Pure Chess… reviewed!

A beautiful… educational… cross-platform chess experience for beginners & experts alike.

What can I say about this game? Well… it’s chess (obviously) with the perfect title, “Pure Chess”. I've never given it (being… chess) the time of day because I didn't understand it… and never invested the time to understand it, until now.

The tutorial is awesome in this game, and explains the ins and outs for each piece on the board, as well as other terms for moves, in addition to do’s and don’ts to avoid certain outcomes. This was a very smart thing to include in the game, or else beginners (like me) wouldn't understand what moves are wise or not and how effective a piece is.

This game delivers chess in a great package that gives you the option to just jump in and challenge the computer in 10 difficulty types… if and when you don't wish to play against another person in offline turn-by-turn matches.

• Monkey

• Novice

• Apprentice

• Thinker

• Challenger

• Expert

• Scholar

• Wizard

• Master

• Grand Master

These various difficulty settings should set you up with enough practice to take on some online opponents with turn-by-turn play (after you've set up an account of course, but that allows for cross platform competition).

Does the cross-platform really standout in this game? Yes... as far as having more people to play with (because it doesn't identify who is challenging you based on the platform they’re using), and I am glad that the developer took this route (because that doesn't matter). You're able to not only play with fellow 3DS owners, but also Nintendo Wii U owners, etc.

You have 6 game-slots available for offline matches, and 6 for online matches (which also has online leaderboards)… so if you want to challenge multiple people or the AI at 6 various difficulty levels, the choice is yours.

I like the music in this game; it’s laid back and fits a game of this pace… well (to me). There is a mixture of Classical, Jazz, Nature, and Chill. I’m not exactly familiar with a genre being called “Chill” and not even “Nature” to be honest… but I understand, and like some other games… if you don’t care for a certain genre or any of them, you can simply turn them off.

One thing I'd add to this game is an online turn notification, so that the button is lit up in green to represent that it’s... your turn. That would remove the need to go in and check to see if it’s your turn or not, which would also keep online competition going steadily versus games being on standby (for who knows how long) because someone forgot.

Something that needs to be fixed (possibly) is the freezing issue that occurs when you close the 3DS (which makes it go to standby mode). If you are like me and at times you play a little of a game here and there due to a busy schedule… or you simply have to do something that requires your attention but you want to pick up where you left off, you don’t want to have to restart your system because it froze. I’ve contacted the developer about this and hope that they try to fix this as soon as possible (I’ve been exiting out of the game before closing my 3DS), but I have tested this multiple times and more often than not it would freeze.

Note: It doesn't get in the way of gameplay while playing because the game doesn't crash during that time; just keep this in mind though if you want to continue your match at a later time since it may not work from standby. Exiting the match is allowed, just hit “Start” then “Save and quit” to continue later, and then just go back to your main 3DS home screen until this problem is patched.

The chess board, pieces, and scenery (though a bit on the blurred side) are a nice combination that may pull someone in just to enjoy what they've done with this 3DS version visually. I found myself seldom looking at the top screen but I would force myself to make a move and then look up to see it in action.

The Pure Store has some nice Chess sets in it too, some with just the pieces only, some with a different background included.

The ones they currently have available are:

Forest Game Pack | $2.69

Park Game Pack | $2.69

Temple Game Pack | $2.69

Easter Island Chess Set | $1.65

Battalion Chess Set | $1.65

Halloween Chess Set | $1.65 (I really like this set.)

It would've been cool if these were added in for free as unlockables… but it doesn't subtract from the experience.

The game also has a chess challenges mode that consists of bonus games and tournaments.

• Bonus games present you with various match scenarios that challenge you to complete a match in 1 checkmate, while others challenge you to checkmate in 2 - 5 moves to successfully win a checkmate (for a total of 100 challenges).

• Tournament on the other hand... challenges you to take on the AI in 3 different tournaments (Beginners, Challengers, Masters) and also adds an additional element because they have leaderboards for each tournament allowing you to challenge others from around the world to complete these tournaments in the fastest times possible (which also lists times completed).

If you've decided to click on that gold icon after any match to save replay data, you will be able to save it in "My Profile", which has 50 available slots to record plenty of wins (that replay move by move).

In profile, you will also find your "Stats", and it looks pretty extensive to me... because it records for AI matches in addition to the others, your total moves, captured pieces, checks, wins, loses, etc. So anyone that's into that sort of stuff... should be pleased (I guess), because they appear to take the experience they offer… quite seriously. Some may wonder where the progression is in this type of game, but the progression is in your stats and improving your rankings, so keep that in mind if you like games that allow you to move forward (because it may appear as if you're just playing matches, so don't forget about that factor).

Price wise… it’s in a range that I think works (because it’s an extensive experience with lots to offer as far as competition is concerned), but I feel that it would appeal a lot more to beginners at $4.99 for the sake of them giving it a chance. I will say though that if someone likes Chess or wants to get into it, it’s a very nice purchase and gives you the chance to enjoy it more often than you would traditionally… keeping in mind that traditionally you’d have to go seek someone to challenge in person (though that’s not a bad thing) whereas this game delivers challengers from around the world.

Thumbs up to the developer, I always like when a developer targets authenticity in a game they want to turn into a close to realistic experience... and they hit the mark. Overall, it’s a very nice experience that taught me how to understand Chess, and now I’m more likely to jump into a match here and there. I haven't loss against the PC yet, but you won't find me entering into any local or national competitions any time soon... (seriously though) this game does give you a great tool to prepare for such things. :p

Fun factor: 4
Visually: 5
Replay value: 5
Price: 4

"4.5 / 5 Mushrooms"

You can get more on the game here:

http://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/zZqYU6OFeUQkXgzTs25weDO-lEvgmQ50

The Walking Dead: Season 2... reviewed!

This is a game full of shoulda, couldas and wouldas... but the great part is, you have the option of actually going back to experience them.

This game's story is great... but it needs to be, because it's the necessary base that all other elements stand upon. The game's story is also stressful, and highly emotional for some based on the connections made with select characters. Making decisions is where the primary challenges hit you in this game, you have to think quick on your feet and make sure decisions don't comeback to haunt you in a game where consequence usually spell d-e-a-t-h. [Insert scream here!] 

This game fits into a special category of titles that have a good enough story and progression track to the point that it attracts some gamers and non-gamers to sit in on a play through (if not all of them). It almost becomes movie night... with the metaphorical steering wheel being placed in your hands (to drive the story), but don't be surprised if you end up with a few self-appointed backseat drivers.

If I could have one request considered, it would be... to have more choices and outcomes, based on how i'd like to see the story go even more my way... but that's not completely what its about since things are supposed to happen beyond our control for the sake of challenges that occur in the situations presented. 

I really enjoyed Season 1, and Season 2 presents the road ahead for all those willing to take a ride full of twists and turns... its all apart of the story that doesn't stick to the same scenarios, so the changes are a good thing for the sake of building a substantial story driven adventure across multiple seasons, and I can respect that (its smart progression)... regardless of what happens in the story. Season 2 takes the baton handed off by Season 1, and doesn't drop it... I greatly appreciate that because some games have you wondering what happened to the story. The first episode of this season starts off pretty good and I look forward to the others as they're released periodically throughout 2014 (episode 2 is currently available).

There are plenty of action screens to challenge you throughout this game (via designated commands) though decisions are the primary factor... but if TellTale Games decides to release this series on the Wii U and (possibly) the 3DS, a new control scheme (option) would be great. Don't worry... i'll explain. 

Could controls be any better for this game on current platforms? Yes... but that's what future installments are for. In the now, I think this game is perfect for a touch-screen experience, with physical controls as a secondary option (for the platforms with such an option). This is based on the variety of options that can come with increasing the complexity of gameplay through the UI and required interactions. Controllers work, but i'd see myself preferring a 3DS Circle pad + touch screen or a Wii U analog stick + touch screen set up. The 3D feature of the 3DS would really enhance the experience even more... in my opinion.

Now that I think of it... the Wiimote & Nunchuk could be pretty good also, because you need to shoot zombies, hit them, stab them, etc. So a control scheme for that... would be pretty cool too, but only as an extra option because not everyone is willing or able to move their arms around for the sake of playing a game. Maybe Nintendo-Demand can provide consultations or something. Hehehe 

This affordable award winning title can be enjoyed by players of various skill levels (including casual gamers), and if the survival horror genre is one your faves... or you'd like a change of pace game, give this one a whirl.

Note: It's good to start with Season 1, followed by 400 Days... if you want the current story to be based on your past decisions. You will be presented with different scenarios in Season 2 though, so you can start over based on which one you like best, though it wouldn't be the one that you created.

The replay value comes into play based on all the scenarios and results you can end up with, I can't go into detail (no spoilers here), but your words are about as loud as your actions. Keep that in mind.

Value is in your face at $5 per episode, this gives gamers with little (financially)... the ability to enjoy something they like (if they're able to afford it at that price) and I give props to TellTale Games for doing this so that plenty of people can enjoy the games. It's priced right, the story is good, and you don't deliver everything at once, so we have time to enjoy the story/investment over time. Season 2 doesn't slow down the story either, and there are plenty of surprises thrown in there (so avoid spoilers at all costs) as you make your way through another adventure in the world of... The Walking Dead.

Fun factor: 4
Visually: 5
Replay value: 5
Price: 5

"4.5 / 5 Mushrooms"

You can get more on the game here: http://www.telltalegames.com/walkingdead/

The Mysterious Cities of Gold: Secret Paths... reviewed!

Before I played this game, I was hopeful for a feel similar to "ICO", keeping in mind that it would have its own story and custom feel. Though it didn't turn out like that, I like the experience that I did receive from this game.

One of the most interesting things to me about this action adventure game... are its cut-scenes. They follow the 2nd season of the TV show, and I looked forward to progressing because of them. The thing I would suggest the next time around (when it comes to these scenes though), is to try and recreate the scenes for the game and allow for it to lead into the stage smoothly... or at least avoid presenting in a way that cuts them abruptly.

Once the stages begin, you're basically solving puzzles to progress and complete the areas. The replay value is factored in based on the optional stage challenges, that include racing against the clock to complete a level in a set amount of time, finding chests, collecting all stage parchments, and avoiding capture a set amount of times. If you aren't successful the first time, or you're simply not pleased with your completion time... try try again.

Beyond the story, the music quality is pretty good, as well as the animations (I really like the way the characters move; especially Tao)... and I could really picture a AAA release on the Wii U. It wouldn't have to abandon certain puzzle elements (those are part of what makes this experience unique), but to have an even bigger adventure element in a 3rd person title (with charm kinda sorta like "ICO")... would be pretty cool.



The 3DS version of this game honestly began as a frustrating experience... due to the touchscreen controls. Character control really wasn't as smooth as it could've been (with the touchscreen... for me at least), and at times I found myself tapping one area of the screen to avoid an enemy, but instead of going around a rock or a set of plants in the desired direction... the character would go the other route and i'd be caught.

Not only that, dialog appears on the screen... and the only way to close it is to tap the screen (with that control option). If the characters react to every tap of the screen... even when you're trying to avoid an enemy, you have to make sure that you tap on a safe part of the screen to close the dialog out (or else... you're caught). While hiding in bushes or containers and dialog pops up... you're good as caught (if the baddies are around) because the characters will hop out as soon as the screen receives contact.

I began enjoying the game a lot more... after switching to the circle pad & buttons, because there weren't problems getting in the way. The responsiveness felt a lot more immediate when swapping between characters (I noticed this almost immediately), and I didn't have to worry about being involuntarily caught.

Tip: No matter your preferred way to control this game, utilize the first level to get familiar with the feel and then restart the level.


The developer had the perfect opportunity to set the 3DS version apart from the others by giving us 3D capability. I would've liked to see the cut-scenes play out in 3D, and there are certain elements from the in-game action that would've allowed for the 3D to shine. If another installment is made, I hope this is considered... but I will say that it doesn't ruin the experience for me.

As far as the price is concerned, it works at $14.99... but it would be great at $9.99. Overall, its a nice adventure i'd call an action-adventure-puzzle hybrid, and though 3D should be added for the sake of setting the 3DS version apart... i'd like to see them follow this up with a sequel.

Fun factor: 3
Visually: 5
Replay value: 5
Price: 4

"4 / 5 Mushrooms"

You can find the game here: http://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/si96W4NP9h74FPNPV6iDgnD1w4-1GA6-

 

Sakura Samurai: Art of the Sword... reviewed!

I was curious about this game, wondering how much content was actually packed in it. I was pleasantly surprised since it can be a bit of a coin toss with smaller games. This game does a beautiful job of delivering nifty visuals, game play, and replay value in a fun little package.

Once the game has been accessed, you are greeted by a beautiful start screen that leads you into an impressive experience. I really like the way they set up the prologue, though it would've been cool to see a cut scene bring the player in, they've used a very creative and minimalist way to tell the back story instead... sort of reminds me of a pop-up book. As far as cut scenes are concerned, you will experience those in various parts of the adventure.

The story is a bit cliche in my opinion, the princess gets taken by the bad guy, and you have to go on a journey to save her. Hmmm… where have I seen this before? It’s not exactly new, but I didn't mind it at all because it’s not bad and doesn't take away from the game play.
This game uses the 3D feature quite well, and I’d expect no less from Nintendo. They position the samurai on the screen in a way that’s justified without the character getting in the way. Fans of Kendo (Japanese sword fighting) will really be able to appreciate the fact that you’re rewarded for precision in this game, it’s not a hack & slash adventure. You have to put thought into your attacks, dodging, blocks, and how you use your items. The better your strategy, the more you’re able to preserve your items until you absolutely need them. Ever watch a movie with a samurai taking on several enemies that attack one by one? That’s sort of how battle feels at times (which is cool), and this is the way you may prefer it to remain. Position yourself in a bad spot, and you might end up paying for it with back to back attacks from multiple enemies.

In regards to the precision, you build up points (precision points to be exact) every time you successfully evade an attack, and the total number of collected points are able to be traded for coins at village shops. If you aren't that good at dodging, you may want to cash in the points that you've collected, because they are literally on an easy come easy go basis. If you successfully dodge an attack, you’re rewarded, but if you get hit or time an attack too late and it’s blocked… kiss those points goodbye.
Speaking of villages, I assumed that there was going to be various types of people to interact with in each village, until I noticed that everyone in each village looks exactly the same and serves the exact same purposes. In villages, you get the option of saving your progress, going to the sword smith to forge and sharpen your sword, buying items at the shop, playing mini games, etc. 

Boss battles feel good, look good, and will prove to be challenging enough, especially the second time around. Why? Well, after beating the game for the first time, the game’s difficulty level will be increased to expert mode (just select “continue” to experience it). Enemy attack strength is doubled, and you really can’t afford to make mistakes in battle this time around because you won’t receive additional petals to increase your health capacity (though beating the game won’t change the game play, it’s a bit more unforgiving). Castle’s require you to take on a slew of enemies as you make your way to the boss, so I really looked forward to this in expert mode.

Keep in mind that this game is not following in the footsteps of action games, and every game won’t be the same (which is the great thing about variety). Is the game worth the purchase price? Yep, though I feel that it would be perfect at $4.99 USD… they have delivered a nice experience that wouldn't be regretted at the current price of $6.99 USD.


Fun factor: 4
Visuals: 4
Replay value: 5
Price: 4

“4.5 / 5 Mushrooms”

You can find the game here: http://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/Dzb_C6ViEXIHAWfDvi7BsDPQ7JIwcrfC

#Nintendo   #eShop   #SakuraSamurai   #ArtoftheSword 

Tokyo Crash Mobs... reviewed!

This fast paced puzzle game is a funny break from the norm (my norm at least), bringing two main characters named “Grace” & “Savannah”… along with scenesters, ninja, spaceships, etc.

These characters take on different roles, but both involve matching people according to the color of their clothing (or umbrellas) and they look good doing it (in 3D). Grace throws people, while Savannah rolls them, and while I didn't mind rolling for the most part… the throwing was a bit on the annoying side. It may have something to do with my experience playing games like Zuma, but the throwing really didn't feel that comfortable to me and felt like it got in the way of gameplay at times (especially when the speed picked up).

There are two different play modes in this game, Story Mode & Challenge Mode. So beyond the adventure, you are able to play a type of survival mode and if you want to check out some of the interesting cut-scenes from your adventure… you have the option to do so in Movie Maze.

I like that both characters have different objectives to go after in the game (and then some), because it adds to the variety that prevents the game from taking the repetitious route. There are items thrown in that help you take on the crowd (i.e. bomb balls, and space ships), and when things begin to get hectic… they really come in handy as you fight (using Grace) to gain access to stores or prevent scenesters from touching a red button (using Savannah).

I think this game is a nifty color matching experience overall, and has an arcade feel with the combo points you are able to obtain to boost your score. It’s cool to see the women pop up on the screen in the foreground to cheer on an awesome combo (sort of reminds me of Mortal Kombat), and the boss battles are a weird plus for me.

I found the line layout on the lower screen somewhat helpful, but not as much as it could’ve been (since there could've been colors that represent the people on the lower screen). I will say though that such a helpful feature may have made the game a cakewalk for some (but the option could’ve been available for others).

Price wise, I feel that this game should be priced at $4.99; I just feel that it would be a lot more appealing at that price point. If you enjoy these types of games, and want a change of pace... definitely consider Tokyo Crash Mobs (which at the time of this review... is listed for $6.99).

Fun factor: 3.5
Visually: 4
Replay value: 3.5
Price: 3.5

“3.5 / 5 Mushrooms”

You can find the game here: http://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/pk6mvGWK3AuJe3PNM0nQdDLc0tv8yBgi

#TokyoCrashMobs   #Nintendo   #3DS   #eShop   #Review

SENRAN KAGURA Burst...reviewed!

Feels like… a blast from the past, and I do mean blast because the game rocks.

The game feels like one of those PS1 or PS2 Japanese imports that I always wanted to get my hands on, and was finally able to because a friend was nice enough to get it for me during a rare trip.

You have multiple characters to choose from in this all girl roster, as you take on missions from two different story-lines. The enemy may either be evil doers (from the perspective of “The girls of Hanzō) or targets (from the perspective of “The girls of Hebijo”), and fighting styles vary… from the more serious to the super wacky and cute (yes I said “cute”). The variety of fighters is welcome and allows you to choose your favorite(s) based on feel, personality, and/or look.

Most missions allow you to go back and play them with a different character, even if they were initially set up for a certain character and the story-line, though some don’t feel like they’re progressing the story beyond showcasing a day in the life of the characters. You are basically progressing through a playable anime in this game, which should definitely gain the attention of some anime fans (like myself)… especially fans of the “Senran Kagura” TV show. No need to worry about the game starting you off in a later part of the story either, I took some time to check out a few of the episodes (and though it doesn't mimic the anime story for story from what I see) you are just starting out so things are fresh allowing you to step into their lives before they become the awesome shinobi you transform them into (by building up skills, etc.)

Non-Anime fans should be able to enjoy the game also because of the game-play, which feels like a cross between a fighting game (with a set fighting area) and a side scrolling beat em’ up. You’re able to obtain items during levels, rack up combos, juggle attacks and keep the chain going based on the amount of available enemies in the area. After completing a mission you will level up (if you've gained enough Exp), and will unlock things like new moves, clothing, accessories for your characters, etc. Progression also unlocks movies, music, and pics.

You receive individual character rankings for each mission based on:

-Enemies Defeated 
-Highest Combo (my highest so far is 1500+ w/ “Asuka”… so you can really stack up combos if you try and they build up meter for Ninja Arts.)
-Ninja Arts Used
-Time Elapsed
-Exp.

They've done a really good job with the presentation in this game, the animations are all around good, fighting feels smooth, and if Marvelous SQL/XSeed can bring us a game like this… why in the heck won’t Capcom deliver games like the “Rival Schools” series? It’s cool though, this game has better visuals than the Rival Schools PS1 game (but it’s still something I’d like to see and it can be updated; perhaps they can work together to make it happen one of these days).

What’s funny is that, the anime TV show (Senran Kagura) is based on a character named “Asuka” and her (4) friends who attend a secret Hanzō Academy that trains young women in the art of Ninjitsu. There is also a rival school called the “Hibi Girls Academy” that trains their students with a different moral philosophy, so this will obviously lead to a clash of outlooks, and actually made me think of Capcom’s IP.
  
Speaking of visuals, I really like what they did with the 3D capabilities here, the Shinobi transformations look sweet, the Secret Ninja Arts animations are awesome, victory animations and even the ones where you’re getting your butt handed to you… look cool. Some people may enjoy this even more so considering the fact that your clothes get torn off based on the level of damage you take (which reveals just enjoy to avoid a Mature ESRB rating), but the game holds its own regardless of its sexy features. If you dislike sexiness in games, don’t get the game only to complain about it… that would make no sense, but those that could care less based on a game being good (or really like the sexiness), you may want to grab this game. The moves of the characters aren't stiff animations either (trust me) they are quite smooth and the attack sequences are animated well and also look good.

Yin & Yang Attributes: 
I thought this was an interesting addition to the game, which gains you the use of one (Yin) and/or the other (Yang) once you've gained enough affinity to awaken them. They are activated once you perform a Shinobi Transformation or go into Frantic mode and I've noticed the ability to juggle air combos even longer with the Yang attribute. You will unlock something pretty cool when you fill up these meters, but I will let you experience that for yourself (no spoilers here... sorry).

Cons: 
You can’t block attacks. This doesn't destroy the game at all, but it really makes no sense to lack such an essential part of martial-arts in a game with such a focus on them, even if you were able to parry instead of blocking… that would suffice if it were there. Approaching or having enemies approach and they are able to land successful attacks even if you would block if you could… sucks, especially when you want to build up a combo or simply want to avoid being hit… BUT when considering the number buttons and triggers available on the 3DS, I can understand something having to be left out (but just like with techniques and other features like the “Dressing room”… there could have been a button combo that allowed for blocking to be implemented). Overall it hasn't stopped me from enjoying the game at all.

I can’t call this a pro or a con (personally), but the dialogue in some areas can be rather long. Thinking of the experience and what they are contributing to the story-line, I’m not mad at this, it feels like you’re sitting down to read a manga comic that contains voice overs. This one particular area didn't have any character animation beyond some background art and a few images representing scenes explained in the dialogue. You aren't stuck reading dialogue though, you have the option of skipping this and other dialogue areas before and after game-play. I will say though that if you've spent money on it… might as well get your worth out of it (especially the fans). 


Suggestion for a later installment:
Coming from a fighting game perspective (where technique is a major factor)… it would be cool if they provide us with another “Senran Kagura” game that adds additional techniques. I’d like to see blocking and/or parrying with fewer enemies on the screen to enjoy techniques not only from the characters in the playable roster, but also the opposition to boost the challenge.

Overall, I really enjoy this game and have been getting a lot of play time out of it (the replay value is strong and you are able to play the same level with the same character for the purpose of completing two different objective types). The game has a lot of content to offer, which includes unlockables, lots of missions (around 70), costumes, etc. and I think that the price is about right. (A lower price is always welcome… but at $29.99 I can’t complain in the least.)

Also, this game reminds me of past gens (and most Nintendo games) because 100% of the content is available in the game, you don't have to buy DLC packs for costumes and accessories.


Fun factor: 4
Visually: 5
Replay value: 5
Price: 4

"4.5 / 5 Mushrooms"

More info here: http://hanzonationalacademy.com/


#SenranKaguraBurst   #NintendoEshop   #3DS   #Anime   #XSeed  #MarvelousSQL  

Dillon's Rolling Western... reviewed!

Dillon’s Rolling Western… is the first installment really worth buying, even if there is a sequel? …Yes.

When I initially played this game (I’d call a “Tower defense action RPG”), I thought that the main character and enemies were a bit on the stiff side. In my defense… they are, but it isn't in a way that slows the game down (aka game play is smooth, especially in battle). The game looks good to, they did a great job with the visuals… including the 3d feature (and it shows when rolling through the battlegrounds) which should always look great when it comes to first party titles like this. 

Control wise… you get familiar with the controls after a while (circle pad + touch screen), the game play becomes a bit more enjoyable once this happens. It doesn't exactly decrease the panic you might feel as the enemies get closer to the target, but the more you learn how to adapt in bad situations… the better off you will be.

Tip: Go into the Saloon and practice (practice… practice), because timed attacks and techniques go a long way, especially when time is of the essence. Time is always a factor anyway… so keep that in mind, this will allow you to set up a defensive strategy and prepare yourself for attacks and decrease the time it takes to save a town.

The art style definitely feels like a team that worked on a 3D Zelda game, and when exploring the ruins, I totally thought… “Zelda” (again) based on what happens… without following in its footsteps. The little side missions add to the replay value, along with the rating system, etc. Based on money earned… you may be tempted to go back and play a level again so that you have more money to mount up an even greater defense the second time around. They catch you buy surprise in the game as well, but I will leave that discovery for you to enjoy.

I also feel that a Wii U version would do well, make it affordable and go all out on the visuals (no reason not to) while maintaining the game play and it should sell well. I’d give the option of using the gamepad touch screen and analog stick, or simply the analog sticks because you can move the right stick with your thumb similar to what you would have to do on the 3DS (and I think it would be even more comfortable and take even less time to adjust to… at least for me).

The western theme is maintained throughout the game; even though the enemies and their dens aren't exactly something I’d consider… “Western”, they didn't feel out of place. I enjoy stacking up combos, and will even allow bigger enemies to survive even longer when they produce smaller enemies, because you gain even more money based on the combo count (Ca-ching!).

Speaking of money… price wise, I’d say the game would be better in the $6.99 - $7.99 range, but $9.99 isn't bad and would gain two thumbs up if there were a few more towns. Based on the content in the game, you may find yourself shrugging off the price because it is an overall good (solid) game you’re able to play more than just a few times.

Fun factor: 5
Visually: 5
Replay value: 4
Price: 3

“4 / 5 Mushrooms”

You can find the game here: http://dillonsrollingwestern.nintendo.com/1/

#Nintendo   #3DS   #eShop   #DillonsRollingWestern   #Zelda  #GameReview  

VVVVVV... reviewed!

VVVVVV is simple, interesting, and full of frustration… wrapped in one addictive package.

You are the captain of a ship, something happens, your crew members get separated and you have to rescue them. The game has a decent little story, but the fun comes from what feels like a developer’s challenge to on comers willing to go through h-e-double hockey sticks for glory.

There are a ton of challenges from one area of this game to the next, and it doesn’t take long to encounter another that requires concentration. Some areas will frustrate you more than others, and may require you to retry them over and over again, and some may give up on collecting trinkets because of it. The beauty is in the challenge though, but you can pat yourself on the back if you complete this game by 90 – 100%.

Visually it has an 8-bit look, and there is the 3D added into this version (which doesn’t make or break the game for me personally). The visuals aren’t really what caught my attention, the challenges are what interests me, but I must say admit… this game is not for everyone (and I’d be lying if I said it was) because it would be a waste of money getting a game that you don’t want to play based on the level of difficulty. There is an option to be invincible, and you can also play in a slower speed if you want to try it anyway (thumbs up to those that do), but I’d understand if you aren't willing to make that move.

There are quite a few areas in the game, including player levels, but I wish the game allowed for players to make custom levels on the 3DS to share via QR codes. Either way it’s a very nifty game that will challenge you, the music has a retro modern sound to it and overcoming challenges can be quite rewarding.

Price wise, I’d say that the game could’ve been released for $4.99 instead. It would appeal a lot more on that note and give gamers seeking challenges (via affordable games), the option of enjoying one that I’d recommend for some of the more hardcore gamers out there. I know a few that I’d love to see take this game on because they swear that they are just the best at everything.

Fun factor: 4
Visually: 3
Replay value: 5
Price: 3

“3.5 / 5 Mushrooms”

Check out the game here: 
http://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/pbYF4tOod03oE7GLsEsXMnr5k0nFg-_3

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