Games Are Evil contributor, Gabriel M, says, “I bought the PSP on its day of release. Before I had it, I dreamed of holding unbelievably great fun in the palm of my hand. Now, the PSP has matured, and a few specific titles on the system have my undying gratitude and adoration. These games have brought me joy when I waited in the dentists office, or on a long bus trip with my school band. These are my ‘most depended on’ in times of boredom. These are my current PSP favorites.”
God of War: Chains of Olympus is more reminiscent of the original God of War in terms of game play than God of War 2. Like the now-classic PS2 title, it features brutally fun combat and hardware-pushing graphics. However, unlike the PS2 original, Chains of Olympus‘ controls can sometimes be a bit bothersome, but never enough of a problem to stop you from playing.
The story may not be quite as involving and epic as the original, but it is interesting to see what Kratos is up to under the gods’ commands. The puzzles in the game are as satisfying as they come, and new weapons and magic really spice up the experience. The only real problem Chains of Olympus has is that it is really too short. It can be beat in one sitting, clocking in at about 5 hours. Although that is not very impressive, the un-lockable extras and sheer fun you’ll have keep you coming back for more and more and more…
Verdict: Buy It
Two more favorites after the break.
Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror
The original Syphon Filter came out on the PS1 long ago, and it was a critical success, finding a place in many gamers’ hearts and collections. But many years later, in the PS2 generation, Syphon Filter did not get a sequel deserving of the name. Now, however, the series has found new life in the form of Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror for the PSP. Because of the PSP’s lack of a second analog stick, the development team was forced to bring the camera around Gabe Logan’s back. Instant greatness, in this reviewer’s opinion.
Because of this “new perspective,” it is much easier to see everything that is happening on the battlefield. The controls do take a while to get used to, but with several control schemes to choose from, most gamers will find a scheme that fits their playing style. The lock-on and cover systems work well, and you never stick to a wall you don’t want to be behind. The single player campaign is rather lengthy for a portable title, even though the storyline does not completely impress. The in-game graphics are great, and the cut scenes are also very easy on the eyes. The game includes a “mission mode,” so you’ll be playing missions over to unlock new equipment long after you complete the storyline. The game also features an online multi-player mode, which is more fun than I thought it would be. All online modes support up to 8 players, and the game is compatible with the PSP microphone as well. Syphon Filter: Dark Mirror is a remarkable showcase of the PSP’s capabilities, and is a shining example of what portable gaming can be.
Verdict: Buy it.
Lumines
If action gaming isn’t quite your thing, the excellent puzzler Lumines should cover all your needs. The formula for this game is quite familiar, but is compelling all the same. The gameplay involves matching the colors of falling blocks together to make squares of the same color. But the genius of Lumines is in its execution. The graphics are
crisp and delicious. The levels are built around songs, and whatever you do affects the beat and sounds you hear. In other words, if you need something to take you out of reality while you’re sitting on the bus, pop in Lumines and take out your headphones.
The sheer addiction of this stylish puzzler is unsurpassed by any other portable title in this generation, as far as I’ve seen. The single player challenge mode has enough songs ( and provides a great enough challenge) to keep someone busy for many months to come. It also includes a 2 player Vs. mode, which is very fun, either with or without a friend. If you are a puzzle freak, Lumines is definitely a title you don’t want to pass up.
Verdict: Buy It ( you know the drill)
Popularity: 7% [?]
No comments