Twisted Metal: Black Online

About

Twisted Metal: Black Online is a vehicular combat game that pits players against each other in chaotic races and shootouts. You tear through 18 stages using a roster of deadly cars each with their own weapons and handling quirks. The focus is on online multiplayer where you can jump into deathmatch last man standing collector or manhunt modes. Power relic modifiers add chaotic twists to matches while split screen and co op options keep the local action fresh. Originally bundled as a free download with PS2 network hardware this version trims the single player story but keeps the core mayhem intact. What sticks out is how the online features evolved over time. Starting with 4 player matches and limited chat the game later supported 8 players over broadband with unlockable text communication. Players could tweak server settings to enable the chat feature by entering a hidden code. While the violent cutscenes and main story are missing the competitive modes remain sharp and the car customization options hold up. It sits as a niche but solid entry in the Twisted Metal series for those who want fast online brawls without the narrative baggage.

Storyline

Black is on a mission for another person to locate and murder Calypso. However the person who sent him has never before been seen and it is never revealed why exactly he is carrying out this mission. According to the original Twisted Metal created in the year 1995, in TM:B the entire storyline is darker, and is referred to as an "alternate universe," in comparison to the other Twisted Metal games. As stated, it is because it is all in Needles Kane's head. But there is even more to TM:B. Black, the driver of Manslaughter, made an appearance in TM(1995), Darkside's driver Mr. Ash's "lost" ending. In that ending he wants his demon "black" back, which makes one believe Mr. Ash is Satan. When he gets Black back, Calypso gets very upset. This is because Black is sent on a mission to kill a darker, more evil Calypso in the "Black" universe.