Duke Nukem 3D: 20th Anniversary World Tour

Duke Nukem 3D: 20th Anniversary World Tour is a faithful remaster of the 1996 classic FPS, preserving the original's fast-paced, over-the-top action and level design while introducing modern enhancements like dynamic lighting and improved performance. The core gameplay remains unchanged, rewarding exploration and aggressive combat with a variety of weapons and enemies. This edition includes a new episode, Alien World Order, crafted by original developers, which fits well with the classic content. Audio improvements feature re-recorded voice lines and new soundtrack elements, plus a commentary mode that adds historical context.

However, the release has notable drawbacks. It lacks several expansion packs from the previously available Megaton Edition, leading to criticism about incomplete content and corporate greed. Technical issues such as poor mouse controls, missing ultrawide resolution support, and occasional bugs detract from the experience. The game's dated humor and some offensive themes also divide players. Despite these flaws, the game remains a beloved classic, especially for fans of 90s shooters, though the remaster is best appreciated on sale or by those new to Duke Nukem 3D.

Highlights

Players praise the game's classic, engaging gameplay mechanics that emphasize exploration, secret hunting, and varied combat. The new episode, Alien World Order, is well-received for its design and integration with original content. Visual upgrades like dynamic lighting and high-resolution support enhance the retro aesthetic without compromising the original style. The re-recorded voice acting and updated soundtrack add polish, while the commentary mode enriches the experience for longtime fans. The level design remains strong and nostalgic, with a solid arsenal and memorable enemies maintaining the game's iconic status.

Criticisms

Common criticisms focus on technical issues, including poor mouse input, lack of ultrawide resolution support, and bugs such as automatic weapon swapping and collision problems. The absence of multiple classic expansion packs from previous editions frustrates many players, who view this as a cash grab. Some find the new episode too linear compared to the original's maze-like levels. The game's humor and themes, especially regarding gender and violence, are seen as outdated or offensive by some. Overall, the remaster is considered incomplete and imperfect, with a desire for better polish and more content.