On February 28, another leak of Rockstar documents occurred. This time, data appeared online that is related to the level design of a specific area in Manhunt and the gang that we could meet there. They are dated 2000, while the game itself was released in 2003. We studied the leaked information and are ready to tell you about the original plans of the developers.
Manhunt in a nutshell
Manhunt is a stealth action game developed by Rockstar North. The game is remembered for its brutal scenes — in it, you can kill opponents in the most bloody ways. An ordinary bat or a plastic bag opens up opportunities for brutal reprisals. But the main character's arsenal includes pruning shears, axes, metal pliers and much more.
The game takes place in the creepy slums of Carcer City, which themselves look ominous. In addition, what is happening is stylized as snuff films. This is what they call videos of real torture and murder.
Photographs used as the basis for game locations
Most of the document is photographs of city streets. Among them are both the city center and clearly disadvantaged areas where you definitely don't want to end up. Later, they became the basis for game locations. And we're not just talking about Manhunt.
Some of the shots look like they were inspired by them when designing Liberty City from GTA 3. It's quite possible that this is the case. The document was compiled in 2000, a year before the release of the third Grand Theft Auto.
Note that some of the renders from the leaked document appeared online back in 2011. They were published by Craig Moore, a former Rockstar North artist.
Bowery, the dirtiest area of the city
The description says that Manhunt is supposed to start in an area called Bowery. This is the dirtiest part of the city. Broken bottles and syringes are scattered everywhere, the buildings are shabby, neon signs are broken, and the back alleys smell strongly of urine. The inhabitants of the streets are appropriate — people with problems with alcohol and substances, as well as small-time gangsters. Most of the buildings are abandoned, only shops selling liquor and adult videos, as well as nightclubs are open.
The cops prefer to bypass this area, so you shouldn't expect their help. Even the local police station is abandoned — thugs have settled on its territory.
Hoods, the first gang that the main character encounters
The appearance of the Hoods gang punks refers to the style of 90s hip-hop artists. They are the ones who control the streets of the Boeurie district. These gangsters wear shapeless hoodies and pants that are several sizes too big. And thanks to the hoods, their faces are difficult to see. They carry knives and bats as weapons, but some also have firearms. The organization consists of representatives of different nationalities, including whites, blacks, and Mexicans. It maintains a strict hierarchy between individual fighters.
The Hoods behave boldly and cheekily, but at the same time they carefully watch their finger spreading. This is the name for the characteristic hand gestures that are unique to each gang. Moreover, the player can also use this mechanic for communication.
The leader of the Hoods gang is Skullfaze, also known as Bone D
The description says that Skullfaze has a peculiar mask painted on his face that looks like a skull. He is the leader of the Hoods, and was supposed to act as a boss in the game. The man is physically much stronger than the main character of Manhunt, so it is worth using firearms against him.
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Have you played Manhunt? Which part did you like more, the first or the second? Share your opinions in the comments!