Video Game Classics: Duke Nukem 3D
Some games will live forever as Classics. Welcome to WatchMojo.com and today we’ll be taking a look at 1996’s raunchy PC shooter Duke Nukem 3D.
A parody of science fiction and horror films, Duke had originally been created as a self-proclaimed action hero working for the CIA to combat an evil scientist back in 1991.
Developed by 3D Realms for the home computer, the third entry in the series abandoned the series’ original use of 2D platforming. In exchange, it received then-cutting edge graphics and adopted a 3D first-person perspective.
Essentially rebooting the series, Duke developed a voice like Clint Eastwood’s Dirty Harry; and simultaneously became an egotistical, wisecracking, tough guy who enjoys womanizing and blowing stuff up.
While the series had previously taken place in the late 1990s, Duke Nukem 3D opens sometime in the 21st century.
Centred on Duke’s return home in his space cruiser for a much-needed vacation, his ship is shot down. Landing on Earth, he discovers that aliens have overrun Los Angeles, and mutated humans into animal-like creatures. Worst of all, they had begun kidnapping all of the women!
Featuring a variety of non-linear levels, Duke Nukem gave players the ability to use
the many environments to their advantage. This included using air ducts, back doors and sewers in order to ambush enemies and find hidden supplies.
Even more unique was the player’s ability to interact with their surroundings, such as turning on lights, using urinals, and tipping strippers.
Of course, a testosterone game like this must feature a plethora of devastating weapons. These include Duke’s “Mighty boot” which he could use to kick enemies dead, a pistol, a shotgun, chain gun, rocket launcher and specialty weapons, such as a shrink ray.
Filled with hilarious pop-culture references, and an early attempt at online Multiplayer, this game achieved greater recognition when it was quickly ported to the Nintendo 64. Since then it has also appeared on other downloadable services, such as Xbox Live.
A truly unique B-Movie-like video game classic, Duke Nukem 3D finally received a direct sequel in 2011 called “Duke Nukem Forever”, following more than a decade of crushing development setbacks.
