Twisted Metal vs Twisted Metal III
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Twisted Metal is a vehicle combat video game developed by Eat Sleep Play and published by Sony Computer Entertainment for the PlayStation 3. This 2012 reboot emphasizes multiplayer battles, offering split‑screen and online modes that pit up to 16 players against each other in chaotic arena combat. The game introduces the Nuke Mode, where teams of four factions battle to destroy a floating statue by sacrificing the opposing leader to a missile launcher. With a blend of shooter, racing, action, thriller, and comedy elements, Twisted Metal delivers fast‑paced, destructive fun for mature audiences.
Twisted Metal III is a 1998 vehicular combat game for the PlayStation where players drive armed vehicles in arena battles, aiming to destroy opponents and survive each round. The tournament is hosted by the mysterious Calypso, who grants a twisted wish to the winner. The sequel introduces new characters, fresh arenas, and a redesigned physics engine under the direction of 989 Studios. While it retains the series' chaotic combat, it received mixed reviews due to control changes and design shifts.
- Deep multiplayer modes with both split‑screen and online options
- Innovative Nuke Mode adds strategic depth
- Varied factions provide distinct playstyles
- Mature humor and intense combat appeal to core gamers
- Wide selection of new characters and vehicles
- Varied arena designs with interactive elements
- Local multiplayer supports up to four players
- Distinct wish mechanic adds narrative twist
- Limited to PlayStation 3, no modern console support
- Online community has dwindled since launch
- Learning curve for vehicle controls can be steep
- Control scheme felt clunky to many players
- Physics changes received mixed reactions
- Limited to original PlayStation hardware
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to Twisted Metal
View all →Alternatives to Twisted Metal III
View all →The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataTwisted Metal (2012) offers richer multiplayer, higher critical praise, and modern console support at a higher price, while Twisted Metal III (1998) is a cheaper, classic‑era single‑player‑focused title with limited hardware.
Key differences
- •Multiplayer scope: B supports up to 16 online players; A only split‑screen up to 4.
- •Critical reception: B scored 81/100 vs A's 60/100.
- •Platform: B runs exclusively on PlayStation 3; A is limited to original PlayStation.
- •Price: B costs $59.99, A $49.99.
- •Content era: B offers modern reimagined arenas and four factions; A provides original 1998 arenas and a wish mechanic.
Gameplay & fun factor
B adds online modes, Nuke Mode, and faction diversity, giving deeper combat experiences.
Platform availability
A runs on the original PlayStation, which may be more accessible for retro hardware owners.
Price & value
A is $10 cheaper and still offers local multiplayer and a full campaign.
Multiplayer / co‑op
B supports both split‑screen and up to 16‑player online, far surpassing A's local‑only split‑screen.
Content & replayability
B includes multiple factions, Nuke Mode, and reimagined arenas, providing more varied replay loops.
Difficulty & accessibility
A's simpler controls and single‑player focus may be easier for newcomers than B's steep learning curve.
Graphics & performance
B runs on PlayStation 3 with modern graphics; A is limited to 1998 hardware.
Choose Twisted Metal if…
Buyers wanting modern graphics, deep multiplayer, and higher critical quality on PlayStation 3.
Choose Twisted Metal III if…
Buyers seeking a low‑cost retro experience on original PlayStation hardware.
Common questions
Which game offers online multiplayer?
Twisted Metal (2012) supports up to 16 players online; Twisted Metal III only supports local split‑screen.
Is the higher price of Twisted Metal justified?
It costs $59.99 versus $49.99 and provides modern graphics, online modes, and an 81/100 critic score.
Can I play either game on current consoles?
Both are limited to older hardware: Twisted Metal III to the original PlayStation, Twisted Metal to PlayStation 3.






