Home » Articles » PC Game Review

Jumpgate

	Author: Brian Rubin Article Type: PC Game Review Publication Date: 10/21/2003 Developer: NetDevil Publisher: NetDevil Related Categories: Science Fiction, Tactical, Online or Multi-Player, Spaceship Combat

Technically Speaking

In terms of graphics and sounds, Jumpgate doesn't really impress most gamers, but it's not meant to in this regard. The graphics, while nice and detailed, are somewhat bland and blocky. Stations are underwhelming in size, and even the largest of spaceships aren't that…well…large. Audibly, the game is basic as well, and while the included MP3 tracks in the larger download are nice, I eventually tossed them in favor of my own soundtrack.

When gamers consider, however, that Jumpgate can be played successfully over a modem with little lag, they begin to understand why the graphics aren't as flashy as some of its competitors, or why its sound isn't as rich. Overall, while graphically and audibly, Jumpgate isn't a showcase for a new graphics card; in this case, it doesn't matter that much, as they're serviceable and get the job done. They also keep lag to a minimum, allowing the game to be played on a wide variety of internet connections.

This is the station screen, where one buys equipment, selects missions, and so on.	Mining an asteroid in a Khamsin-class heavy miner.

Chinks in the Armor

While I've mainly sung the praises of Jumpgate, it's not without its flaws, although there are few. The first of Jumpgate's few flaws is its unfriendliness to new players. While certain concessions have been made to help new players, such as docking computers to assist new players with docking (when they work properly) or low level Conflux for which to practice combat, many low level pilots are relegated to simple transport or mining missions. This requires a lot of patience on the part of the player, therefore, to get to the really good stuff.

For example, while there are lower levels of Conflux to be used as fodder for new pilots, it's really not until level nine that gamers will be able to get a decent light fighter, and therefore can engage in more exciting combat. If gamers want to haul cargo, for example, it's not until level twenty-six, wherein they can purchase a Cargo TOW-class ship, in which they can really start to make big money. While this rewards those with the patience to see the light at the end of the tunnel, I know many people who have been turned off by the relatively slow pace of the early game. The lack of graphical splendor already mentioned might also turn some people off to the game, but this is more of a personal preference.

Overall, in the years I've been playing Jumpgate, I've had few problems with the game, whether technically or within the game. The game is very stable, and runs on a variety of hardware. While some might, again, have a problem with the early game, their patience will be rewarded if they endure the admittedly slow early portion of the game.

Conclusion

Overall, I have found Jumpgate to be a breath of fresh air. It's a space sim/MMORPG with style, charm, and substance. While I personally found games such as EVE or Earth and Beyond boring after a certain amount of time, I've not once found Jumpgate boring in the several years I've been playing it. It's such an addictive game that I've put aside other games to play it. While I actually have other pressing matters to attend to, the main reason I've not completed them is Jumpgate. To a space simulations fan such as myself, Jumpgate is about as close to gaming nirvana as I've come. This combined with the excellent support through NetDevil and the community is icing on an already delicious cake.

Gamers who are fans of science fiction, space simulations, role playing, or are tired of the normal Point-and-Click gameplay should give Jumpgate a try. My review has barely skimmed the surface of what's available in Jumpgate, and I leave it up to the reader to discover what the rest of its vibrant and exciting universe has in store. Readers can find more information about Jumpgate from the aforementioned JOSSH site or the official forums, as well as fantastic fan websites such as Jumpgate Web or Jumpgate Warcry. Any readers who decide to try the game can look for pilot "Veloxi", that's me. And like much of the community, I'm more than willing to help. Good luck, Pilot.

System Specifications

About the Author

Brian Rubin was flying virtual spaceships long before driving real cars. Beginning with the original Elite, Brian has played nearly every space simulation released for the PC in the last twenty years. While his girlfriend thinks the pride he takes in this is dubious, Brian indeed takes pride in this accomplishment.

All screenshots captured exclusively with HyperSnap-DX by Hyperionics.