Cabela's Dangerous Hunts 2009

Embark on a gripping journey with Cabela’s Dangerous Hunts 2009, where the essence of the wild is captured in every expedition. This game isn’t just about the hunt; it’s about the heart-racing experience that comes with it. As you traverse the diverse landscapes of Africa and Canada, you’ll find yourself in a world where every step could be a dance with danger.

The game stands out in the hunting genre, reminiscent of classics like Deer Hunter 3D but with a narrative depth that rivals the likes of Red Dead Redemption’s wilderness. After a bear’s attack leaves a personal void, your quest becomes more than a hunt—it’s a path to closure, a narrative that weaves through the gameplay and tugs at your adventurous spirit.

Stalking the Shadows

The game’s “Hunter Sense” mechanic is a game-changer, offering a level of immersion that’s rare in hunting simulations. It’s not without its learning curve, but the payoff? It’s the difference between playing a game and living the hunt.

Cabela 2009 draws inspiration from its contemporaries to achieve this Hunter Sense. Those familiar with Batman Arkham Asylum no doubt have seen something similar to help them navigate the game's levels.

While some might see this as a crutch for the game's lackluster map design, the truth is that it makes Cabela 2009 one of the most accessible games in the series.

Unleashing the Arsenal

With a weapon for every scenario, from rifles that roar to handguns that hiss, Cabela’s Dangerous Hunts 2009 ensures your gear is as ready for the challenge as you are. The customization options are a hunter’s dream, allowing you to tailor your approach to each unique encounter.

While somewhat basic compared to something like theHunter: Call of the Wild, the weapon customization is still deep enough for gun nuts to get their fix. Choosing the right type of gun for the job in every setting can be the difference between coming back home with a hoard of pelts, and ending up just like your pal.

That said, there's a certain feeling of cruelty to the game's core gameplay loop. Now, I have nothing against hunting games, but Cabela 2009's plot trying to justify the player killing hundreds of animals just because their pal was killed by a bear sounds rather unnecessary. Still, as weak as the plot might be, it's the only thing keeping Cabela 2009 from becoming a full-on arcade lightgun title.

Facing the Gauntlet

Yes, the game has its quirks – graphics that remind you of its age and a tracking system that demands your best. But these are mere footnotes in an adventure that’s brimming with raw, untamed excitement. The mission variety is the spice of the game, offering a blend of challenges that keep you coming back for more.

It's a shame that the game looks the way it does, though. Even simpler games like Endless Ocean feature better visuals, and there's an entire generation between that and Cabela 2009.

Pros

• Good selection of weapons
• Exciting tracking mechanics
• Cool action setpieces

Cons

• Needless plot
• Dated visuals
• Bizarre mission structure