8Bit/Digi

Some Old School Chaos

Long before evolving into the immersive crime experience it is today, Grand Theft Auto garnered fame for the mayhem and chaos players could unleash. Despite its evolution, there are moments when one yearns for those simpler times. Not only for the classic GTA but also for titles like Postal, with its wicked sense of humor.

That is why it’s always welcoming when a game like Maniac attempts to recreate that experience. 

Maniac encapsulates the defining elements of the original Grand Theft Auto, the anti-hero persona, and humor reminiscent of Postal, all while infusing it with the artistic style of Bad Day LA. The culmination is a game that transports players to a simpler time. It’s also a reminder that video games don’t always need to be massive projects with a level of complexity. Sometimes the simplest of games can bring us the most entertainment. 

Merry Christmas Everybody 

Don’t anticipate a profound plot or any narrative depth in this game. You simply choose a character and aim to survive for as long as possible while wreaking havoc in all forms. That’s the entirety of Maniac, and you don’t require any other motivation. Consider it akin to playing the classic Grand Theft Auto games. Now the primary goal is to unleash chaos while striving to endure as long as possible.

What it lacks in story, it makes up for with its gameplay. 

The gameplay mechanics follow the classic setup reminiscent of old-school Grand Theft Auto games. Players have the freedom to wreak havoc using a variety of tools at their disposal, including melee weapons, firearms, explosives, and vehicles. The action unfolds from an angled-down perspective, but players also have the option to switch to a classic top-down view. After each playthrough, gamers have the opportunity to enhance their character by spending the money they’ve accumulated. Upgrades can include improving body armor, vehicle armor, explosive radius, or enhancing weapons, among other options.

HOTDOG!!!

The late 90s to the early 2000s marked a distinctive era for gaming, and Maniac adeptly encapsulates it. Games were evolving in both tone and technology, allowing for more unique titles. For those who spent hours causing mayhem in Grand Theft Auto III will rekindle that experience once again. All that beckons is chaos and survival, offering an experience where one needn’t concern themselves with narratives, missions, or progression – just pure, unadulterated fun.

Don’t think for a moment the game ignores every lesson learned in the last 20 years of game development. In comparison to its predecessors, it boasts a more polished overall experience. Gameplay elements are executed with greater finesse, and visually, it’s more refined without being overly demanding on your PC. This allows for a better experience while also welcoming younger gamers who seek that classical experience.

Don’t Be Rude

Maniac represents a significant evolution of the classic gaming formula that once defined titles like GTA. However, not all new features necessarily enhance gameplay. Particularly for me, the auto-aim can be more of a nuisance than a help. Smoothing driving I have mixed feelings about while the infinite ammo feels like a must instead of a choice. It’s worth noting that these features are optional, but initially, the game’s setting may mislead players until they realize they have the option.

Here I Come

Maniac is an old-school experience that captures the defining elements of some of the most iconic titles. It’s a classic adventure of chaos and mayhem, refined with contemporary insights. The outcome is a game that beckons you to play for hours, with the freedom to pursue whatever you desire.

Disclaimer: The publisher through a PR representative provided the game used for this review.

This review is the critique and thoughts of one writer. If you want to see how other critics felt then check it out on OpenCritic.

8Bit/Digi is an independent media outlet that provides insight into the gamer community of the San Francisco Bay Area.

Maniac (PC)

8

Excellent

8.0/10

Pros

• Encapsulates the defining elements of numerous classic games.
• Easy to learn combat and gameplay mechanics.
• Incorporates the lessons learned in the last 20 years of game development

Cons

• Not all new features necessarily enhance gameplay