Summary
- Release Year: 2006
- Genres: Adventure
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 2, PlayStation 4
- Developers: Rockstar New England, Rockstar Vancouver
- Publishers: Rockstar Games, Take-Two Interactive
Bully (2006): A Nostalgic Return to the Schoolyard
Introduction
Released in 2006, Bully is an open-world action-adventure game developed by Rockstar Vancouver and published by Rockstar Games. The game follows the story of Jimmy Hopkins, a 15-year-old juvenile delinquent who is sent to Bullworth Academy, a corrupt and crumbling prep school. As Jimmy, players must navigate the treacherous social hierarchy of the school, stand up to bullies, pull pranks, and ultimately learn to survive in this hostile environment.
Gameplay
Bully is played from a third-person perspective, and the game world is fully explorable. Players can attend classes, interact with other students and faculty, and participate in a variety of extracurricular activities. The game features a mission-based structure, with players completing tasks to progress the story.
Combat is a major part of Bully, and players can engage in fistfights, use weapons, and even ride bicycles to attack their opponents. The game also features a variety of mini-games, such as go-kart racing, boxing, and dodgeball.
Setting
Bullworth Academy is a boarding school located in the fictional town of Bullworth, New England. The school is divided into several cliques, including the Preppies, the Jocks, the Greasers, and the Nerds. Each clique has its own unique hangout spot and set of rules.
The school is also home to a number of adult characters, including teachers, administrators, and parents. These characters play a variety of roles in the game, and players must interact with them in order to progress.
Characters
- Jimmy Hopkins: The protagonist of the game, Jimmy is a 15-year-old juvenile delinquent who is sent to Bullworth Academy after being expelled from several other schools. Jimmy is a rebellious and impulsive character, but he also has a good heart.
- Gary Smith: The main antagonist of the game, Gary is a sociopathic bully who terrorizes the students of Bullworth Academy. Gary is a master manipulator, and he uses his intelligence to get what he wants.
- Petey: Jimmy’s best friend, Petey is a kind and loyal nerd who is often picked on by bullies. Petey is a valuable ally to Jimmy, and he helps him to survive at Bullworth Academy.
- Zoe Taylor: The love interest of the game, Zoe is a beautiful and popular cheerleader who is dating Chad, the leader of the Jocks. Jimmy falls in love with Zoe, but he must overcome Chad’s jealousy in order to win her heart.
Themes
Bully explores a number of themes, including bullying, friendship, and redemption. The game shows how bullying can have a devastating impact on its victims, and it also highlights the importance of standing up to bullies. The game also shows how friendship can help people to overcome adversity, and it offers a message of hope for those who are struggling.
Reception
Bully was met with critical acclaim upon release. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, its well-developed characters, and its mature themes. Bully was also a commercial success, selling over 1.5 million copies worldwide.
Legacy
Bully is considered to be one of the best video games of its generation. The game has been praised for its realism, its humor, and its emotional depth. Bully has also been credited with helping to raise awareness of the issue of bullying.
Conclusion
Bully is a classic video game that offers a unique and unforgettable experience. The game’s exploration of mature themes, its well-developed characters, and its innovative gameplay make it a must-play for fans of action-adventure games.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
