Pandora's Box: The Ultimate GameCube Tier List

#101: Enter the Matrix

Rating: T

Players: 1-2

Price Range: ~$13 USD

A game based on the Matrix universe of movies.

The Matrix films are divisive to say the least, even though I personally don't mind them, at least action-wise.

However, this game is not only inconsequential despite the developers' best efforts in the grand scheme of things, but it was clearly rushed.

For one, while the live-action cutscenes are impressive and the general gunplay with the ability to slow down time is rather cool, many other things clearly have some rough edges.

For one, the animation of just simply running is ridiculous, cartoonishly running with your arms up and down like a maniac. Some of the game environments are very dark and the hand-to-hand fighting is very undercooked, as there is little strategy or depth to it, even if he fact that your shocking amount of movement speed while in this stance it is rather hilarious.

There are also minimal changes to the two campaigns with the two different characters, with one of the only notable differences being in the vehicle sections, in which the female one drives while the male one shoots from behind to fight off Agent Smith.

I don't even remember the characters' names.

Runs fine enough, even if the graphics are underwhelming.

Also, while it is a solo experience, you can input a code into the cheats menu to unlock...a one-on-one multiplayer mode.

It is just the fighting part of the main game, except the fighters can be controlled by human players. It is impossible for the game to end, as there is no time limit, and either player could win an infinite number of times. However, it is kind of funny as one of the levels allow you to play as bipedal cars using tires as fists, or another one where you play as...a cleaning woman and janitor I believe. Funny as a novelty for a little bit, but only a showcase of how unfinished the hand-to-hand combat is.

However, the gunplay is solid and some production values are decent, so this one isn't terrible at the end of the day. Unpolished? Sure, but its inexpensive price makes it at least an unintrusive purchase when all is said and done.