Desert Tank combines all the playability of the evergreen Battlezone with the latest hi-tech imagery of Sega's Model 2 CG texture-mapping technology. Placed in the role of a tank commander you must take on the might of a sinister computer intent on destroying civilization.
Developed by America's Martin Marietta, one of the world's foremost military simulation designers, the player has the choice of either a beginner's desert course or the expert canyon. The graphics are superb, using the same 32-bit 300,000 polygon/sec engine as found in the acclaimed Daytona.
Screen layout is simple and functional, with score and armour strength listed in top left hand corner, a map of the area in the bottom left and mission time countdown in the top right.
VR buttons control the viewing aspect, which can be placed just behind the tank, inside the turret or for a more strategic approach in a high, overhead tracking plane.
The directional controls consist of a steering yoke and fire buttons. Fire buttons control either the high powered cannon or lethal machine guns. A gear stick and acceleration pedal control speed and forward momentum.
Desert Tank represents an unparalleled gaming experience that will be enjoyed by cyber-grunts of all persuasions. If war is your thing, but getting killed isn't, then Desert Tank is the game that will make all your wet dreams come alive. Dulce et decorum est, pro patria mori!
This review is Copyright (C) 1994 by Nathan Cochran for Game Bytes Magazine. All rights reserved.