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Ethos Video Game Reviews
Thursday, 3 December 2009
2.8 out of 5.0
Now Playing: Sonic Spinball (1993)
Topic: Sega Genesis
     

     Pinball is a very common, timeless, and easily accessible game. It is energetic, kinetic, and known as good old-fashioned clean fun. Pinball machines can be found in restaurants, bars, arcades, or at any other social environment. After being a staple in all sorts of places across the world, it eventually made its leap into the video game world. Slews of pinball and pinball-themed games have been produced for video game systems dating back to the Atari 2600. More specifically, there was one developed by Sega in 1993 that fused together the simplicity and genuine fun of classic pinball with gaming’s newest hot mascot (only 2nd to Mario at the time!) – Sonic the Hedgehog. The concepts collided onto the Sega Genesis, and Sonic Spinball was born.

        If you’re familiar, Sonic was a pretty ideal character to star in a pinball-centric game. He was known as the “blue blur”, and often enough in his own feature games could roll up into a ball and blaze about the greatly designed stages at mind-blowing speeds. Also, by 1993, Sonic was one of the hottest gaming mascots around as he was standing toe to toe with the great Super Mario and the Super Nintendo during the “console wars” of that era. Sonic had tremendous success in his debut game, Sonic The Hedgehog in 1991, and then some more in an even better sequel in 1992. So, of course, there was a call for more Sonic oriented games, and thus Spinball was a perfect diversion. And that is essentially what it is, it is a fun little diversion, not particularly deep, but a curious effort that is worth trying.

        While it may seem as an attempt to capitalize on a guaranteed successful franchise, it isn’t a bad game – however, it certainly has its fair share of issues. The gameplay itself should be faster, and since it isn’t particularly quick, or fluid, it is a tad disappointing considering Sonic and pinball are associated with pure, unadulterated speed. Suffice to say the action isn’t the sharpest, but it still can be fairly entertaining. The sound effects pop and dazzle pretty nicely, and the techno-pop music suits the action well. The controls are also fairly simple, as you control Sonic for a brief time before you jump into the pinball action, but those few moments you control him, are oddly sluggish. In the first level for example, when you fall below the pinball-flippers, you land on a little platform, and you must jump up to evade an angry metallic sea-monster, but the jump is just so slow, which is the very antithesis of Sonic himself and what he represents.

        It is certainly can be a bit more engaging than most pinball games because of its unique take on the established concept. However, that doesn’t make it better than regular pinball or even other pinball video games. While Sega tried to implement different things in this game, they could have used more time in the development stage, fixing up the repetitive action, and really hammering out all of the hiccups. I could envision this game having something of a “remember that one?” factor, but, it is pretty much forgotten by now I’m sure.

        If you ever find a copy of it out there, I’d give it a look. I personally like it, but, it could have been a lot better.

-Kurt L.

__________________________________________________       

 


Posted by ethosreviews at 8:41 PM EST
Updated: Thursday, 10 December 2009 9:45 AM EST
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Wednesday, 2 December 2009
4 out of 5
Now Playing: Golgo 13: Top Secret Episode (1988)
Topic: Nintendo (NES)

 

     One of the first games I can remember playing on my NES besides the Super Mario Bros, was a game steeped in espionage, conspiracy, love, and betrayal. No, I'm not talking about Metal Gear, I'm referring to a less known classic called Golgo 13: Top Secret Episode. Most people may be more familiar with the Top Secret Episode's successor, The Mafat Conspiracy which had a greater popularity. That doesn't mean the Top Secret episode is another NES misfire by any means. In fact, its quite the opposite. In many ways, Golgo 13: Top Secret Episode was years ahead of its time.

  Going back and replaying the Top Secret Episode specifically for review purposes was a real treat for me. Despite being a huge fan of the vintage game play, I find myself being stuck more in the present instead of trying to recapture the joys of my childhood. However, despite years of playing Golgo 13 as a lad I found myself truly surprised of what this game was actually capable of. Call it the ignorance of youth I suppose. Anyway, that's enough reminiscing for one review. Lets get right down to the point, and talk game play.

  Unlike many games on the Nintendo Entertainment System, as soon as you turn on Golgo 13: Top Secret Episode you will realize this isn't your typical 8 bit adventure. Right off the bat, you'll be greeted by a cut scene, that's right I said cut scene, of a helicopter flying over New York City. As the helicopter passes by the Statue of Liberty, is mysteriously explodes. The only clue to as why this helicopter has met its untimely demise is a shell casing from an M-16 rifle...the favorite weapon of special agent Duke Togo, aka Golgo 13. Now obviously this doesn't have the cinematic prowess of games today, but back in 1988 this is top notch stuff and sets the tone for the game to come. Golgo 13: Top Secret Episode is a very story driven game and cut scenes are prevalent throughout the game, as every time you talk to someone another cut scene begins. These conversations are filled with clues as to where you're to go next, thicken the stories plot, and look pretty darn good for an NES game. Mix in a unique, and non repetitive sound track and you've got a game worthy of any international spy.

  Top Secret Episode's mechanics are a mishmash of different elements, which makes this game so unique. It varies from standard side scrolling action, flying helicopters, to first person perspectives, even sniping missions. That's right sniping missions, where even wind speed and direction play a factor on your shot...mind boggling for an NES game isn't it? Now all these factors make an outstanding experience, but at times aren't executed too well. For example some of the FPS areas of the game, you'll use thermal goggles to expose traps, grenades, all good stuff. But do to the graphical limitations of the NES these parts of the game tend to be a bit on the hard side, as they are filled with annoyances and at times make you want to throw your controller threw your TV. That's a little something we call vintage frustration. I probably shouldn't hold that against the game itself being its from 1988, but hey, it is what it is. Controls are easy enough to pick up, it is an NES game after all, and I doubt players will have to spend any time trying to learn how things work.

  There are countless NES games out on the market, with a good number of them being down right bad. Its unfortunate that Golgo 13: Top Secret Episode has gone largely unnoticed being it was so ahead of its time. For those of you who haven't experienced this game in its hay day, I recommend that you try to track down a copy. Being we live in an age where game remakes are becoming more and more popular, Golgo 13: Top Secret Episode certainly merit's a modern rendition. It has all the elements of a top seller.

Written by RB

Over and Out

______________________________________________________


Posted by ethosreviews at 1:57 PM EST
Updated: Wednesday, 3 February 2010 11:30 PM EST
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Tuesday, 1 December 2009
3.6 out of 5.0
Now Playing: 1943: The Battle of Midway (1988)
Topic: Nintendo (NES)

 

     After a mediocre start to this short series of games with 1942, Capcom, the game’s maker, took the basic foundation of which that game built and created a dramatically improved sequel, 1943: The Battle of Midway. Known otherwise as 1943, this sequel is better than its predecessor in practically every aspect.

     It is essentially the same type of game - a vertical-scrolling shooter where you control an airplane battling oncoming enemy aircraft and naval battleships. In this sequel, the gameplay is quicker and much more responsive. The action is tighter, vibrant, and overall a lot more exciting. There was more depth in the gameplay as well because you can upgrade and strengthen your fighter plane to your liking: make it an offensive machine, or a defensive-savvy one, or a blend of both, amongst other options. It certainly provides a refreshing change with each play through.

     The visuals are far better detailed here. From the ocean landscape, to the intricate cloud patterns, to enemy planes and ships, to your own airplane - all are a significant improvement here in the sequel. The great graphics enhance the presentation ten-fold, and makes for a rather pleasing experience.

     The best upgrade of all was the music. Gone were the horrid squeals from the first game and replaced by actual composed music that Capcom was famously known for. Here they flex their artistic muscle by creating a Mega Man-esque soundtrack which compliments the up-tempo action perfectly. The music also varies throughout, and it even features a different tune when you run low on energy as well. This enhancement to a legitimate soundtrack over any other improvement made makes this game a heck of a whole lot more playable than the original.

     Clearly, 1943: The Battle of Midway, is the better choice of Capcom’s duo of World War II oriented scrolling-shooters. It is an NES classic, and I recommend it.

     Also, a suggestion for those who may play 1943 - use the NES Advantage joystick for a better gameplay experience. It is great for the “turbo” action buttons and the appeal of the joystick only adds to the fun when piloting your fighter plane.

-Kurt L.

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Posted by ethosreviews at 10:43 AM EST
Updated: Tuesday, 1 December 2009 10:56 AM EST
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2.2 out of 5.0
Now Playing: 1942 (1986)
Topic: Nintendo (NES)

     1942 for the NES was a simple game. It was a vertical-scrolling shooter where you take control of an airplane and your objective was to gun down bombarding enemy aircraft - a fairly simply concept. And "simple" is the word to describe this game in a nutshell. Sure, even 1942 is eons more complex and further developed than most Atari games that preceded it, but it doesn't add to it's overall package.    

     The gameplay itself is moderately fun at best due to its odd slowness. I say odd because the game should run on a high tempo, but the airplane you control doesn't swiftly move about the screen but rather drags like molasses, and it can be frustrating when surrounded by enemies.

     The graphics are actually pretty decent for 1986, but also look their age. They effectively convey what they represent without really wowing you. Though, perhaps the worst part of this game is the music - it is atrocious. Capcom, the well-known company that made 1942 and its far superior sequel, 1943, have a vastly impressive resume of NES games that feature some of the best the industry has to offer (I.e. the Mega Man series). However, 1942, the "music" is more like a collection of dissonant bleeps and glitch-like squeals - it is very unpleasant, and unfortunately, repetitive.

     It's not a bad game, but it's not great. Deeply flawed, but certainly playable as it is mediocre at best. Pick it up to add it to your collection, but it's more of a relic. I'd stick to the sequel.

-Kurt L.


Posted by ethosreviews at 10:18 AM EST
Updated: Tuesday, 1 December 2009 10:50 AM EST
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2.0 out of 5.0
Now Playing: NBA 2K8 (2007)
Topic: Playstation 3

    

     To put it bluntly, I’ve never been a fan of 2K sports games. While they are quite popular, there are far better incarnations of simulated sports out there under other franchises.

     NBA 2K8, is the embodiment of the successes and failures in this long running series. As expected with all “next-gen” games, the visuals, from a distance at least in this game, are quite good. Whether you’re playing it on the PS3 or the Xbox 360, 2K8 looks good when playing from the typical “broadcast” perspective. When the camera is close up on players faces and their reactions, the models for the most part look good, with realistic sweat-effects. However, all of the character models have these lifeless looking eyes and it is a major drag on the visual aspect. Look closer, and the players look like zombies.

     Gameplay is a rather mixed bag. It flows nicely, but shooting is awkward and there are far too many missed shots by the user (which is you) - and that is an understatement. Even the simplest of layups or low-post shots are bricks, while the computer has no problem banking and swishing any variety of shots in the hoop. This is very disconcerting when trying to stay competitive against the computer. Even on the easiest difficulty setting (rookie), the user will continuously miss seemingly easy baskets. This is the biggest downfall to the 2K series because the gameplay will often move about the screen with fluidity, but the busted shooting mechanism is stiff and subsequently disappointing because even great jump-shooters will shoot poorly.

     The presentation is also polished here and there but is marred by a terrible menu layout. Anytime you look to cycle through the menu pages, it pops up in this odd over-lay fashion. I found this confusing since this pop-up screen acts as your only main menu, and because of that there is no definitive menu screen to refer to outside of this pop-up. I much prefer a more traditional set-up, like that of EA Sports’ NBA Live franchise.

     In the end, I would avoid the 2K series all together. It may have some good points (and is an improvement over the terrible 2K7), however, its frustrations heavily outweighs its positives. The briefly aforementioned NBA Live franchise is far better, more polished, and while not perfect I suppose, it is a far, far better choice over NBA 2K8.

     Go with NBA Live ‘08, you’ll like it a whole lot more. There’s a lot less hassle and a lot more dazzle.

-Kurt L.

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Posted by ethosreviews at 10:01 AM EST
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Monday, 30 November 2009
4.9 out of 5
Now Playing: Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic
Topic: XBox

 

     There is little doubt that the majority of us have seen Star Wars at one time or another. Its easily one of the most lucrative franchises in film history, loaded with all kinds of merchandise for devoted fans to buy. Whether it be plastic action figures, Halloween costumes, or reproduction light sabers Star Wars is big business. One of the main products for Star Wars fans has been the franchises branch into the video game realm. Now I know what you're all thinking, that the large majority of Star Wars based games aren't generally that good. Luckily, we're not going to even discuss those games right now. Instead, let's look towards the lighter side of the force with Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic.

  Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic is easily one of, if not the best Star Wars game ever created. This choice based RPG allows each player to create their customizable avatar and throws them into the Star Wars universe 500 years before the events that take place in the original film. Each player will be able to choose from a male or female character, three different classes (Scoundrels, Scouts, and Soldier) each with their own special abilities, and numerous different face options to give each character a look that's right for you. The choices you make when developing your character affect your strong and weak areas in Knight of the Old Republic. Even your character's gender will have an impact on the story's development. Creating your soon to be Jedi isn't the only choices you'll be making in this extensive RPG, oh no, not by a long shot.

  From the start of the game, each person will be in complete control of the events that goes on around him or her. The game play is designed specifically around the concept of choice whether it be picking a good, evil, or neutral conversation option, or deciding to kill off a specific character you come across. There are plenty of choices for people to tinker around with as you try to decided what path to take, but remember there are consequences for your actions. Although some are more rewarding than others, it is up to you to travel the path of the light, or succumb to the temptation of the dark side. Either way, I can say with almost complete certainty each player already knows which path they will want to take before they even turn on the game. Its one of the truly wonderful aspects of Knights of the Old Republic.

  Knights of the Old Republic's game mechanics are simply a joy. Although the game's fight sequences are broken down into a turned based action style, it is intermixed with live action decision making. There is no awkward pause while trying to figure out what move to pull out next, as the fight will continue to roll a standard attack as you pick what you want to do. This keeps the fighting experience fluent, with a sense of real urgency that brings a player deeper into the RPG experience. Like the customizable character options, players will have a slew of weaponry and armors to choose from. These vary from the all too familiar blasters and light sabers we all know and love, but those are only the tip of the iceberg. Albeit, for 90 percent of the game we'll all be wielding our light sabers like any good force user should. Its no secret that force powers will also be a huge component in a player's arsenal, and there are countless offensive and defensive powers to pick from depending on what alignment you decide to play on. All force powers are open to the player, but a Jedi on the light side using dark side powers will consume more force points than a Sith lord using the same attack. Once your player learns of the force, with each advancing level you'll be able to add or advance force powers that you already have like the rest of your skills. The only downside to Knights of the Old Republic is you can only level 20 times so you won't be able to experiment with all the force powers in the game...so choose wisely.

  Being an RPG, expect every main character to be accompanied by a group of companions who are willing to aide you in your journey. With the fate of the galaxy at hand, no lone hero is capable of completing this mission and with good reason. As I mentioned before, the choices you made when creating your main character will effect your strengths in the game, and its weaknesses. These side characters will complete your groups package, allowing you access to things you might not have been able to do otherwise. That's not all your group is capable of however. Each character has his or her own back story that can be uncovered by talking with them, which could lead to more side quests. Also depending on their in game alignment, light or dark, they'll be around to chime in to praise, or condemn your actions. With their own unique personalities, you'll find yourself gravitating towards the few you like the most when selecting your group. There's nothing like having virtual friends by your side, but remember another character's skills might be needed for advancement. Try to keep yourself as balanced as possible. Another great feature to these groupies is that even when they aren't being played with they will continue to level as experience is earned. So the old days of having to level each player individually to keep them a viable RPG asset is over.

  Knights of the Old Republic is an incredibly cinematic game, and its plot is worthy of the Star Wars title. By now, anyone who is familiar with my reviews knows I won't go into detail about the plot because I hate spoilers. Each player needs to play the game for themselves to learn it's story's secrets, but anyone who turns on Knights of the Old Republic will have a hard time turning it off. This game's story is truly gripping, and filled with twists that will keep the player wanting more. Mix in some established themes from the franchise, and some new ones specifically for Knights of the Old Republic and you have a complete gaming package. Although Knights of the Old Republic is a long game, playing it from start to finish is highly recommended.

  Anyone who has seen a screen shot of Knights of the Old Republic knows it's a graphical wonder. Being a star wars fan, and being disappointed with many of the game's related to the beloved franchise, I can say with absolute certainty that this is the Star Wars game we've all be waiting for. No other Star Wars game has can bestow upon a player the feeling of what it truly is to be a Jedi. Few RPGs can captivate the imagination, and rise to the level of perfection that Knights of the Old Republic has. For fans of the original Xbox, this game is easily one of the best titles released for the system and is a must own.

Written by: RB

Over and Out

________________________________________________________


Posted by ethosreviews at 1:37 PM EST
Updated: Wednesday, 3 February 2010 11:31 PM EST
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Friday, 27 November 2009
5 out of 5
Now Playing: Metal Gear Solid
Topic: Playstation

 

     Lets take a second to set up a scene. Picture yourself alone on an island just off the Alaskan archipelago. The island is home to a dismantled nuclear warhead disposal facility, its been taken over by terrorists hell bent on launching a nuke, and its up to you to save some hostages, and put an end to this terrorist action. If you put all of these elements together in a video game you'll have the crown jewel, Metal Gear Solid.

  For those of you how are unfamiliar with the Metal Gear Solid franchise, it is one of the highest selling game franchises of all time and Metal Gear Solid is the one that started it all for the US market. Back in 1998, most action based games were what you'd expect. Pick up a weapon and let the bad guys have it. That's all good and fine, but Metal Gear Solid offered players something different, something refreshing. Instead of rushing in and letting the bullets fly like a typical action game, the point of Metal Gear Solid is stealth. Playing as highly trained government operative known as Solid Snake, who is a true bad ass if I might add, the player must infiltrate Shadow Moses and stop the terrorists. Sounds simple enough, but since this is a stealth game staying hidden is the key to your survival. You are heavily outnumbered, and if you try to just run and gun your way through this game it will simply spell out an untimely demise for our hero. The fact you start off the game completely unarmed doesn't help your cause either, but I digress. Using stealth skills to sneak up on, or around enemies to avoid large fire fights was a huge change for many gamers, not to mention one of the most rewarding experience you'll ever have in an action game.

  In its time, Metal Gear Solid's artificial intelligence was top notch. Enemies patrolled, listened for sounds, and followed Solid Snake's footprints that he left in the snow. Back in 1998, this made for some challenging game play to stealth/action new comers. But, this is 2009 and for gamers looking to go back or pick of Metal Gear Solid for the first time, the game's AI is very simple compared to many of our modern games. This doesn't mean playing Metal Gear Solid would be a waste in today's day and age, in fact its quite the opposite. To put it simply this game is a classic, and more than just AI earns that title.

  One of the defining elements of Metal Gear Solid is its cinematic quality was eons ahead of its time. With gripping cut scenes, tremendous voice work, and a deep gritty story, it makes it almost impossible to put the controller down once you start. Every character has purpose, every boss is unique, and everything about Metal Gear Solid's plot is down right cool. Now Metal Gear Solid wasn't our hero, Solid Snake, first adventure and the game makes hints of that. For many US gamers, the plot made comments about events that were basically unknown to us. The reasoning behind this was in Japan, Metal Gear was an already established franchise for the MSX with the release of Metal Gear and Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake for that system. Although Metal Gear was available to the US market on NES, its port didn't capture the essence of its MSX counterpart. I won't even get into the bastardization of Metal Gear 2's counterpart, Snake's Revenge. Anyway with those comments aside, players who haven't experienced Metal Gear 1 or 2, won't feel in the least bit lost with Solid's story. It explains itself, moves fluently, and leaves the players wanting more.

  There are few games that truly stand the test of time, and beckon us to play them over and over. Only a legendary game could make a simple exclamation point, a symbol of the stealth/action genre gamers recognize and love. I can say with absolute certainty that Metal Gear Solid is one of those games, and was easily one of the best titles available for the Playstation platform. Metal Gear Solid pulls those playing it in, and once it sinks its hooks into you there is no turning back. It was way ahead of its time, and worthy of becoming one of your favorites. I know its definitely one of mine.

Written by RB

Over and Out

________________________________________________________


Posted by ethosreviews at 11:44 AM EST
Updated: Wednesday, 3 February 2010 11:31 PM EST
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4.2 out of 5
Now Playing: Resident Evil
Topic: Nintendo Gamecube

 

     Survival horror is a gaming genre that few manufacturers can pull off successfully. Every element of the game has to be spot on for the player to truly be engulfed in the setting, and feel a sense of dread when turning every corner. Back in 1996, Capcom brought us into a dark mansion filled with zombies and other terrifying creatures in the Playstation hit, Resident Evil. In many ways, Resident Evil set the bar of what a survival horror game should be. However, anyone who has played the original recently would agree although a stable to the Playstation consol, is incredibly outdated and blocky. Luckily, there is an excellent alternative for those who want to duel the undead once again. I'm of course talking about the Nintendo Gamecube's remake of Resident Evil.

  With the lengthy introduction over with, anyone who owns a Nintendo's little fun square probably has Resident Evil to go along with it. The remake of Resident Evil was one of the most anticipated releases for that system, and with good reason. Being a full remake, we for the first time were able to see that dark spooky mansion and all of its zombie goodness in a light most of us never thought possible. Graphically, it is easily one of the best looking games ever to grace the Gamecube. Even in the year 2009, Resident Evil still holds up and with all of the HD quality graphics on the market that's saying quite a bit. There is an excellent amount of detail that was put into Resident Evil, and it truly helps the player feel drawn into their surroundings. Mix in a dark soundtrack, and you have yourself one heck of a creepy gaming experience.

  Being a true remake, many of the themes from the original Playstation hit have carried over to the Gamecube. You pick your path by either playing as S.T.A.R.S members Chris Redfield or Jill Valentine. Although the core of the game is the same, there are variations between the two, not to mention distinct difference in the character's abilities. Chris, being having an extensive military career before joining The S.T.A.R.S-SWAT like unit can take more damage and his shots are more devastating. Jill being a cunningly street smart cop can't take as much damage, but she can pick locks and has more space to carry items. Controls are tight, as were the originals. Any veteran of the Resident Evil franchise will feel comfortable jumping on in. You can also expect all the familiar weaponry from the original to return, such as the 9mm handgun, shotguns, grenade launcher, and of course the trusty combat knife. One major difference is the ability to use defensive attacks when a Zombie, or other creepy critters get their undead paws on you. By using items such as daggers, or grenades to put a halt to their assault was a clever addition to the Resident Evil arsenal, and also added a bit of realism to the experience. I don't know about you, but I'm not about to let a random Zombie just chomp down on my neck...luckily neither will Jill or Chris. Some of the games tricky puzzles have also been revamped or tweaked, but with a little patients aren't overly difficult so the pace of the game will continue to flow fluently.

  For the veteran players of Resident Evil, don't expect a lot of new surprises from this adaptation. The game's plot is virtually unchanged, although the voice work has been greatly improved compared to the original release. That doesn't mean all of the voice acting is perfect, some are still on the tacky side, but it's a minor critique that really doesn't take away from the game's fun factor.

  There were few true hits to Nintendo's Gamecube. With a barrage of E rated games geared towards the Nerds in training (meaning ages 10 and below), it was a welcome sight to see something dark and ghoulish for the mature crowd. The fact that it was an old favorite just made it all the better. Like the countless zombies you'll slaughter through this game, this remake brought the Resident Evil franchise back from the dead.

Written by RB

Over and Out

________________________________________________________


Posted by ethosreviews at 11:37 AM EST
Updated: Wednesday, 3 February 2010 11:31 PM EST
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4.5 out of 5
Now Playing: Halo: Combat Evolved
Topic: XBox

 

     There are few games that are completely polarizing yet rise up to legendary status like Halo: Combat Evolved. Halo has been a topic of many heated debates as far as first person shooters are concerned. Some people love Halo, others can't stand it. Personally, Halo was the first game I got for my Microsoft Xbox and I've been hooked ever since.

  Now before all you Halo haters start chiming in, Halo: Combat Evolved although a tremendous first person shooter isn't exactly "evolved". In many ways, its what you would expect from the genre. Halo starts off with a genetically engineered super soldier known only as Master Chief being woken from a cryogenic sleep when the star ship he is being transported on falls under attack by a nasty breed of aliens called the Covenant. As you can gather, it doesn't take long for the bullets to start flying.

  There really isn't any huge surprises in Halo's game mechanics. You're essentially a one man army, who is outfitted with a nifty set of armor that is equipped with power shields, can use any weapon he finds whether it is human or alien, and drive any vehicle in the galaxy. Not exactly ground breaking, these are all elements we've seen before, but Halo has refined each individual element to perfection. With tight controls, the intense action flows fluently. Players will be able to start getting headshots on those nasty aliens with only one level of practice, or get into a tank and chase ET back to the mother ship without a hitch. There are a large variety of weaponry for the player to tinker around with as I mention before. With a mix of alien and human weapons you'll quickly learn if shooting good old fashioned lead from an assault rifle or a blast of plasma from an alien side arm is the right tool for the job against the enemy you're currently going head to head against. By no means will players be getting bored with experimenting with each weapon in Halo. The AI system in Halo isn't exactly perfect, but for its time was ahead of the game. Master Chief is often surrounded by fellow Marines that help engage in some seriously epic firefights and are great to have around, but don't be surprised if some of those Marines wander into your line of fire from time to time. Do your best to not get to trigger happy against your brothers in arms however, if you kill to many of them expect a little pay back...they are Marines after all.

  Halo isn't a mindless run and gun experience that doesn't have any merit however, albeit there certainly is a lot of running and gunning. Halo is a very story driven first person shooter, and its plot is high quality. I won't go into too much detail, so each player may uncover the story for his or her own self, but Master Chief's mission to stop the Covenant from activating the super weapon Halo will keep you wanting to advance deeper and deeper into the game. Mixed with some great voice work and a legendary soundtrack, Halo's story is one Xbox fans won't be forgetting any time soon.

  For an early Xbox game, Halo's graphics are surprisingly good holding up to later releases near the end of the system's lifespan. Character design was unique, level designs were often large and had great amounts of detail right down to the blades of grass, and cut scenes were truly cinematic. A bit of a side note with the graphics, if you plan on playing the game on your Xbox 360 instead of an original Xbox, the graphics will be much clearer on the 360...not that they needed any help on the original system.

  Unless you've been living under a rock since Halo's release, there is no denying its popularity with the Xbox fan base. The franchise has continued to grow and flourish over the years, and there is countless hours to enjoy playing as the Master Chief. Halo: Combat Evolved is a game I frequently return to, and for all those Halo haters out there you have no idea what your missing out on. Halo: Combat evolved deserves a spot in any Xbox collection.

Written by: RB

Over and Out

________________________________________________________


Posted by ethosreviews at 11:24 AM EST
Updated: Wednesday, 3 February 2010 11:31 PM EST
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Tuesday, 24 November 2009
4.9 out of 5
Now Playing: The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask (2000)
Topic: Nintendo 64

 

     There are few franchises that touch the hearts of millions world wide like, The Legend of Zelda. Ever since the franchise debuted on the Nintendo Entertainment System, back in the late 1980s, Zelda and Link have become household names. With that kind of popularity, the Legend of Zelda has appeared on every single Nintendo system to date, ensuring that we won't ever have a shortage of epic adventures. Undeniably, the most well received addition to the Zelda family, was Ocarina of Time for the Nintendo 64. I think I can speak for a lot of us when I say it changed the way we look at video games, but there is a forgotten N64 Zelda that never truly got the recognition it deserves. I'm referring to, The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask.

  Playing off of the success of Ocarina of Time, Majora's Mask was a sequel to the smash hit. The adventure begins when the Hero of Time, Link, has left the land of Hyrule in search of his fairy companion who left at the end of Ocarina of Time. With a sword, shield, and Ocarina in hand, we see our sleepy hero drifting off while on horseback in a foggy forest. Then shortly after he is ambushed by a Skull Kid wearing Majora's Mask and two fairies. Link loses his ocarina and horse, and the story takes off from there. The one thing is certain, The Legend of Zelda franchise knows how to make things dramatic and Majora's Mask is no different. This game's story is a diamond in the ruff, and in its day was dismissed for its light hearted nature. Now I understand that those of you who have played Majora's Mask are saying to yourselves right now, "Light hearted nature!? A moon with a face is dropping down on the world in three days time!", and you're completely correct. I'm referring to the brilliant tactic of covering up such a dark, apocalyptic plot with the light music themes that get more frantic as the clock ticks closer and closer to doomsday, and the often bright color schemes that you wouldn't expect in a game about the end of the world. Instead of making Majora's Mask overly dreary, and believe me on further examination this game is dreary, Majora's presentation is something even young children can enjoy.

  If you played The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask's predecessor, Ocarina of Time, then you will have no problem picking up the controller and jumping right on in. The control schemes are identical, although are slightly more responsive in my opinion. Even learning how to play those lovely tunes on Link's fairy flute is identical to Ocarina of Time, so any N64 Zelda veteran will feel right at home. There is one element to Majora's Mask that might throw some a curve ball. Unlike any previous Zelda installments, Majora's Mask isn't a linear experience. Instead of just going from start to finish, never worrying about looking back, the biggest aspect to this game is your doomsday clock. That's right, you are on a time limit, an in game 3 days time limit. If you fail to stop the moon from dropping in those 3 days, game over man. But, its not as difficult as you might think. Being a Hero of Time and all, Link has the ability to go back to the first day at his leisure, thus resetting anything you have accomplished before warping back. This makes Majora's Mask feel like something out of a Quentin Tarantino film, it's a very bilinear experience and adds a measure of depth I've never seen in a game up Majora's release. But, traveling back in time isn't the only addition to the franchise Majora's Mask offers. Link also has the ability to change his form by putting on different masks you acquire throughout the game. The acquisition of these masks is yet another dark event as the spirit of the form Link is about to change into is absorbed by the mask, not to mention the creepy cut scene when the actual shape shift begins. You will also have to help out the towns folk in their time in need, and many of their situations are dire. Their side missions are very rewarding, however no one will remember your good deeds by the time you travel back to the first day. Being a hero is such a thankless job.

  I could continue on for hours and hours about how great Majora's Mask truly is, but in the end it is something each player must discover for themselves. It was a refreshing adventure, and Link's darkest one yet. Although I can understand its bilinear nature can be complex at times, try to think of it as a waltz through time. You have to know the steps to the dance, or you'll lose the beat. Pace yourself, explore and learn the game's patterns, and your patience will be reward with a gaming experience like no other.

Written by: RB

Over and Out

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Posted by ethosreviews at 1:54 AM EST
Updated: Wednesday, 3 February 2010 11:32 PM EST
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