Poker Night 2... review!

Check out the review of this crazy does of... poker at the link:

http://sdgtstudio.blogspot.com/2015/09/poker-night-2-reviewed.html

Shantae and the Pirate's Curse... reviewed!

Fantastic platform adventure that makes me wish there were more of an adventure in Mighty Switch Force games.

If you’re not familiar with the Shantae series, just know that it is a 2D platformer placing you in the role of a charming genie by the name of… Shantae (of course), but this time around you’re a lot less ½ genie.

This game started off a bit too easy in the beginning (for me)… but be warned, if you aren’t prepared, you’ll be sent running back to the drawing board (which is to be expected as you progress, so consider that a “duh”). The story in this game is almost as important as the gameplay… and the developer did a great job making the puzzle fit together. The buildup is great because you aren’t just going in equipped with a slew of abilities; you have to work your way up.

I say that to say… don’t go in expecting to access everything from the beginning, even if something is on an island that you’ve unlocked (and you see it clear as day). You may get caught up on how to access or get something because it’s there, but if it’s out of the reach of your current capabilities… it may be that way for a reason (so don’t question your skills). New abilities are like keys to unlock doors.

The replay value comes into play when you increase your abilities, and you will find progression in the story when this happens… a good chunk of the time. There are games out there where racing from start to finish is the key (and you have the ability to challenge a clock here too), but there will be various objectives required where you may visit an island more than once (just so you know), so you can either dash or appreciate the story. Scuttle Town is home… also doubling as your hub with plenty of nifty little progressive scenarios to enjoy while moving forward so that you aren’t just returning home to interact with NPC’s stuck on repeat. I appreciate that about this game, it gives an RPG’ish feel beyond those of gaining new abilities. EXP isn’t really the thing that brings about new abilities in this game though, unless you consider the gems as a form of EXP. Once enough gems are obtained, you can use them to buy skill enhancements… for certain things, while the others will come with game progression (as mentioned above). Replay value is also found in this game thanks to multiple endings... and an unlockable Pirate-Mode.

**You do have the ability to grind, and it’s easier in some areas than others… if that’s something you’d fancy.**

The artwork and the music in this game… are additional reasons I came back for more, because they got my attention from the beginning and had me looking forward to what I’d see/hear next. Art wise… I can see the team creating a new Metal Slug game, or even a new 2D Sonic the Hedgehog title.

Fun fact: Character portraits were done by Mega Man developer Inti Creates!

If WayForward ever decided to make a 3D version of a Shantae adventure… keeping everything true to the feel of the Shantae series, I think it would be one of those welcomed titles that brings back an interest in 3D platformers (at least the quality ones, and since it would be 3^rd party… it could be enjoyed on more than Nintendo platforms).

Overall, Shantae and the Pirate’s Curse… is a welcomed 2D adventure that gives me not only a welcomed break from multiplayer games, but it also gave me the opportunity to enjoy a cool adventure.

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

"5 / 5 Mushrooms"
PS - I'd recommend the Steam version of this game if you're into their digital trading cards (whether it be collecting, or making money off of them). 

Blue Estate... reviewed!

This is what happens when Comic Awesomeness & Comedy collide with an on-rails shooter… chock full of creativity and naughtiness.

“Viktor Kalvachev’s Blue Estate the game”… is based on a comic by… Viktor Kalvachev & Kosta Yanev. Don’t know who they are? …It’s quite alright, we don’t either, but we hope to see more from team Hesaw because varying styles change up the pace. Following trends is not the way to go, taking your own route and owning the fluff out of it… gives gamers more options to enjoy, and this is what I see in this game.

This isn't a game for everyone (I just want to make that clear)… especially the kids below the recommended age, so put them to bed and game it up. If you like action… want a sense of getting back to the arcade or want to know what it feels like in a sense, then you’re not that far off when you get together with a some of the craziest friends you have playing this on a big screen w/ the surround sound cranked just below… the volume of disturbing the peace!

                                           
The story feels good… the art is great, and it feels like one of those comic style movies that places a (light) gun in your hands as you ride shotgun with a fun motor-mouth narrator sitting in the back seat. Light gun games don’t come around that often, and even with FPS games giving you a similar feel mainly do to the first person view (some almost following a similar blue print in their story modes because they take you by the hand even when they shouldn't because its not on-rails BUT)… light gun games have their own charm when it’s done right. Accuracy and timing pays off as you progress in this game that starts off with you rescuing a stripper/love interest from the dangerous clutches of… someone that’s quite the “little” character and then some (so expect a good mash up in this story). Hesaw definitely sends you walking into an inferno... that maintains its action quite well.

The game is priced very well… they didn't play around with a ridiculous price tag which gets a thumbs up from us (two thumbs up). The game is available for PS4, Xbox One, PC, as well as Leap Motion… for fans of the controller. 

Cons of this game (for me) are… “Why in the world isn't it also on the Wii U?” The Wiimote naturally doubles as a light gun (more on the lines of something you’d see in Star Trek via the phasers… but a light gun none-the-less), so we’d definitely like to know why. The experience would be a lot more at home on the Wii U because of the Wiimote more so than… the Xbox One, and the PS4. The nunchuk would drive home the experience also… because you’re required to do certain movements to overcome various obstacles while still taking on the enemy. It’s a nice move that a lot of other ORS’s don't consider, so you're able to do more than just... point and shoot without it becoming a pain since opening doors and stuff help you move forward.

Another con that stems from the lack of a Wii U version (for me), is when I used the standard controller on the PC… it was a pain because the movement of the camera could’ve still been moved around like that of a traditional FPS game to improve on aiming in this fast paced game. It doesn’t break the game… and I was able to proceed, but… I really (really) got into the zone when I put the controller to the side and got on the keyboard & mouse (while thinking of how awesome it would be to play in a more traditional way on the Wii U because of the Wiimote & Nunchuk... without buying an additional peripheral that would only be used based on the frequency of genre related purchases).

Q&A w/ the team!

______________________________________

Since we wanted to know why Wii U doesn't have the game… and the team was so cool with it, we had the honor of doing a Q&A with them... and the comic book creator:

• How did Team Hesaw and Viktor Kalvachev meet?

VK: I am one of the founders of the company and had the pleasure to welcome everyone on board myself.

• What made you consider doing a game based on the Blue Estate comic?

VK: It was one of my partners who kept pushing to make the comic into a rail shooter and I finally gave up. After a month of brainstorming how to approach it I was pretty happy with the chosen direction and we decided to apply for funding through CNC (a French government organization helping studios in France finance their projects). Luckily we were given the grants and so it began. It was so much fun to transfer the comic book universe into a playable one.

• Why did you decide to go with an on-rails shooter instead of another genre?

VK: We love the genre and we miss the good old games like House of the Dead and Time Crisis. Rail shooters are also a lot cheaper to make then FPS games and we used the controlled camera to give the game a more cinematic feel.

• Any reason why the game isn’t on the Nintendo Wii U? For use with the Wiimotes?

Samuel Jacques : Actually, we are using a Unreal 3.0 for the game engine.

To release the game on WiiU, we should undertake a massive technical work that is simply beyond our capacity.

Some games using Unreal engine have already been released on WiiU like Mass effect 3 or Batman Arkham City (…if i am right) but those projects had resources we can’t spend

I wish we could do a WiiU version as I really love the console.

Regarding the Wiimotes, I strongly advise you to have a look on Blue Estate steam forum. Some people came up with some creative solutions J

• Do you see yourself making more Blue Estate games based on the positive response from gamers?

VK:  We would love to. Only time will tell if will get the chance to make another one or not.

Overall, Hesaw made a good move with the game, by placing it in a genre that's not used too often... the story is fun, plenty of action, and the price... forgeeet about it. Its unfortunate that resources stand in the way of this game being on the Wii U... but who knows what a kickstarter could do if they're willing to try.

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

"4.75 / 5 Mushrooms"

Gunman Clive 2... reviewed!

A pretty good sequel... with enjoyable similarities to other games.

Gunman Clive 2 is an affordable indie game that delivers a 2D platform adventure worth the purchase (if you like such games).

This game feels like a... champloo of 2D action that reminds me of Super Mario Bros 2, Gravity Guy, Donkey Kong Country, and... Star Fox mixed into a nifty little gun slinger. In addition to that, the adventure will cause you to encounter dinosaurs... samurais... owls... a panda bear and plenty of those familiar ducks that are a funny additions of "wtf?". There are other etc. in there that don't have a lot to do with a "western" as many know a western to be... but it's a nifty combination.

This game is a little different from the first, because you aren't trying to rescue the damsel in distress. Your mission this time around is... revenge, to put a permanent stop to the bandits by taking out their leader.

The visuals and animation in this game are great, and even though there could've been a little more dialogue this time around... it doesn't put a wrench in the action. You may notice that there is a bit more color in this one and there are different scenarios that challenge you to approach the gameplay in alternate ways... allowing for a change of pace (even though some may test your patience).

The game's length isn't that long but (there is enough for the price)... there is replay value in both replaying the game at different difficulty settings and playing with one of the other characters (including the Mayor's daughter) and playing to beat previous game completion times.

Some of the characters are easier to progress with than others... to me at least, so try each one to see which fits you best.

The 3D is enjoyable in this game, which is one of the things that sold me on the first title... because the presentation feels like a 2D drawing (with basic cel shade) and the developer used the 3D features well. While audio could be a bit better... in my opinion, but i'm glad that we have the option to turn the music (and overall sound) off if we choose. It's not horrible, the music just isn't my cup of tea.

Overall, this is a cool adventure from an indie developer with welcomed additions that do not take away from the first installment. There are some things I would've liked to see, like dialogue or something that catches the player up to the current adventure... but it doesn't break the game, and its at a great price.


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

"4.5 / 5 Mushrooms"

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

#VVVVVV   #Nicalis   #Nintendo   #3DS   #eShop