Wet (2009) Video Game Review: Tarantino-Inspired Grindhouse Action
In 2009, Bethesda Softworks and developer Artificial Mind and Movement unleashed Wet, an over-the-top, B-movie-inspired third-person shooter that blended acrobatic gunplay with a gritty 1970s cinema aesthetic. Starring the fierce problem-solver Rubi Malone, the game carved out a unique, stylized identity during a console generation dominated by cover shooters.
Developer and Context
Wet was developed by Canadian studio Artificial Mind and Movement, which later rebranded as Behaviour Interactive (now famous for Dead by Daylight). Originally picked up by Sierra Entertainment, the project faced cancellation when Sierra merged with Activision. Luckily, Bethesda Softworks stepped in to publish the game in September 2009.
Contextually, the game was heavily influenced by the resurgence of B-movie cinema in the late 2000s, specifically Quentin Tarantino and Robert Rodriguez's Grindhouse project. It combined high-octane acrobatic combat similar to Max Payne and Devil May Cry with a distinct vintage aesthetic.
Story and Narrative
The story follows Rubi Malone (voiced by Eliza Dushku), a lethal mercenary who specializes in taking care of dirty jobs that nobody else can handle. The narrative begins when Rubi is hired by a wealthy, dying crime lord named William Ackers to retrieve his estranged son from a syndicate in London. However, after completing the assignment, Rubi is double-crossed, launching her into a bloody, globe-trotting mission for revenge.
While the story relies heavily on classic action tropes, it is elevated by a strong voice cast including Alan Cumming and Malcolm McDowell, snappy dialogue, and a fast-paced narrative structure that keeps momentum flowing across 12 chapters.
Graphics, Visual Style, and Audio
Visually, Wet stands out thanks to its commitment to the grindhouse filter. The game features simulated film scratches, cigarette burns, projector stuttering, and rich sepia tones.
- Acrobatic Combat Visuals: Players can slide down ladders, run along walls, slide across floors, and leap through the air while dual-wielding pistols in cinematic slow-motion.
- Ruby's Rage Mode: Specific plot triggers cause blood to splatter across Rubi's face, initiating a stark high-contrast visual style dominated by black, white, and red. In this mode, combat speed and aggression are amplified.
- Psychobilly Soundtrack: The game boasts an exceptional soundtrack featuring psychobilly and punk rock bands like The Horrorpops, Reverend Horton Heat, and Nashville Pussy, which perfectly complements the onscreen violence.
Playable Platforms
Currently, options for playing Wet are limited due to platform availability and licensing restrictions:
- PlayStation 3: Playable via physical Blu-ray disc.
- Xbox 360: Playable via physical DVD disc. (Note: It is not digitally available or backward compatible on Xbox One or Xbox Series X/S.)
- PC: Never received an official PC port.
Final Recommendation
Wet (2009) is a stylish time capsule of late-2000s action gaming. While the platforming elements can feel loose and combat encounters can become repetitive toward the final chapters, the slick presentation, incredible soundtrack, and sheer attitude of Rubi Malone make it an enjoyable ride.
If you own an Xbox 360 or PlayStation 3 and appreciate cult action titles like Stranglehold or No More Heroes, Wet is a fantastic addition to your physical media collection.
