|
The game takes over control if you don't use them for a moment. I'll be honest and say: I'm not good at video games; if I finish a whole game, which I rarely do, it's because of cheats or a walk through. Allow me to explain.I'll start with the combat. Also, you can set your difficulty level (Easy-Normal-Hard) at any time, too. The game does a good job of easing you into everything though.
This is real-time combat that gets pretty intense sometimes, and the fact that you're fighting with two fighters at the same time makes it's even more intense. He soon finds out he's part of a twisted life-or-death game, that lasts 7 days, and on each day he'll receive a new mission to complete. You control Neku on the bottom screen by using various touching methods to use pins (attacks) on the multitude of monsters you'll fight through-out the game, while simultaneously controlling his partner on the top screen with the D-Pad (or if you're lefty like my, you can use the A, B, X, and Y buttons in the same way). They work together very well, however, which is why playing this game with sound on is a must (many DS players don't). You could actually go through the whole game without using your top screen partner at all. Also, you don't really feel like you have an impact on the characters. Neku is very hard to like at first. This isn't turn-based like many other RPGs.
When first heard of this game a weeks ago, I wasn't sure whether or not it was a good idea to purchase this game because I'm not a hard-core gamer, just an RPG fan really. I'll leave the story at that, if you really want to know more search around for it.Onto the graphics and music, in my opinion, the graphics are good, some songs are great, and others are just weird. In fact, this is the first one I've ever played. He is closed off to the world and somewhat of a jerk.
This may sound intimidating, and it is, at first, but once you understand it you'll go looking for battles. As you advance through the game there will be more to do during combat as well, but again, it isn't forced upon you.One reason I love this game is because of the story. Again, I don't want to ruin the story for all, but basically, it follows Neku, a 15 year-old who just like other people. I'm not a big fan of JRPG (Japanese Role-Playing Game, for those unaware) games by any means. I don't have much else to say, but I never judge a game by its graphics and sound too much.The game provides many things to do outside of battling. Eating foods that increase your stats, after you digest them; clothes that either hinder or power-up your stats, based on the current trends; and the pins systems, which are attacks that you can find and use in battle (there are over 300 to collect). When you start, everything I just mentioned isn't unlocked yet. You actually start combat by just dodging and running away, and slowly get different pins to use to attack.Another great feature is the one that allows you to lower your level (and HP) to increase your chance at getting monster drops.
It's just like you're moving them around, which reminds me of something. So, you can see way I was reluctant to buy this game, if you read of other reviews you'll likely find a description of how hard this game is. If you don't like long cut-scenes with a lot of dialog, don't buy this game.Overall, this is a great game, with a great story and an innovative combat system. Combat is also hardly ever forced, just for bosses and small tasks. He wakes up in a street, without any memories but his name. Later you get the option to retry the battle (with no penalties) on Easy, which is very nice.I guess the only issue I have with this game is sometimes it can feel repetitive, but not very often. One of the best DS games in my opinion.
My one suggestion is if you are new to the genre perhaps starting with something a bit more old school (Say any Final fantasy game) might be a better choice (6 is out on the DS) and then try TWEWY. Came fast, and was worth all the money I spent on it. While I am no stranger to Square(Enix) or their games, TWEWY is a unique and interesting experience with a ton of replay value. It took a lot of mastering and a bit of banging my head against the resident wall to get used to the combat system. :)
Quite possibly one of the best games I have had the pleasure of playing. The mechanics take some getting used to (I hope you like multi-tasking). but once you get the hang of it the game is quite fun. Anyone with a DS should at least try this game.Oh, and the soundtrack is amazing as well.
This game is hard to find and seeing my son enjoy it so much, I'm glad I found it.
I tried this game out on a friend's recommendation last year, and loved everything about it. I recently bought another copy to give to my younger sister so that she can enjoy the game, too. The game is full of style, with beautiful 2D visuals, a great story, unique and fun controls, memorable characters, and a catchy soundtrack.If you want to be immersed in a deep single player experience on the DS, there's no better game than "The World Ends With You".
|
