I will never pass up and opportunity to sing the praises of an under-appreciated gem, mad max is no exception.

it was plagued from the launch as its launch coincided with the release of the phantom pain, and the game industry’s skepticism towards movie-based video games didn’t help its case. however, this is where mad max breaks the mold. it's not just another movie game nor is it a direct adaptation of mad max fury road. instead, it leverages the mad max universe to tell an original story that fits seamlessly within the cinematic lore.

avalanche studios had a remarkable opportunity with the mad max IP, and they maximized it. the wasteland is both desolate and rich with activities. it’s emptiness feels righteous and encounter with life feels all the more rewarding. from dismantling enemy camps to engaging in intense vehicular combat and participating in death races, the game offers a plethora of experiences. the vehicular combat is particularly noteworthy, with detailed upgrading mechanics that transform the magnum opus, your car, into a formidable force. your only trusted companion throughout this lands.

even nine years post-release, mad max runs smoothly and looks impressive, which is a testament to its quality, especially in a year like 2015 when many games suffered from incomplete releases and poor PC ports. the color palette complements the desert theme perfectly, and the game doesn’t shy away from using vibrant colors when appropriate, enhancing its visual appeal and resulting in gorgeous scenes.

combat in mad max is simple yet effective. max’s heavy-hitting punches and the counter system are satisfying, complemented by a fury meter that increases damage output. the system is straightforward but never feels stale, maintaining a powerful impact throughout the game.

beyond it’s compelling main story, the wasteland offers a wealth of optional content. tearing down top dog camps and completing various side missions kept me thoroughly engaged. avalanche studios’ work with the mad max IP is nothing short of extraordinary, surpassing their efforts with the just cause series by a significant margin.

avalanche studios has been relatively quiet since "just cause 4" and "mad max," but their work on this game demonstrates their potential. I would love to see them return to the mad max universe, either with a sequel or another original story set in this world. their craftsmanship deserves recognition, and mad max stands as a testament to what they can achieve.

in conclusion, my review only scratches the surface of what mad max has to offer. avalanche studios created an overlooked gem that deserves more attention. my words can hardly do it justice, experience it for yourself and prepare to be amazed.