NAM

Description

When NAM came out in 1998, it showed that even on an older gaming platform like DOS, it was still possible to innovate and deliver interesting content. Developed by TNT Team and distributed by GT Interactive, NAM is a war shooter game using the proven engine from Duke Nukem 3D. The game is set during the Vietnam War, which provided the developers with a sufficiently dramatic and intense context for their FPS adventure.

The game's story follows a soldier who finds himself in the middle of a raging war, and his goal is to survive and complete his assigned missions. A significant element of NAM is its attempt to portray combat realistically, which in this case is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it offers an atmospheric and thrilling gameplay environment, on the other hand, the game cannot avoid repetitive gameplay and linear progression that can get tiresome after a while.

Graphically, NAM is noticeably anchored in its time. The engine from Duke Nukem 3D provides a good base, but doesn't offer any big surprises. The Vietnamese jungle environments are raw and bleak, but the limitations of the technology peek out from time to time in the form of less detailed textures or simpler terrain geometry. The sound design then complements the atmosphere well, be it the sounds of weapons, explosions or the environment.

NAM's gameplay is solid and player interaction within missions is intense. Weapons have their own characteristics and with limited ammo, tactics are essential. However, some missions can feel monotonous in terms of design with no clear direction, which can cause frustration for players. The artificial intelligence of the enemies also doesn't reach the greatest heights and it can be the case that their predictable behaviour detracts from the overall challenge.

Still, the game cannot be denied its historical value and commitment to authenticity. Despite its shortcomings, NAM offers a good dose of action set in a period that was, and still is, a popular fabric for the gaming and film industries. For fans of retro gaming and wartime FPSs, the game is a valuable addition to the collection, and while it may not live up to the greats of its time, it still has something to offer those who can appreciate its context and period character.