Twisted Metal
Feb 12, 2013 14 years ago
Twisted Metal consists of a series of arena-based battles against an increasing number of opponents in increasingly large arenas. These battles culminate in a face-off with the winner of the previous year's competition, Darkside, who drives a large armored car which fires multiple missiles at once. Players can choose one of 12 different vehicles with which to enter combat. Each vehicle has a distinct driver and special move. The controls consist of accelerator, brake, "tight turn" (essentially a handbrake) and turbo on the face buttons, with main weapons and machine gun selection and control on the shoulder buttons. Arenas are populated with weapon pickups to re-supply missile stocks, repair stations for repairing damage to your car, pedestrians, and course stewards armed with either machine guns or missile launchers.
What it’s like
Twisted Metal delivers a high-octane, arcade-style vehicular combat experience defined by chaotic destruction and dark humor. The premise centers on a deadly tournament where drivers battle in increasingly large arenas using heavily armed vehicles, culminating in confrontations with formidable opponents like the missile-spamming Darkside. The tone is irreverent and over-the-top, embracing its 'gonzo' roots with killer clowns, skull motorcycles, and absurd weaponry rather than realistic simulation. Gameplay focuses on fast-paced arena brawls where mastering tight turns, turbo boosts, and weapon pickups is key to survival. The craft prioritizes visceral feedback and explosive action over narrative depth or complex strategy. With split-screen multiplayer support and distinct vehicle special moves, the experience feels like a modern demolition derby, rewarding aggressive playstyles and quick reflexes in a world that values spectacle and satire above all else.
Strong in Co-op / MultiplayerCombatAtmosphere / MoodAudio / MusicGameplay / MechanicsPacingPolish / PerformanceVisuals / Art
Keep in mind The narrative is thin and serves primarily as a framework for the action, offering little emotional investment. The arcade physics are intentionally floaty and unrealistic, which may frustrate players seeking authentic driving simulation or tactical depth.
AI-generated from catalog data, informed by reviews from ign.com, thegamer.com, hollywoodreporter.com, screenrant.com, thedailybeast.com, pastemagazine.com.
Screenshots
Releases
| Platform | Region | Type | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| PlayStation | Worldwide | Full release | Nov 10, 199531 years ago |
| PC (Microsoft Windows) | Worldwide | Full release | 199630 years ago |
| PlayStation 3 | Worldwide | Full release | Feb 12, 201314 years ago |
| PlayStation Portable | Worldwide | Full release | Feb 12, 201314 years ago |
