Graphics and Sound

Wolfenstein’s visuals really showcase the capabilities of id’s Tech 4 engine. It’s certainly not bleeding edge - we’re talking about the Doom 3 engine here - but it has aged well. Modern staples like depth of field, soft shadows, various post-processing effects, HDR lighting, and improved shaders are all accounted for. I was able to run it with my Core 2 Duo and GeForce 8800 GTS on maximum settings and enjoyed a stable framerate of 60 (V-sync is a must for me). There is some slight slowdown in high traffic areas and whenever you enter or exit the Veil, but otherwise it is smooth sailing.

Liquid and gas effects, decals, and textures also work well to create convincing environmental ambiance and gore. The first time I shot a Nazi in the face, I thought part of it had blown off, but turns out it was just colored black and red. More powerful weapons can take off heads or limbs, and some death animations are so gruesome… Let’s just say that the bayonet upgrade for the Kar98 makes you want to melee more often. Most objects are destructible thanks to the Havok physics, which makes for some pretty cool scenes when anti-gravity is involved.




Sound effects are hit and miss; while many weapon sounds are meaty and satisfying, others can be more hollow and tinny. Most of the Nazi voiceovers are done in a pretty awful, stereotypical German accent, but really, what else would you expect? Death screams and gurgles are pretty good, the latter having a pretty chilling effect on me at first. The original score was composed by the same guy that did Return to Castle Wolfenstein. Apparently he has done some good work in TV and movies, too, and I can see why. The music that kicks in during combat really captures that frenetic 40s vibe, reminding me a lot of the Indiana Jones films.