True Lies

Relax.

The latest Schwarzenegger game isn't based on Junior.

It's Acclaim's True Lies, starring Arnold as a government agent who must save the world from — you guessed it — nuclear annihilation in straightforward run'n gun Action.

You and the terrorists you're up against acquire increasingly lethal weapons.

As for the espionage angle, the puzzles aren't too puzzling and the secret passageways are pretty easy to find.

And the three-quar-ter overhead view makes for smallish sprites. But for classic blast-or-be-blasted play, True Lies delivers in, well, clubs.

Hot Hints

1. Search out secret passageways in the chateau.
2. The antipersonnel mine is your most powerful weapon.
3. You can shoot across tables and counters but not through walls or windows.

With detailed graphics, plenty of levels and lots of variety, True Lies should keep action fans happy for a long time.

Enter never-before-seen secret missions in an attempt to overthrow your archrival and ensure safety for the rest of the world. You might have the assistance of your buddy, Gib, and some impressive artillery, but that doesn't mean this trip's going to be a cakewalk. With heavily-armed terrorists, surprise attacks, and devastating boss levels, True Lies delivers all of the action of the movies without the sappy endings and the expensive popcorn.

True Lies is basically an overhead scroller with endless shootouts in places such as a chateau, a mall, a park, and a refinery, among others. The excellent controls include a diving roll and a strafing move that's incredibly useful. There's no shortage of ammo, and Harry is armed with uzis, flame-throwers, shotguns, and grenades. Enemies splatter with blood and fall to the ground when shot. But be careful! If you shoot three civilians, you'll need to restart the level. The game even incorporates Harry's partner (Tom Arnold), posting advice on the bottom of the screen. The background music is good, and the sound effects are remarkable. For example, when on the docks, you not only hear the water, but you can even hear the rats! The game climaxes with an exciting overhead shooting stage. A password saves your place. True Lies is an original game that really captures the spirit of a great film.