Atlus really knows how to keep their audiences happy. Whether it’s by releasing quirky RPGs, innovative titles with engaging stories, or simply by providing extras with game releases, they have got us pegged. Sometimes, this includes publishing relics that deserve a second chance at reaching audiences. Though some games truly merit re-releases over the years, there always seem to be a few that can’t quite hack the transition from late eighties to the present day. Unfortunately, Legacy of Ys: Books I & II falls into this category. Having been unveiled to the public nearly two decades ago, Ys was in fact a tour-de-force for its time. However, the years have been unkind to what was an entrancing adventure all those years ago. This is the case with many classics, and the basis for so many unfounded “X is overrated” arguments. In the right mindset, Legacy of Ys: Books I & II can net you some quality entertainment, but only if you’re ready to invest a lot of time and patience.
Archive for March, 2009
Review: Legacy of Ys: Books I & II
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Impressions: Ninja Blade Demo
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Ninja Blade has been on my radar for several months now. Some have labeled it a direct ripoff of games such as God of War or any other normal hack-and-slash title, and they’d be correct. However, I’m the kind of person who will give anything an honest chance, and how can you do too much wrong with ninjas, gore, and action? Er, don’t answer that – I’ve played Nightshade. Though Ninja Blade’s demo isn’t set to appear to the public until March 7th, I was given the opportunity to taste the carnage a few days early. Does it live up to what positive hype it’s gotten? The demo did indeed showcase a gripping performance, but left me aching a bit for hack-and-slash done right. It’s still relatively unclear how the full game will measure up to the demo, but what was presented should delight fans of the genre.
Review: Banjo Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts
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For a long time, gamers mourned the apparent death of the Banjo Kazooie series. Then, one shining day, Rare announced a return to the franchise with Banjo Kazooie: Nuts and Bolts. Fans of the series rejoiced in collective glee – more of the Banjo we knew and loved! Except, this wasn’t the Banjo we knew and loved. No, Nuts and Bolts has taken a completely different approach, now that platformers seem to have gone the way of the dinosaur, at least in the mainstream gaming scene. What has emerged is a workable, enjoyable adventure, as long as you’re not expecting a game anywhere near reminiscent of Banjo Kazooie’s past.
Review: Puzzle Quest Galactrix
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For fans of puzzlers and casual games, the original Puzzle Quest was a godsend. Combining the convenience of take-along gaming, Bejeweled-like imagery, and an intriguing medieval tale, it provided hours of satisfying role-playing goodness. Even the most discerning fans of the genre were pleased by its slick presentation, innovative controls, and challenging difficulty curve. After a successful run on the major consoles and corresponding handhelds, the series has nowhere to go but up, both literally and figuratively. Puzzle Quest Galactrix marks the franchise’s foray into outer space; forsaking the medieval storylines in favor of something a bit more futuristic. This change in landscape and tone has brought about a few changes, and not for the better.