1st Impression Review: DJ Hero

Ever since I’ve read a preview of this game, I’ve been looking forward to it’s release. I’ve finally recent got my hands on this game and I must say it has been worth the wait. Anyone else who enjoys other rhythm games and hip-hop, pop, electronica mixes will most likely enjoy this game as well.

To provide a slight background of previous rhythm game experiences: I’ve been playing guitar/instrument based games since Guitar Hero 3. My instrument of preference is the guitar. Although I can play most songs on hard difficulty, my comfort level for these games is on normal mode (where I coast through songs at 98-100% accuracy). So my primary concern with DJ hero before I played it was the potential for simplicity and lack of difficulty (considering there are only 3 color coded buttons). I was pleased to discover that this is not the case with this game.

DJ Hero does have a similar system where you have to hit the appropriate color coded buttons at the right time as they stream down the highway, like the guitar system on games like Rock Band and Guitar Hero. Instead of this being the primary method of game play, it is only a portion of what you have to do when playing the game. DJ Hero employs a scratching system where you have to hold the appropriately colored button down while moving the turntable. For me it was very fun getting crazy with extended scratch sequences, but the game isn’t very forgiving about accuracy; pull your last scratch off just tad too late and you’ll find your point multiplier gone.

Every song that you play in DJ hero is actually a customized mix between two tracks (many of which are very well done btw). On medium difficulty and above, the crossfader is used to move between each track. In my opinion, this element of the game is where the learning curve comes into play for players who are very good with other rhythm games. Depending on the song, the crossfader sequences can be brutal, forcing you to move the crossfader back and forth quickly and accurately, while hitting notes and scratching at the same time. I personally had issues keeping track of crossfader positioning while playing at times. There are other elements of game that are more or less bells and whistles. There are times where you can activate your own set of sound effects, using the effects dial. There are also times where you can turn the effects dial to change the tone of a note (like the whammy bar in guitar games).

Unfortunately, I was so caught up on the Quicklist when I first started playing this game, that I don’t have much info on how the game progression works (I must have played the Boom Boom Pow mix like 10 times lol). From what I’ve gathered, you play gigs, and unlock other gigs with stars that you have earned. On the multiplayer side, there is separate song list where another player can use a GH/Rockband guitar to play along with the DJ.

My initial experience with this game has been a very enjoyable one. I’ll admit, I totally suck at this game. But the experience is enjoyable enough for me to want to continue to practice and master the new systems that DJ hero has brought to the rhythm game scene. What I admire most about this game is that instead of just adding a new instrument and using the same formula, DJ Hero has re-invented the genre and has provided true innovation. In a world where most other new rhythm based games are providing new song lists and little innovation, this is a breath of fresh air.

Story: N/A
Gameplay: 9.5
Graphics: 7
Overall: 9

Shining Force IV

Sorry I haven’t updated the blog in awhile, but it’s about time for another version of ‘Games that should be developed’. Hopefully I’ll get to some more reviews to post on soon. The younger generation might not know about the Shining Force franchise, but former owners of the late great Sega Genesis might know about this amazing series. Shining Force was one of the first, (if not the original) console turn-based strategy games. To this day it remains an amazing title, despite its age.

Shining Force introduced many compelling elements that set it apart from many games of its genre. Perhaps the most unique was the combat perspective. Whenever a combat action took place, a mini animation took place in which you could see the action executed up close.

These animations made each encounter seem more intense then most modern TBS game encounters, which always maintain the same combat perspective. Shining Force also introduced the Promotion system. Once your character reached level 10, you could choose to promote them to a more prestigious combat class. The interesting thing about this system was a newly promoted character was typically weaker for a few levels then they would hit what I call a ‘growth spurt’ and start acquiring high stat gains per level. This system made you really consider when it was best to promote your characters so that your entire team wasn’t too weak to handle an upcoming battle.

Shining Force also had many interesting combat units. There were centaur-like melee classes known as Knights who used lances for up close combat but could also use spears for ranged combat. There were also Birdmen who had advanced movement capability due to their ability to fly. There were also many other single units that stood out, namely: Zylo the werewolf, Bleu the dragon, Adam the cyborg, Hanzo the ninja, and of course the overly powerful Musashi the samurai. Considering the fact that there were over 30 playable characters in this game, many of them were intriguing enough to remain memorable throughout all these years…

I know Sega has continued the ‘Shining Force’ name with some of their newer PlayStation 2 titles. I was extremely excited to play the 1st one, but was very disappointed when I picked it up. Now don’t get me wrong, I liked this game but it was no Shining Force. Basically this game is an action RPG title; this isn’t a bad thing, but it really has no true relation to the original Shining Force series. So if anyone at Sega happens to see this…please bring back the true Shining Force! The TBS genre has evolved immensely since Shining Force (the Final Fantasy Tactics franchise is an excellent example), but as the innovator of this genre, I know you guys can adapt to the times and make an amazing true Shining Force title. Even it’s a hand-held title, that will suffice!

Chrono X

Many RPG gamers that used to have a Super Nintendo are familiar with the Chrono franchise. The first installment of the Chrono series, Chrono Trigger, is somewhat iconic; it has already been ported to the PS1, and an enhanced port will be available on the DS in the near future. An fine example of a classic RPG, Chrono Trigger was based on the premise of time travel, and the associated consequences. As far as I know, the Chrono franchise was the first game to incorporate team attacks, and may have been the first turn based RPG to incorporate enemy positioning as a strategic element of game play. Despite its innovative combat mechanics, Chrono Trigger was simplistic at its core and could be easily picked up and played.

The second installment of the Chrono series, Chrono Cross, was not as popular as the first (at least among my peers), yet was a solid title. Rather than focus on time travel, Chrono Cross was based on two parallel worlds, and their connection to one another. Chrono Cross also featured innovative combat mechanics, incorporating multiple options per player turn, and replacing magic points with consumable (per encounter) spells, known as elements. Chrono Cross also featured a large number of playable characters, over 40 if I remember correctly.

Both of these titles were amazing in their time, and I am saddened that a 3rd installment of this franchise has yet to be created. When reviewing the information I found on wikipedia, the chance of a new Chrono title being developed looks pretty slim….Nevertheless, Square-Enix, please consider continuing the Chrono series. I’m sure you’ve heard many similar requests and they’re are probably pretty meaningless at this point, but allow me to support my request with legitimate reasoning:

1.) The Chrono series fan base is vast; this is evident considering the amount of copies sold, and all of the websites that are still dedicated to this franchise despite its age. Remember, Chrono Trigger introduced many casual gamers to the RPG genre, and that same age group has become a significant part of the current electronic entertainment market. More then likely this title would turn a profit.

2.) I understand that it would be difficult to re-unite the original dev teams, and using a new dev team may take away from the series original appeal. This is a valid concern. However, if it were possible to mobilize even a few of the original developers (writers in particular), I’m sure your talented staff could maintain the charm that endeared the Chrono series to our hearts. Even if this wasn’t possible, just make sure that your new dev team has an intimate knowledge of the original game’s story lines and their associated themes. As long as these elements are consistent, I’m certain that fans will appreciate the work created by another team. Don’t forget that Chrono Cross was much different then Chrono Trigger; I could find few connections between the two games, yet I can appreciate Chrono Cross in its own way.

3.)The RPG genre needs you!!! There are few RPGs that were as innovative as either of the Chrono games. I’m sure if you were to make another Chrono title, the combat mechanics involved would be a breath of fresh air for all RPG fans craving something original. Alternatively, elaborate and improve the previous combat mechanics. I personally would like to see an emphasis on group techs again. You can always contact me (admin@generaldhade.info), if you would like to hear any of my ideas of what can be done in regards to combat design.

So, Square-Enix, please consider the aforementioned supporting statements, and create another addition to the Chrono franchise

Mass Effect Review:

Once again, BioWare has developed a masterpiece. Mass Effect is a 3rd person shooter/RPG, and is a near perfect blend of both genres. Mass Effect has nearly unlimited re-playability, offering multiple classes to select from as well as BioWare’s signature morality options.

The story of Mass Effect is both original and masterfully executed. It is also interactive; your choices affect the outcome on the story. You play a soldier of the Alliance (human military forces) who is sent on a mission to investigate an artifact recently discovered on a human colony. The following events places your character in a galactic man-hunt which ends up unveiling a larger conspiracy that threatens all forms of life. I would love to elaborate on this, however I don’t want to spoil the plot for those who have yet to finish the game. Bottom line, the story is well put together, and it has a plot twist that is truly epic. In addition to that, you can indulge in the detailed lore of the game by using the ‘codex’ system.

Those who enjoy character customization will appreciate Mass Effect’s various customization options. Upon character creation you are able to select your character’s sex, physical appearance, background, class, and supplement talent. Half of the classes to select from are specialty classes, while the other half are hybrid classes. When completing a certain quest, your character has the ability to change into a prestige class, which serves to complement your individual play style, while retaining your core class attributes (Similar to KOTOR 2). As you advance in level, you are able to improve your abilities by investing in class specific talent points. You can also use a supplement talent, which includes a choice of any of the talent achievements that you have unlocked with previous characters (For example, if you unlock the Assault rifle talent achievement, you can can use the Assault rifle talent for a class that would not normally have it). Considering all of this, it is clear that Mass Effect offers a robust character customization experience (Singularity + Overkill ftw ).

Mass Effect employs both squad and vehicle based combat. In squad based combat, you are able to use special abilities and switch the weapons of any party member on the fly, using an intuitive circular HUD. There are no ammunition quotas in Mass Effect, but a cleaver weapon heating mechanic is used to balance gameplay. When your weapon overheats, it is temporary unavailable. You have the ability to customize your weapons, by using various round types, and weapon augmentations, which enhance your weapons abilities. This adds a strategic element to party management when facing certain enemy types. Vehicle combat is much simpler; you can only use your main gun, or rockets when using the planetary rover, the Mako. Overall, the squad based combat is very enjoyable and the vehicle combat is mediocre, although I can appreciate its role in the game.

The overall game progression of Mass Effect is linear, however you do have a great amount of freedom for exploration, once you have secured the game’s vessel, the Normandy. You have the ability to traverse to clusters, which contain multiple systems, which contain various planets. Almost every system has at least one planet that you can explore using the Mako, allowing the indulgence of many side quests, and money making ventures. The universe of Mass Effect is large, offering extended gameplay for those who are determined to explore the entire universe (like me ).

Overall, I have minor grips with Mass Effect. At times managing the Mako can be cumbersome, and the squad commands don’t always seem to work (in particular, the command that directs your squad to move to a specified location). However, this game is fantastic and highly recommended to those who enjoy both the RPG and shooter genres. If you are just looking for a strait up shooter, you may want to pass on Mass Effect (I have seen nubs criticize this game because they can’t figure out how to get past the Citadel, lol…l2read guys ;D). On the other hand, if you are looking for a 3rd person shooter that looks gorgeous, has a compelling story, and cleaver combat mechanics, you will want to get this game!

Scores:

Story: 10
Gameplay: 9
Graphics: 9
Overall: 9.5

Samurai Warriors 2 Review:

Samurai Warriors 2 is an epic hack-n-slash title. You have the ability to unlock 26 playable characters (24 characters playable in story mode). Those who like enjoy the button-masher genre, will appreciate the extended amount of game time Samurai Warriors 2 offers for those on a quest to get 26 characters to level 50 and obtain each of their best weapons (like me ).

SW2 offers 4 playable modes: Story, Free, Survival, and Sugoroku. Story mode is where you take your avatar though 5 stages revealing your avatar’s role in the story of the warring Japanese states. This is the mode that you must complete to unlock the majority of the available officers and a bonus stage. In Free mode you are able to play with any of the characters you have unlocked in practically every scenario. In survival mode, you are able to see how far you can advance within a castle of infinite floors. Sugoroku mode is mini game similar to Monopoly. I am disappointed with the lack of a officer creation mode, especially since it was available in the previous Samurai Warriors.

In SW2, you have the ability to develop your officers through gaining levels, acquiring skills, and obtaining weapons. Skills can be learned by defeating enemy officers, or purchased at the shop. Weapons have 4 levels of quality and can be upgraded to increase your officers attributes. The level 4 weapons can only be obtained on the hardest difficulty levels, upon fulfilling certain conditions. Some of these conditions are overwhelming and frustrating, as they can demand your presence in multiple locations on the battlefield simultaneously.

Each character has a string of attack combinations they can employ, which expands as the character increases in level. Many combinations have special utilities in combat, such as stunning effects, attacking all enemies in a radius, and triggering an elemental effect from a weapon. Also, each character has two unique special abilities they can use in combat. Some of abilities are pretty worthless, while others are really useful.

SW2’s storyline is surprisingly intriguing. The story revolves around Japanese lords, contending for the goal of unifying Japan. Each character’s storyline intertwines with one another’s characters storyline. The overall storyline varies depending on your character, but maintains a general consistency. However, my opinion of the SW2 storyline is bias; as I am interested in Japanese culture.

SW2 is an enjoyable title; although those who are not fans of the genre will probably be bored of the redundant game play. SW2 offers the amazing ability to allow the player to single handedly destroy hundreds of enemy troops. Also, In-game objectives also add an element of strategy, which can be used to turn the tide of a battle. Those who have enjoyed previous Koei titles will want to pick this one up.

I have been fortunate enough to possess all three of the current generation consoles, and this my general analysis based off of my experience using them. I know this entry probably would have been more useful when the Wii and PS3 were first released, but oh well…Please note that this analysis does not provide technical specifications for each console, but rather information regarding their general usability. Also this analysis will not include each console’s online gaming capabilities, simply because I do not participate in online console gaming.

Wii:

The Wii’s motion sensitive capabilities offer a truly unique and enjoyable gaming experience. I was skeptical at first, but I admit that using actual movements make gaming seem much more engaging. This unique gaming style seems to appeal to non-gamers, which makes the Wii the ultimate party console when guests are over. Also, the Wii takes backwards compatibility to the next level; you are able to play classic NES, SNES, and N64 titles, in addition to all Game Cube titles.

I do have a few minor grips about the Wii. My biggest concern is the lack of hard drive. Although, this is no big deal if you have a limited to moderate game library and don’t install many classic titles. The Wii’s motion detection is usually accurate; however the range isn’t as far as I would have hoped.

Considering its motion innovation, backward compatibility, and reasonable price, the Wii has a lot going for it. I look forward to new ideas that developers will use when creating titles tailored for the Wii. On the same token, it might be difficult for developers make certain titles for the Wii; as existing franchises are generally tailored for traditional gaming consoles. The future of the Wii will be a very interesting one to behold.

Xbox 360:

Launching much earlier then its competitors, the Xbox 360 has had to time to develop a formidable game library. This is a substantial advantage, as the Xbox 360’s competitors only have a couple of handfuls of titles currently available. Another advantage that the Xbox 360 offers is a detachable hard drive; you can move all of your data from one Xbox 360 to another by loading your profile.

The Xbox 360’s main drawback is its backward compatibility shortcomings. I have over 30 Xbox titles, and I can play less then half of them on my Xbox 360. Furthermore, I have yet to find a way to transfer my old Xbox data into my Xbox 360 (I don’t think it’s possible, however if anybody knows how to do this, please let me know). As such, I’m unable to retire my original Xbox.

The Xbox 360 is a force to be reckoned with in the current console war, mainly because of its extensive library. I will admit I use my Xbox 360 more then any of my other consoles, simply because I have more games for it. Additionally, there are some exclusive Xbox titles that must haves.

PS3:

The PS3 is by far my favorite gaming console. First of all, all of my PS3 titles look amazing. It’s also a nice bonus to have a blue ray dvd player (Blu-Ray dvds look phenomenal). The PS3 controller’s ‘Six Axis’ capabilities are a cool implementation, that add depth to certain titles. Also, I am impressed with the backward compatibility of the PS3. I have over 30 PS2 titles and a handful of PS1 titles, and I’m able to play them all on my PS3. Furthermore, with an additional accessory, I was able to store all of my PS1 and PS2 data on my PS3 hard drive.

The are very few things I can complain about concerning my PS3. My main concern is that the controllers can sometimes lose connectivity. However, this is easily remedied by plugging them in. Also, it would be nice to have a detachable hard drive, in case my PS3 crashes on me one day.

Unfortunately, the PS3 is losing the current gen console war. However, the PS3 is in it for the long run, and the majority of it’s must have exclusive titles have yet to drop. I am looking forward to what developers will be able to do with the PS3s superior hardware in the future.