Advent Rising

 Xbox
User Score
7.5

Generally favorable reviews- based on 71 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 49 out of 71
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 71
  3. Negative: 13 out of 71
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  1. MikeH.
    Jun 3, 2005
    9
    Advent rising is truly something different for a change. I get so sick of the mainstream games. Halo is so over done, but everybody loved it cause Bill Gates is rich and reviewers kiss his... Bottom line, graphics aren't everything get over it. Just because of a few choppy cutscenes and glitches (Halo 2's were worse in my opinion) doesn't mean the game can't deliver Advent rising is truly something different for a change. I get so sick of the mainstream games. Halo is so over done, but everybody loved it cause Bill Gates is rich and reviewers kiss his... Bottom line, graphics aren't everything get over it. Just because of a few choppy cutscenes and glitches (Halo 2's were worse in my opinion) doesn't mean the game can't deliver action at it's best. You can pick up big big aliens and throw them into space while standing behind a magic shield and shooting ice shards at enemies in the distance, at the same time (almost). You can do better moves then the matrix and lay down some beatings wit the quickness. I loved AR and do not care what haters have to say about it!!!!… Expand
  2. JamieP.
    Mar 9, 2006
    9
    Advent rising is an ambitious game and luckily the gameplay squares up to the story. It is is fast paced, intense and challenging. Sure the framerate is a little a choppy and the auto-targeting a bit fiddly but the exellent weapons and superhuman powers more that makes up for its faults. A must for sci-fi fans and gamers alike. Though I had some trouble actually finding this any where, weird.
  3. DennisB.
    Jun 3, 2005
    8
    This is a really GOOD game. in my opinion the only thing stopping this from being great is the framerate issues and the targeting system isn't perfect (camera spins around from time to time) and the game was a bit too short. none of these issues would stop me from buying the sequels but it'd be great if they did something about them before they gave us any sequels.
  4. KarlG.
    Jun 3, 2005
    8
    My overal impression was very pleasing for this game. The frame rate issues become an issue, along with some horrible level scripting and useless vehicle stages. Nevertheless the story is great, music is a gem, and fighting becomes a charm. Once you obtain psychic powers the game is great! Awesome rental for a rainy day, and fresh story.
  5. GabeC.
    Jun 3, 2005
    8
    Reminds me of Breakdown. Story sucks you in. Technically not the worse looking or sounding game... but there are some issues... issues that if you overlook can still lead to an excellent gaming experience. ... hope they do the whole "trilogy". This game is on the edge of "fantastic". They just had some technical problems getting there.
  6. WillM.
    Jan 1, 2006
    8
    Overall, this game is excellent, but the lack of varied gameplay, enemies (only two different types of enemies: Seekers and some special bosses), and a short game bring it down, but not much. The story is excellently-done and the new "flick targeting" works extremely well. There were only frame rate problems when there was a lot of enemies but really I needed to figure out what was going Overall, this game is excellent, but the lack of varied gameplay, enemies (only two different types of enemies: Seekers and some special bosses), and a short game bring it down, but not much. The story is excellently-done and the new "flick targeting" works extremely well. There were only frame rate problems when there was a lot of enemies but really I needed to figure out what was going on also. Another thing was that the first-person mode was horrible to control and Majesco, where the hell is my million dollars?… Expand
  7. TommiK.
    Jan 24, 2006
    10
    This game is what Star wars wanted to be!
  8. BeastF'er
    Jun 2, 2005
    9
    Great game. Loved the music and stroyline.
  9. Matthew
    Jun 2, 2005
    9
    The critics are once again, all wrong (except Maxim???). The game is a blast, story is good especially 'cos this is only part one of three (hard to say the story is no good when you haven't read the whole book yet). There are some framerate drops at times, but the last time I checked, we play games for the actual gaming, not just the graphics. This Is Fun.
  10. Evan(-E!)D.
    Jun 2, 2005
    8
    I'm very pleased with this game. It includes the most graphic depiction of destrucion of planets this side of 'The Forge Of God', and when you get your powers, you REALLY feel like you can kick some ass. Well done, this.
  11. KarlP.
    Jun 3, 2005
    9
    I think the low reviews I've seen online don't quite do the game justice. Yes, there are some camera problems, and yes, the frame rate suffers some times when the action really heats up. I'll even give into the fact that if you're expecting one of Orson Scott Card's litterary masterpieces, you will probably be disappointed with the story and dialogue. But for I think the low reviews I've seen online don't quite do the game justice. Yes, there are some camera problems, and yes, the frame rate suffers some times when the action really heats up. I'll even give into the fact that if you're expecting one of Orson Scott Card's litterary masterpieces, you will probably be disappointed with the story and dialogue. But for those short-comings, the game has some outstanding merits. The score is beautiful, and Advent gives off a strangely epic "feel". The combat simply never gets old. With all the different power/weapon combinations plus Gideon's amazing acrobatic moves, the are a hundred different ways to dish out the pain.… Expand
  12. PaulJ.
    Jun 6, 2005
    10
    This game rocks! A must have for any sci-fi lover.
  13. StephanP.
    Jul 7, 2005
    9
    I've heard the complaints...bad graphics, glitches, bad framerates, annoying flick-targeting system, dodge and pick up item being the same button. I have to say they weren't problems for me. The graphics I think are gorgeous--certainly on par with things like Jade Empire. They are stylized and some moments are particularly stunning. Glitches? My game never crashed once...and the I've heard the complaints...bad graphics, glitches, bad framerates, annoying flick-targeting system, dodge and pick up item being the same button. I have to say they weren't problems for me. The graphics I think are gorgeous--certainly on par with things like Jade Empire. They are stylized and some moments are particularly stunning. Glitches? My game never crashed once...and the same can not be said about KotOR: Sith Lords. Framerate--I didn't notice anything that took me out of emersion. I only had flick-targeting problems once in a while. Never once did I dodge when I wanted to pick up a weapon or vice-versa. My game experience was not marred by a lot of the problems people have complained about. What I can say it that this game is really fun. It successfully captures a very cinematic experience in a way that few games do. The story line is interesting, the music and voice acting is good. The direction is also very good...the game does a good job of making you feel tense and under pressure...especially in the first half where you spend a lot of time running for your life. There are also really nice little details...for example the main character Gideon ends up getting a scar on his temple after a battle that is visible for the rest of the game. Perhaps this isn't for FPS graphics snobs...but that isn't what sort of game this is. There is some great stuff after the credits (so be sure to wait for it). The lasts about 20 hours. I hope it gets lots of sales, I want Part 2 of the trilogy! -- Oh and kudos to Majesco for not giving a cliffhanger ending that negates the game we just played. If you liked 007: Everything or Nothing, I think you'd like this.… Expand
  14. Evilash
    Aug 17, 2005
    9
    Let me start by saying that I'm not going to get picky about graphics, control or frame rate. My review is based on my overall feeling about the game as a whole, and let me say that this game is stellar. If you're at all interested in futuristic sci-fi games that involve psychic abilities where you can pick up aliens three times your size and telekinetically lift them and slam Let me start by saying that I'm not going to get picky about graphics, control or frame rate. My review is based on my overall feeling about the game as a whole, and let me say that this game is stellar. If you're at all interested in futuristic sci-fi games that involve psychic abilities where you can pick up aliens three times your size and telekinetically lift them and slam them against the wall, then this game is for you. The story and music in this game really suck you in and makes you want to get home as soon as possible to finish this game and see what else happens.… Expand
  15. AlvinG.
    May 31, 2005
    10
    The modern day zelda/ender's game!!!! every gamer should buy this now.
  16. RonM.
    Jun 1, 2005
    10
    Bought it at EB last night - stayed home from classes all day to play. So far, great great game. Graphics look great and I had NO framerate problems. Story is very cool and the cinematics are outstanding. The story is good - not what I thought it was going to be - but still very good. Overall, I'd give the game a 9.5!
  17. AaronL.
    Jun 1, 2005
    9
    Despite what some review sites may say, I think that this is an excellent game. The game may suffer from some frame rate issues now and then, a few bland textures here and there, a few rough transitions, and an occasional camera/targeting problem, but overall I think it should be a must buy for any Xbox owner. The story, thus far, has been quite well done. Advent Rising does a good job Despite what some review sites may say, I think that this is an excellent game. The game may suffer from some frame rate issues now and then, a few bland textures here and there, a few rough transitions, and an occasional camera/targeting problem, but overall I think it should be a must buy for any Xbox owner. The story, thus far, has been quite well done. Advent Rising does a good job conveying an immersive and cinematic experience. If you are unsure about the game, do yourself a favor and at least rent it and give it a shot.… Expand
  18. Alex
    Jun 15, 2005
    8
    When i first picked up Advent Rising i honestly didn't know what to expect. i'd read a lot of very mixed reviews and was a little concerned about the money i'd spent. turns out, Advent Rising is actually pretty damn good. the framerate did chug a little in some places, but it really wasn't as bad as most people make it out to be. there were some awkward animationWhen i first picked up Advent Rising i honestly didn't know what to expect. i'd read a lot of very mixed reviews and was a little concerned about the money i'd spent. turns out, Advent Rising is actually pretty damn good. the framerate did chug a little in some places, but it really wasn't as bad as most people make it out to be. there were some awkward animation problems, the graphics didn't look overly spectacular, and there weren't any real rag-doll effects to speak of, but it didn't really take away much from the overall effect. however, the game got a little to easy once you started gaining your powers. it becomes incredibly easy just to hold a group of enemies up in the air and plug away at them while they dangle helplessly. aside from the above flaws, Advent Rising turned out to be a very solid shooter. its almost like a third person Halo, with some other elements from big-name franchises like Titan AE and the Matrix. 8.5 overall.… Expand
  19. VinceP.
    Jun 3, 2005
    10
    I heard this game sucked but whoever said that needs to be shot in the face this game rules sure it slows down but once i got my first power everything was fine and i went back through the beginning 3 times its so awesome definitely what i was waiting for 10/10 for me. Screw GameSpot.
  20. AlanS.
    Jun 3, 2005
    10
    Best game to come out in a while, awesome cinematics, great story, and a hell of a lot of fun.
  21. EddieG.
    Jun 6, 2005
    9
    Awesome!!! Sure the game has a few glitches and bugs, but once you look past it, the game is amazing. Once you receive your first power, the game does a 360, and takes off, fueled by a story that captures you and keeps pulling you in, until the very end.(would you expect anything less, from the #1 science fiction novelist?) This 1st installment is a great start for this trilogy. Awesome!!! Sure the game has a few glitches and bugs, but once you look past it, the game is amazing. Once you receive your first power, the game does a 360, and takes off, fueled by a story that captures you and keeps pulling you in, until the very end.(would you expect anything less, from the #1 science fiction novelist?) This 1st installment is a great start for this trilogy. Can't wait to see AR 2 on Xbox 360!! P.S. Just a little FYI, gamespots review was also based upon, playing the game without knowledge of the "flick targeting system".--typical gamespot mo.… Expand
  22. [Anonymous]
    Jun 6, 2005
    8
    The framerate is a suffering component but I really like the story. Now with me being an Orson Scott Card fan a few of you might deem this bias but i dare you to try the game and tell me that the story isnt amazing. The gameplay is just a small bit of polish away from being impossibly good. God willing Orson Scott Card will make more games because if anything about this game is amazing The framerate is a suffering component but I really like the story. Now with me being an Orson Scott Card fan a few of you might deem this bias but i dare you to try the game and tell me that the story isnt amazing. The gameplay is just a small bit of polish away from being impossibly good. God willing Orson Scott Card will make more games because if anything about this game is amazing its the freaking story.… Expand
  23. Jason
    Jun 9, 2005
    9
    Wow! It's amazing how average gameplay and a choppy framerate can be completely dismissed when you get a story this good. This game sucks you in like an Orson Scott Card Novel. Read Ender's Game, then play this.
  24. AlexM.
    Jul 15, 2007
    9
    This game was intense. Sure, there were lag issues, glitches, and bugs, but the story is what really counts. i think they should make a second one. i know i would buy it.
  25. KatK
    May 11, 2008
    9
    Best game I've played. While Halo and Halo II are good games, Advent Rising is a cut above. Ultimately you are only limited by your imagination. I've read criticism of the long cut scenes but to understand how and why you are a part of the story is integral to creating not just a game but a true adventure.
  26. MikeZ.
    May 31, 2005
    9
    When I saw the review for it on gamespy, I was shocked. I felt like i had been shot three times in the chest. But when i got the game, I found out it was not crappy but one of the best games for the x-box. I dont care about your opinion, this is a great game.
  27. JuanAntonioE.
    Jun 15, 2005
    10
    Great game, great story, could do better visuals and increase the frame rate...great score....and the best of all is on XBOX ONLY!...long live advent rising!
  28. NaviarW.
    Jul 23, 2007
    10
    Advent Rising has flaws but, Overall. This is one of the greatist games of all time. The Score is arguably, better then Halo. The story is one of love, action, belief and responsibility. Most deffinetly up there with The Matrix, Star Wars and other greats. the gameplay is where the game falls. Although it has the best lock-on system I have ever played, it is lock-on. But I think the game Advent Rising has flaws but, Overall. This is one of the greatist games of all time. The Score is arguably, better then Halo. The story is one of love, action, belief and responsibility. Most deffinetly up there with The Matrix, Star Wars and other greats. the gameplay is where the game falls. Although it has the best lock-on system I have ever played, it is lock-on. But I think the game picks itself back up and keeps going because of its pace. The fact that you change weapons and special abilitys and to duel wiled them, dozens of combinations are possible. This game was ahead of, not only it's time but, it's generation. Just look at games comming out later this year and games comming out next year. Stranglehold, Uncharted, Fracture, Star Wars: The Force Unleashed! Advent Rising is my favorite game of all time and the sadest thing to happen in video game history, for me, is the cancellation of the rest of the Advent Trilogy.… Expand
  29. GameMan2005
    Aug 22, 2023
    8
    This game might be a meme because of the contest, but it's honestly fairly solid.

Awards & Rankings

10
#10 Most Discussed Xbox Game of 2005
34
#34 Most Shared Xbox Game of 2005

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
68

Mixed or average reviews - based on 50 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 24 out of 50
  2. Mixed: 22 out of 50
  3. Negative: 4 out of 50
  1. Yahoo!
    80
    Glyphyx bit off a little more than it could chew, as the bugs and hiccups show. Still, the developer dishes out a thrilling tale with varied gameplay that will keep you immersed through the end.
    Read full review
  2. Games Radar
    80
    If technical difficulties like a choppy framerate and a maddening enemy targeting system didn't get in the way, this would be one of the year's best games. As it stands, however, it's a darn good one.
    Read full review
  3. AceGamez
    80
    An impressive title and the involving storyline means that before too long you're playing it well into the night and forgetting to eat, work, or even make it to the bathroom.
See all critic reviews »