Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

The Hulk delivers a dual-character gameplay experience that cleverly balances stealth and sheer destructive power. As Dr. Bruce Banner, players must navigate environments with a heightened sense of caution, employing stealth mechanics reminiscent of classic tactical titles. Bruce’s sections demand patience and precision, as even the slightest misstep can alert enemies and force a tactical retreat. This pacing provides a welcome contrast to the game’s more explosive moments.

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When you transform into The Hulk, the gameplay shifts dramatically. The green behemoth’s levels are a playground of chaos, inviting players to unleash over 40 unique attacks on anything that stands in their way. From ground- pounds that shatter concrete to towering leaps that clear entire platoons of soldiers, The Hulk’s move set is both diverse and immensely satisfying. The physicality of his rampages is accentuated by destructible environments, ensuring that no two fights ever feel exactly the same.

Progression between Bruce and Hulk segments feels well-paced and rewarding. Bruce’s stealth missions often culminate in high-stakes encounters that push you to use every gadget and trick at your disposal. Conversely, Hulk’s levels escalate in intensity, introducing heavier foes and environmental hazards that test your mastery of his devastating arsenal. Overall, the gameplay loop remains engaging until the final confrontation with The Leader’s forces.

Graphics

Visual fidelity in Hulk is a mixed bag, yet it manages to capture the essence of its blockbuster movie counterpart. Character models for Bruce Banner and the various military personnel exhibit detailed textures and realistic animations. Facial expressions in cutscenes convey emotion effectively, anchoring the narrative with a human touch before the gamma-fueled action erupts.

The Hulk himself is rendered impressively, with muscle definition and skin textures that flex and ripple dynamically during his furious onslaughts. Shadows and lighting contribute to the mood of each level, heightening tension during Bruce’s stealth segments and illuminating the chaos of Hulk’s destructive outbursts. Environmental details—such as debris, shattered walls, and vehicle wreckage—are convincingly realized, making every smash and crash feel weighty.

However, the game occasionally suffers from pop-in issues and uneven draw distances, especially in more expansive outdoor areas. Some background elements appear to load late, momentarily breaking immersion. Despite these hiccups, the overall presentation remains strong enough to keep players invested in the unfolding gamma saga.

Story

Picking up after the events of the Eric Bana-led blockbuster film, Hulk’s narrative expands the Marvel lore with a fresh antagonist in The Leader. This new villain’s ambition to replicate gamma-powered giants provides a fitting escalation of stakes, forcing Bruce and the Hulk to confront the darker side of their shared affliction. The storyline dives into themes of power, control, and the unintended consequences of unchecked scientific experimentation.

Cutscenes are seamlessly integrated into gameplay, offering context for each mission and adding emotional weight to Bruce’s plight. Dialogue between Banner and his allies underscores his internal struggle, while interactions with The Leader provide glimpses into the antagonist’s strategic brilliance and obsession with gamma technology. Although some plot beats follow predictable comic-book tropes, the pacing keeps the narrative engaging from start to finish.

Side missions and collectibles pepper the campaign, revealing deeper backstory elements and character motivations. Audio logs and hidden dossiers flesh out secondary characters, such as military commanders and rival scientists, enriching the game’s universe. These narrative layers reward thorough explorers and lend additional substance to the core storyline.

Overall Experience

Hulk offers a compelling blend of stealth and mayhem that caters to fans of both tactical and action-oriented gameplay. The seamless switch between Bruce Banner’s cautious infiltration and The Hulk’s unbridled destruction keeps the pacing fresh and prevents the game from feeling one-dimensional. This duality stands as the title’s greatest strength, allowing players to experience two distinct playstyles within a cohesive campaign.

While the graphics engine demonstrates occasional technical shortcomings, the impressive character models and dynamic environmental effects more than compensate. The visceral satisfaction of watching concrete crumble beneath The Hulk’s fists is matched only by the tense thrill of navigating tight corridors as Banner. Both halves come together to create a balanced experience that rarely loses momentum.

Story-wise, the introduction of The Leader and his gamma army concept injects renewed vigor into the Hulk mythos. Though some narrative elements are familiar, strong voice acting and well-designed cutscenes ensure the plot remains engaging. Combined with varied level design and a robust combat system, Hulk is a solid choice for players seeking a superhero adventure that emphasizes both brains and brawn.

Retro Replay Score

6.5/10