XEvil

XEvil is a free software side-scrolling computer game developed by Steve Hardt at M.I.T. The game is a free-for-all deathmatch that pits any player against another player or a computer player. The game has also been noted as "One of the most graphically violent games ever made," leading to some controversy due over its offensiveness.

The game was created in 1994 and has since been available on many different platforms for download. The game is available for anyone, and leaves a large pool of characters to pick from. Like many online games, the story is underdeveloped, but not necessarily needed for the genre it is in. The game has been reviewed and thought of as violent and addictive, although simple in nature.

Gameplay
XEvil is a third person 2-D side scrolling game. The game is based on moving through randomly generated levels that force the player to attack enemies with one of several randomly chosen characters. The game requires moving through random algorithmically generated levels, which complicates the levels, yet still makes it possible to complete the level using elevators or ladders. Since the game is free and can be played on many operating systems and worldwide, this can be done on a global scale. The game also has a "Kill-Kill-Kill"-Mode, which is an option to make the game harder. The game's only real objective is to survive, and can be played in either a single player or multiplayer mode.

Story
The story behind XEvil is that you are a soul who has died and been sent to hell. In order to determine your place in hell you must compete in a deathmatch to ultimately decide your place in the fiery pits of the underworld.

Characters
The characters are randomly chosen for the player, and each has it own strengths and weaknesses. All the players in the game are deceased (in various ways), since they are fighting their way through Hell. Examples of characters are ninja, walker, Hero, Alien, Chopperboy, Enforcer (created by Chopperboy), FireDemon, Dog, Yeti and Dragon.

Reception
XEvil been called by the online community "fast action" and "is a must-have for anyone interested in straightforward mayhem." Finally the game "features an incredibly addictive gameplay." GamezWorld, who gave the game a 7 out of 10, commented "If you like little shooting orgys, you may like XEvil." The game is listed in the gaming section of the 1997 and 1998 Linux Journal Buyer's Guides and is listed by EBay.