Showing posts with label Square Enix. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Square Enix. Show all posts

Wednesday, October 21, 2015

Dragon Quest Heroes: Final Impressions & Verdict (PS4)

At first "Dragon Quest Heroes" seemed to be a simple bare bones JRPG brawler akin to the 'Dynasty Warriors' series, and not much more than that. You had short lived missions that you could take on with applicable in-depth battle mechanics, and after battle intermissions that left the player wanting more. I personally longed for that epic battlefield experience that 'Dynasty Warriors' is known for, but the game seemed to fall short of living up to such a grand in-game spectacle. Sure the game looked, and sounded amazing, but one couldn't help but ask "Where is all the epic stuff?". Thankfully the more I played the more the game opened up to me. There were plenty of new playable characters to play as, and plenty of new vendors that offered up even more things to do in between the various mission objectives. Not only did you have the enemy clearing challenges, and boss battles adorned with story driven cutscenes, but things like grinding levels that could go on forever began to show up. Those lucrative extra missions, and the weekend bonuses really got me excited about actually dedicating some time to my playthrough. While it may not be a game that's for everyone I do feel that 'Dragon Quest Heroes', and it's unique approach to the JRPG formula has earned it it's rightful place on the PS4 as a true gem of a game. A "Must Have!!!" title!

Wednesday, October 14, 2015

Dragon Quest Heroes: The World Tree's Woe & The Blight Below (PS4)

When I chose to pre-order this game I kind of knew what to expect, but honestly upon playing it my expectations weren't met in full. At least they haven't been up to this point. Currently in my playthrough I seem to be caught up in the game's introductory phase which is teaching me the controls, and various other mechanics related to the Dynasty Warriors inspired gameplay. I will say that what I've learned so far is easy enough to pick up on, and understand, but that the control scheme is a little complex. Unlike the DW games there seems to be a lot more involved in the various combat scenarios that you take on than what you'd find in such gaming experiences. Sadly those combat scenarios, or missions which have the characters getting to the bottom of the world's monster issues are short lived, and divided by character management intermissions. I do understand in saying that, that I have yet to experience the game in full though. I'm hoping there's more to it than to just go out, kill all the baddies, and return to better equip your characters for the next battle. We'll have to wait, and see though ...

When it comes to the complete package that is "Dragon Quest Heroes" the graphics, and accompanying soundtrack are hands-down the most delightful I've experienced thus far this year. By Square Enix, and Koei Tecmo sticking with the original artist of the series on the project it has truly lived up to it's hype both visually, and audibly. There's plenty of gorgeous cutscenes, and even the in-game character models are a sight to behold. The fact that the soundtrack is so special the developer, and publisher had to throw in a copyright notice regarding the legal terms of streaming the game tells you that this game is truly a gem in someone's eyes. To me the soundtrack was a noteworthy homage to Dragon Quest games of old. It sounded retro, but modern at the same time. It had a sort of fun-loving ambiance that reflected the more lighthearted scenario that the game encompasses. Keep in mind there is a bad guy doing bad things in the story, but this game is anything, but foreboding. The added fact that the spoken dialogue can be heard through the PS4 DualShock4 controller makes the game even more immersive.

Thursday, June 12, 2014

Murdered: Soul Suspect (PS4)

Video games come in a variety of different makes, and models these days. The design can sometimes be elaborate to the point that the experience lasts for days, or even months. Such is the world of RPGs, and open world sandbox games. Other games are short lived, but leave a lasting impression on the gamers' mind. In the case of Airtight Games' "Murdered: Soul Suspect" I think it falls in dead center of the latter category. The developer has made the game more than just a quick run through opportunity, and instead has the gamer focus on every tiny detail that went into the game's design. Everything from the characters involved, the special effects, the locations, the stealth gameplay, and the crime solving puzzles come together in a nice neat package that will keep your attention wholly focused on everything that is happening, and everything that is being shown onscreen. Not only that, but the graphics are good enough to boast about, and the game's applied atmosphere is one that definitely screams "AFTERLIFE!".

Tuesday, May 20, 2014

Drakengard 3 (PS3)

In the beginning of this Hack 'n Slash JRPG prequel by Square Enix we find a fantastical land divided by chaos, and a populous overburdened with the conflicts of war. It isn't until the five divine female Intoners (songstresses) descend from the heavens, and calm the warring civilians with their song that true peace is finally realized. Unfortunately for the five Intoners, and their newly devoted worldly followers a sixth Intoner by the name of "Zero" arrives abruptly on the scene shortly thereafter ready to kill her fellow Intoner sisters, and rule the world as she sees fit. It is Zero's story that is being told for the duration of the game, and it is through her actions, and reactions that we slowly come to understand why it is she is doing what she's doing. The bloody revenge plot that ensues is filled with a Tarantino style kill frenzy, 'Devil May Cry' combat mechanics, and a comedic nature that takes in account over-the-top sexual innuendo as well as some mature trash talk not meant for younger ears. Zero, her faithful dragons, and her soon to be disciples will ultimately delve deep into a callous, and emotional story of pure bloodshed coating themselves with the crimson stain of those who would dare stand in their way.

Wednesday, March 5, 2014

Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition (PS4)

If you grew up as a young lad during the PSOne era of gaming you'll no doubt have spent some quality time getting acquainted with Miss Lara Croft's naughty physique, and her noteworthy archaeological  adventures. Prior to the release of the original Tomb Raider series no one in game development had ever touched base on such an adventure as the ones Lara Croft embarked on. Not only was she the female version of the well known "Indiana Jones", but she was more badass than he ever was. This gun toting hottie put away many historic, and prehistoric threats during her treasure seeking days, and always walked away to tell the tale. From a guys standpoint Lara was the video game epitome of sexy. She was a virtual goddess that captured the attention of many like minded guy gamers. I for one fell for her unreal beauty, and even once attempted to make a bogus nude code work. By the way, thank you friend for bursting my bubble with that one. You know who you are ...

Thursday, January 30, 2014

"Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn" 60 Day Pre-Paid Game Time Cards Available!!!

HOLY HELL!!! When I first saw this update on gamepress I was shocked, but shocked in a most pleasant way. I think Square Enix actually listened to my advice folks! I really do. I'm truly glad they did too, because what I had to say was a great idea. If you've been following my posts I recently typed up an article talking about worthy, and not so worthy DLC, and pay-per-play offers. In it I mentioned the fact that I've wanted to play "Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn" since it's release on the PS3, but the mandatory credit card requirements kept me from doing so. I just don't have the faith in PSN's console security, and will NEVER submit billing info to them. That's the reason I was so straightforward with my blog posting, and is why I included "Square Enix" as a tag on the posting. I really wanted to get their attention, and it looks like it paid off.

Monday, January 27, 2014

"Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn" on the PS4!?


Well, it seems that the development team over at Square Enix definitely wants to push old games onto consumers by offering revamped versions of them for next-gen consoles. They did it with "Tomb Raider: The Definitive Edition", and now they are doing it with "Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn". I know gaming journalists who oppose these kinds of practices could have a field day with the update material that I'm going to provide, but part of me wants to welcome this online Final Fantasy MMO onto my PS4. I've wanted to play the game ever since it was released on the PS3. Of course it goes without saying that I will not be paying via credit card though, because of security risks. I hope to the gaming gods that Square Enix has been paying attention to my articles, because I brought up similar points about various payment options recently. If they did then they might have just won me over, again.

Saturday, January 25, 2014

Let's Talk - DLC, Micro-Transactions & Pay-Per-Play

My stance on corporate greed is probably well known amongst the online gaming community by now. The money gouging, and money grubbing practices that have become commonplace have all but sapped out the fun that the gaming industry was once known for, and I've said so myself several times over. While a majority of these money making schemes are inexcusable forms of bullshittery there are some things that I wouldn't mind forking over my hard earned cash for. The DLC that actually rewards the gamer for their gamble on digital only items would be a prime example of such a noteworthy DLC practice. I for one bought every single piece of costume DLC made available for "Soul Calibur V", and ended up investing more money in the game than I initially sunk into it. The DLC for that game was too good to pass up.

Friday, December 6, 2013

MvC3, Tomb Raider & Alice: Madness Returns Minimates (Diamond Select Toys)

Since 1999 "Diamond Select Comics" has been bringing to the forefront toys that cater to a more mature audience. Among their collection you'll find everything from comic book superheroes to movie villains of a vast assortment. Thing's like the sinfully sweet statues of the characters from "Tarot: Witch of the Black Rose" are not out of the question when it comes to Diamond Select's toy production line. This is one of the many reasons I sought to bring reviews on Diamond Select Toy's offerings to your attention. Toys are still very much a happening thing, and as such I know that some of you will be interested in knowing about what's available. Through my shared toy critiques I hope that you gain the knowledge needed to make a smart collector's choice, and that my reviews continue to enlighten you about today's Diamond Select toy offerings. Knowing what's available, and what's of good quality, or rarity are three important things that all toy collectors need to know if they are going to have a noteworthy collection themselves.