This post has not been edited by the GamesBeat staff. Opinions by GamesBeat community writers do not necessarily reflect those of the staff.
A byproduct of pop-culture in post-9/11 America, 24 grew to become one of the most popular and influential shows of the decade. With a 192-episodes backed with multiple awards along with a TV movie, a series of comics and a video game has made 24 one of the most iconic franchises.
Yes, there was even a 24-game that was released back in 2006 for the PS2. Now forgotten; 24: The Game could have presented a positive opportunity for the francise but due to a series of flaws rendered it as another movie-game. Now examining what gave the game an edge and what hurt it with critics.
The plot is set between the events of Day 2 and Day 3 with story split between multiple characters. The main story focuses on the efforts of Jack Bauer and CTU as they attempt to stop a terrorist group from unleashing a series of attacks in LA which include an assassination attempt on Vice President Jim Prescott.
Like the show, the game was set in the 24 hour time frame with each level set in the hour time slot. Its game-play featured a mix of third-person action along with driving and a series of mini-games.
The game also needs credit for having one of the best cast of actors featured in a video game. But unlike most game-tie in; 24 had the entire cast of the show lend their voice and likeness to the game. Among the games ensemble cast include:
Kiefer Sutherland – Jack Bauer
Dennis Haysbert – David Palmer
Reiko Aylesworth – Michelle Dessler
Elisha Cuthbert – Kim Bauer
Carlos Bernard – Tony Almeida
James Badge Dale – Chase Edmunds
Mary Lynn Rajskub – Chloe O'Brian
Glenn Morshower – Agent Aaron Pierce
Paul Schulze – Ryan Chappelle
Sarah Clarke – Nina Myers
However it would be a series of glitches and the lack of real effort put into its development that would plague the game. The third-person component suffered from poor camera-angle along with enemy AI being predictable. The vehicle section was also disappointing for its poor vehicle handling along with the action being very dull. This is all thanks the sloppy work done by a mediocre development team who rushed the product just so it could be released in time forSeason 5.
Re-branding Jack Bauer into a video game hero would allow the series to continue in a new media. By applying the same creativity used in the James Bond-games, 24 could successfully continue as a video game franchise.
With video games the imagination is limitless as it will allow 24 to redesign itself without compromising some of its notable aspects. Plus many game designers have mentioned 24 as an inspiration, so putting together a professional team will not be difficult.
Sure, the first game may have been a failure but that was because it endured the same fate as a movie-game. But with the show cancelled, a 24-game would need to stand out on its own. 24 as a game will allow one of the most iconic series to continue in a new media with element that will appeal fans while attracting new admires.
In the end 24: The Game should not be looked down as a complete failure but as a trial & error that has presented an opportunity on how to make a better 24-game in the future.