Just when you thought you’d seen it all, here comes a game which actually seeks to put you in the shoes of a firefighter. Let’s face it, most of us don’t have the guts to actually endure the dangers and hardships that firefighters deal with on a daily basis, that’s why we play video games instead. Simply put, “Real Heroes: Firefighter” does an excellent job of recreating the basic experience for you, and it even incorporates rather extensive levels as well.
Unlike many other needlessly complex pseudo-simulators however, here you’ll find arcade-like elements and plenty of unique puzzles amidst fairly straightforward FPS controls. In other words, this title is part RPG, FPS and Strategy – a true hybrid.
Visuals
While the graphics aren’t exactly cutting-edge, they’re still somewhat enjoyable despite some minor glitches and pixilation issues. Aside from that, you’ll be surrounding by fire and smoke most of the time, trying to help out your comrades and rescue helpless civilians.
In the audio department, there are a couple of notable individuals participating via voice-over work – John DiMaggio (Futurama) and James Marsters (Buffy the Vampire Slayer). Needless to say, they both turn in excellent performances worth of B-movie fame.
Gameplay
As previously mentioned, puzzles play an important role in this game, and they usually come in the form of creating pathways, cutting off gas leaks, or switching off electrical sources. What’s truly interesting about this title is that gamers might actually learn something about firefighting through it (however it’s still fun).
Players can also directly control the water cannons mounted on the fire trucks, which is a great way to help contain larger blazes. It’s actually quite a lot of fun and a refreshing change of pace to wield an axe in a situation that doesn’t require you to chop down some ogre or mutant. Instead, you’ll use your axes, crowbars and extinguishers to save lives.
Verdict
Yes, “Real Heroes: Firefighter” is a slightly generic game that probably belongs in the budget section at your local video game dispensatory, but that doesn’t mean that it isn’t worth your time. This title brings a unique style of gameplay to the forefront which is extremely different from the usual sordid fare of gritty warfare and space marine exploits. What’s more, there are even useful tidbits about fires and firefighting which are dispensed throughout. So it’s probably a good game to play through at least once if only to absorb some relevant safety knowledge.
