before you get killed. The story begins with James Earl Cash being led to the electric chair. Suddenly, Mr. Starkweather makes a deal with you where you will be freed from death row if you participate in his "snuff film." There is definitely a learning curve because you have to sneak up behind various gang members who are after you and perform executions with various weapons. It's a violent game, but if you've played other Rockstar games you'll be used to it and enjoy it. Overall, I give Manhunt for the PS2 a 90 out of 100.

Manhunt is rated MA for mature so I do not recommend this game to anyone under 17 years old.

Out of all the brutal games ive played,this one takes it to a whole new level.This game is great because it features a large amount of both melee weapons and guns.In this game you have to find everyday items and use them as weapons.When you fight,it is BRUTAL.You work your way through the abandoned parts of Carcer City during the night.Fighting tough opponents from a plain guy to Piggsy.

BOTTOM LINE-THIS GAME ROCKS!!!!!!!!

Reminiscent of the Bridget Fonda vehicle Point of No Return, where a condemned killer is given a second chance at life if she ("he" in this case) continues to kill for the boss, Manhunt is easily one of the darkest games I have ever seen for the PS2. It's pretty scary in that most of the game you stalk your opponents, and if they spot you you're in big trouble.

Being a Rockstar game, it does have some character development, which makes it interesting. It also has plenty of gore. You can hold down the "execution" button longer to perform a more violent kill.

In short, this game is interesting to play, but ABSOLUTELY merits its "Mature" rating. Please do not let any children near this one!