Publisher: Interplay
Developer: Computer Artworks

Is evolution a gradual and systematic series of changes in a species, or is it characterized by cataclysmic and sudden events? There are differing views on this subject, but developer Computer Artworks puts the gradual change theory to good use in Evolva. Though at heart a fairly standard shooter, Evolva manages to do a few things differently and establishes a unique atmosphere.

The first thing that grabs your eye when playing Evolva is the excellent work the artists did on creating what can best be termed as an "organic" world. The player controls four GeoHunters that, while humanoid, have a distinct alien appearance. The GeoHunters must journey through twelve missions and neutralize an alien parasitic entity that drains the planet of resources and spawns armies of nasty creatures. The worlds are impressive and unconventional. Levels are filled with large elevation changes, tunnels, lakes, lava rivers, and huge tube-like structures. Evolva's creatures are superbly animated. The world's indigenous creatures always seem to fit the environment and make sense. The parasite creatures range from hideous, to sloth-like, to slimy, and their spider-like movement is very convincing, featuring some excellent animation.

Under the alien sheen, however, Evolva is in fact a recognizable squad shooter. The GeoHunters can run, jump, and shoot different weapons, just like the characters in any shooter, but there are some nice twists on how they operate. GeoHunters gain new abilities, both offensive and defensive, by absorbing the DNA of creatures they've killed. Most of the abilities are derivatives of projectile and close combat weapons found in other games, but a few are more interesting, like the 'sticky feet' trait that gives a GeoHunter traction on slippery surfaces, or the stealth power that helps a GeoHunter sneak by door sensors. Graphical effects such as weapon discharges are outstanding.

Different weapons are accessed via number keys while players use a keyboard and mouse combination to move their GeoHunter and look around. Players control one GeoHunter while the AI controls the other three. The GeoHunter AI is passable, competent enough at close quarter combat, but not as capable as the user in setting up ambushes, using the environment, or operating projectile weapons. The allied AI also has a tendency to let GeoHunters get in your way, resulting in much friendly fire. Pathfinding is generally good and the GeoHunters can usually figure how to follow the leader, though in some tricky spots, the player must intervene to ensure the other GeoHunters get through.