Archive for May, 2009

Review: Plants vs. Zombies

In any universe, zombies would undeniably conquer plants. PopCap Games seeks to overturn that stereotype with the release of Plants vs. Zombies, an infectiously cute tower defense title that packs enough charm and personality to entertain any gamer. If you’ve moved on from Peggle, welcome to your new addiction.

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Review: Klonoa (Wii Door to Phantomile Remake)

A few years back, there was a fantastic little game that went by the name of Klonoa: Door to Phantomile. Largely ignored by many gamers hesitant to spend a bit of time with a mascot character that wasn’t Mario, it enjoyed moderate success but it was pushed away into obscurity. Luckily a few hardcore fans stayed with Klonoa through all of the stages, even the smaller Game Boy Advance ports and various side-quests of games. However, to most Klonoa fans, Door to Phantomile remains the true hallmark for the series, showcasing what Namco’s mascot character is truly capable of. Fast forward twelve years later to 2009, and Klonoa: Door to Phantomile has received a re-release via the Nintendo Wii. Is it worth resurrecting for the chance at making some new fans? You bet.

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Review: Final Fantasy: Crystal Defenders

When one thinks of Final Fantasy, the mind usually conjures up epic battles and solid RPG gameplay, or even tactical warfare. Does one ever think of tower defense-styled gameplay? Probably not. Square has ventured toward creating something a bit different with the first-ever Xbox Live Arcade release for the franchise with Final Fantasy: Crystal Defenders. Though it isn’t as strategically diverse as a glut of the other, more popularized tower defense titles, it offers a decent challenge and satisfying throwback to the days of gorgeous sprites and thinking before you make your next move. Kupo-po!