SunnyFranklin
I would make a joke based on the title about how this game is total chaos but I got on my knees, praying to God thanking Him that instead I can make an ironic one related to how boring this game is.
This game is utterly worthless with some of the most boring and infuriating level design I have ever seen. Might be the worst 2D sonic game I've played in all honesty.
This game is utterly worthless with some of the most boring and infuriating level design I have ever seen. Might be the worst 2D sonic game I've played in all honesty.
Hell and Heaven.
1991
It's iconic classic that's for sure but I feel like it's aged a bit poorly compared to it's squeals. Revisiting the first Sonic is hard with the absence of the spin dash. Not to mention the second, third and especially fourth and sixth stages are tedious to get through for me at least.
2017
(Review originally from Google Reviews)
Whoever gives this game a 5 stars or say it's "underrated", please tell me why. While not the worst, this is my least favorite sonic game for how much it pissed me off with the wasted potential it has. At least with Boom and 06, they went from probably average games to garbage due to some kind of studio interference (Sega rushing it out and BRB being forced to change development from next gen to Wii U).
The only qualities this game has going for it is the tolerable graphics, pretty fun customization system and some of the music. DO NOT BUY THIS GAME AT FULL PRICE! As much as I'd advise against it, if you're truly interested buy this game below half price or something like that. This game can be embarrassingly beat in 2-4 hours. Generations, Colours, Mania were around 5 hours long depending on how fast you do the levels but at least in those games you had interesting side content to make it more repayable. What does Forces have? Episode Shadow is garbage, the red rings are piss easy to find due to the levels having no depth and you can get an S on every level with your eyes closed, but in the end what is the point? If you say this game "isn't that bad", what's the point in playing it when I can get more enjoyment with something like Generations?
I really wish google reviews didn't have a word limit because I can go on and on about how this game is the embodiment of disappointing, so instead I will do quick bullet points:
- Could have been the game that got sonic back in the spotlight after how well Mania did (Mania also cleverly tied into the game).
- Story is utter garbage. The game fails at immersion for how it constantly jumps around with the who, what, when, where and why.
- Despite other Sonic game stories being mediocre, at least you felt like you were progressing somewhere. Here, one moment you're in green hill, the next you're in Eggman's evil lair during a different time. It's so confusing. (Recommended Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cqNw517a-jo )
- Characters that are butchered including Tails, who just cowers in fear for no reason (I thank the writers of IDW sonic for fixing these characters) when Chaos comes in. Eggman has the IQ of a 2 year old (I will send you to null space despite the fact the power of friendship can bust you out!!).
- Cringe inducing dialogue (Green Hill looking more like Sand Hill!).
- Speaking of Chaos, fake hype built up about major villains returning when the likes of Chaos only appearing in one scene which is classic sonic walloping him. Shadow get's his ass kicked by himself. Metal Sonic is a copy paste boss fight of a infinite boss. End of Zavok fight the game finishes him off for you lmfao.
- Infinite is a joke of a character (REEEEE SHADOW BEAT ME! I THROW AWAY MY OLD WEAK SELF BY PUTTING ON MASK! MASK SYMBOLIC LIES AND DIFFERENT IDENTITY ISN'T THAT COOL GUYS?).
- Classic Sonic should have never been in the game. He controls like shit.
- The Modern Sonic and Avatar stages could be fun if the level design wasn't so laughably short and basic. My little brother can design Little Big Planet stages better than this.
- Infuriating amount of QTEs throughout the game.
- Final boss is a THIRD rehash of Colour's final boss.
- One of Classic Sonic's stages has a side scrolling section. A side scrolling section in a Sonic game; let that sink in.
Overall, whoever says this game is underrated or is good are rather drunk or they work for Sega. This game isn't really as good as a lot of people on here are saying; I'd rather have a game so bad it's good than a game that's disappointing to the core.
Closing Remark: Sonic Forces? More like Sonic Forces You To Press Square.
Whoever gives this game a 5 stars or say it's "underrated", please tell me why. While not the worst, this is my least favorite sonic game for how much it pissed me off with the wasted potential it has. At least with Boom and 06, they went from probably average games to garbage due to some kind of studio interference (Sega rushing it out and BRB being forced to change development from next gen to Wii U).
The only qualities this game has going for it is the tolerable graphics, pretty fun customization system and some of the music. DO NOT BUY THIS GAME AT FULL PRICE! As much as I'd advise against it, if you're truly interested buy this game below half price or something like that. This game can be embarrassingly beat in 2-4 hours. Generations, Colours, Mania were around 5 hours long depending on how fast you do the levels but at least in those games you had interesting side content to make it more repayable. What does Forces have? Episode Shadow is garbage, the red rings are piss easy to find due to the levels having no depth and you can get an S on every level with your eyes closed, but in the end what is the point? If you say this game "isn't that bad", what's the point in playing it when I can get more enjoyment with something like Generations?
I really wish google reviews didn't have a word limit because I can go on and on about how this game is the embodiment of disappointing, so instead I will do quick bullet points:
- Could have been the game that got sonic back in the spotlight after how well Mania did (Mania also cleverly tied into the game).
- Story is utter garbage. The game fails at immersion for how it constantly jumps around with the who, what, when, where and why.
- Despite other Sonic game stories being mediocre, at least you felt like you were progressing somewhere. Here, one moment you're in green hill, the next you're in Eggman's evil lair during a different time. It's so confusing. (Recommended Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cqNw517a-jo )
- Characters that are butchered including Tails, who just cowers in fear for no reason (I thank the writers of IDW sonic for fixing these characters) when Chaos comes in. Eggman has the IQ of a 2 year old (I will send you to null space despite the fact the power of friendship can bust you out!!).
- Cringe inducing dialogue (Green Hill looking more like Sand Hill!).
- Speaking of Chaos, fake hype built up about major villains returning when the likes of Chaos only appearing in one scene which is classic sonic walloping him. Shadow get's his ass kicked by himself. Metal Sonic is a copy paste boss fight of a infinite boss. End of Zavok fight the game finishes him off for you lmfao.
- Infinite is a joke of a character (REEEEE SHADOW BEAT ME! I THROW AWAY MY OLD WEAK SELF BY PUTTING ON MASK! MASK SYMBOLIC LIES AND DIFFERENT IDENTITY ISN'T THAT COOL GUYS?).
- Classic Sonic should have never been in the game. He controls like shit.
- The Modern Sonic and Avatar stages could be fun if the level design wasn't so laughably short and basic. My little brother can design Little Big Planet stages better than this.
- Infuriating amount of QTEs throughout the game.
- Final boss is a THIRD rehash of Colour's final boss.
- One of Classic Sonic's stages has a side scrolling section. A side scrolling section in a Sonic game; let that sink in.
Overall, whoever says this game is underrated or is good are rather drunk or they work for Sega. This game isn't really as good as a lot of people on here are saying; I'd rather have a game so bad it's good than a game that's disappointing to the core.
Closing Remark: Sonic Forces? More like Sonic Forces You To Press Square.
It's Sonic 1 but on the Game Boy Advanced!
2018
This game is flawless in every shape and form. Despite the 10/10 and all the positive talk, this game is not for everyone but is absolutely the game to try if you're interested in getting into games that utilise the rouge lite system. In short, what makes this game so good is how much attention to detail went into almost everything. Bullet pointing will be much easier than shoving it into one big paragraph.
- The art style is fantastic. Instantly distinctive with it's mix of hand drawn environments and 3D models that work wonders.
- The music slaps.
- FILLED with fun content.
- The story isn't amazing but it is a very unique take on the tale of Hades, which focuses on his son Zagreus as he wishes to transcend to the surface. Despite his father's attempts to stop him, the Gods of Olympus support the prince in his journey to the top (which links perfectly with the gameplay). Usually Hades is portrayed as an evil individual because OoOoOoOoOo death is evil so Hades must be too! When in this game, he has flaws but has surprisingly understandable motivations for wanting to stop his son. The way the story changes and unfolds is what makes it very engaging. The way the tale is told feels exactly like a mythological tale. This take of Greek mythology has to be one of my favorites.
- You will be dying over and over but it links perfectly with the story and progression.
- The dialogue and voice acting is the best part of the game by far for me at least. Despite being 135 hours in, I am still getting new pieces of dialogue and I almost never skip it for how every piece of speech is interesting to listen to and makes every character distinctive in their own way. With their being TONS of dialogue, all voice acted might I add, with the likes of the bosses you'll encounter, the Greek gods, etc, it makes each run across the underworld feel unique.
- There is almost lots of things to look forward to in this game. Despite there only being 4 stages, the game is dedicated to throwing plenty of abilities, weapons, scenarios and more to make each run different from the last; usually good rouge lite games do this. Not only that but after returning from an escape attempt, there will be new things happening around the hub area as I found it relaxing/satisfying to talk and increase my bonds with the various characters you meet, and use items I collected during runs to upgrade or spruce up the hub. Rouge lites are perfect for possibly playing 1 or 2 runs, taking a break then coming back to do more, unless you're me who likes to binge play.
Overall, I'd recommend anyone giving this game a chance to see if it's for you. For what it is, Hades is a masterpiece.
- The art style is fantastic. Instantly distinctive with it's mix of hand drawn environments and 3D models that work wonders.
- The music slaps.
- FILLED with fun content.
- The story isn't amazing but it is a very unique take on the tale of Hades, which focuses on his son Zagreus as he wishes to transcend to the surface. Despite his father's attempts to stop him, the Gods of Olympus support the prince in his journey to the top (which links perfectly with the gameplay). Usually Hades is portrayed as an evil individual because OoOoOoOoOo death is evil so Hades must be too! When in this game, he has flaws but has surprisingly understandable motivations for wanting to stop his son. The way the story changes and unfolds is what makes it very engaging. The way the tale is told feels exactly like a mythological tale. This take of Greek mythology has to be one of my favorites.
- You will be dying over and over but it links perfectly with the story and progression.
- The dialogue and voice acting is the best part of the game by far for me at least. Despite being 135 hours in, I am still getting new pieces of dialogue and I almost never skip it for how every piece of speech is interesting to listen to and makes every character distinctive in their own way. With their being TONS of dialogue, all voice acted might I add, with the likes of the bosses you'll encounter, the Greek gods, etc, it makes each run across the underworld feel unique.
- There is almost lots of things to look forward to in this game. Despite there only being 4 stages, the game is dedicated to throwing plenty of abilities, weapons, scenarios and more to make each run different from the last; usually good rouge lite games do this. Not only that but after returning from an escape attempt, there will be new things happening around the hub area as I found it relaxing/satisfying to talk and increase my bonds with the various characters you meet, and use items I collected during runs to upgrade or spruce up the hub. Rouge lites are perfect for possibly playing 1 or 2 runs, taking a break then coming back to do more, unless you're me who likes to binge play.
Overall, I'd recommend anyone giving this game a chance to see if it's for you. For what it is, Hades is a masterpiece.
(Review originally posted on Google Reviews. I'm insane ik)
You will see many people give this game 5 stars and justify it by saying "The game play isn't THAT bad!", "It expands on the universe!" or "The main character's duo is interesting!"
In response to this, I say they are rather insane or just a Danganronpa fan (not that there is much difference). To say that this game is 5 stars based on no elaboration is ridiculous. This game is in my top 5 worst of all time and is what made me think Kodaka is a terrible writer.
Graphics: The execution style cut scenes (like a boss' defeat) are pretty as always and the anime style cut scenes are aight, the CG models though are tolerable at best.
Gameplay: While I can see someone sort of having fun with it, I found the game play of shooting very clunky. The variety in enemies and ammunition types is great but you'll be only using two of them (Break and Burn) since they're the only good ones. Combine that with lackluster level design then you're going to be bored throughout. I guess it was fun ripping people to shreds as genocide jack but at that point, why not just make that the entire game play if I am having the most fun with that? On their own, the puzzles are fine but I found the game's pacing very inconsistent when one moment I am shooting through a bland level then the other I am doing a Zero Escape like puzzle. The only puzzles I liked were the ones where you had to utilise different ammunition types.
Music: It's fine. Nothing really stands out as much as the other games though.
Story: The story is what makes this game go from 3 stars to 1 star...
- The dialogue is atrocious as Toko, the horrible representation of DID, will say some random unfunny joke out of nowhere one time and Komaru, the fan service tool, will always preach about how she is a normal girl. Their development is fine I guess but I can't immerse myself in their relationship when everything else about the story is legit trash.
- There is a character who basically confesses/implies he is into little girls and the main characters don't say anything.
- The villains are trash. "Adult did bad thing to me so I hate all adults!" is such a lame motivation. Not to mention this game has some of the worst representation for child abuse I have ever seen in a media, not to mention this game basically sexualises the equivalent to a child. They are all annoying and not interesting at all, except besides the blue haired one I guess.
- Scenes just there for cringe fan service and nothing else (chapter 3 cough cough).
- When I found that the kids were the bad guys, I was so hype to see what Kurokuma's role would be. Would he be an interesting antihero/secondary antagonist? Nah, he's just a lame comedic side role.
- The plot twist at the end is literal garbage, (spoiler warning even tho I still don't recommend this game) Kurokuma and Shirokuma turned out to be more Junko AI's who manipulated both the adults and the kids.
- My main problem with this game's story is how it's ridiculous yet how it wants me to take it seriously. Danganronpa's story is ridiculous already and it would work better if it embraced it's ridiculousness and comedy but the later entries in the series want me to take this ludicrous premise seriously. This is like asking me to take the Bee Movie seriously.
You will see many people give this game 5 stars and justify it by saying "The game play isn't THAT bad!", "It expands on the universe!" or "The main character's duo is interesting!"
In response to this, I say they are rather insane or just a Danganronpa fan (not that there is much difference). To say that this game is 5 stars based on no elaboration is ridiculous. This game is in my top 5 worst of all time and is what made me think Kodaka is a terrible writer.
Graphics: The execution style cut scenes (like a boss' defeat) are pretty as always and the anime style cut scenes are aight, the CG models though are tolerable at best.
Gameplay: While I can see someone sort of having fun with it, I found the game play of shooting very clunky. The variety in enemies and ammunition types is great but you'll be only using two of them (Break and Burn) since they're the only good ones. Combine that with lackluster level design then you're going to be bored throughout. I guess it was fun ripping people to shreds as genocide jack but at that point, why not just make that the entire game play if I am having the most fun with that? On their own, the puzzles are fine but I found the game's pacing very inconsistent when one moment I am shooting through a bland level then the other I am doing a Zero Escape like puzzle. The only puzzles I liked were the ones where you had to utilise different ammunition types.
Music: It's fine. Nothing really stands out as much as the other games though.
Story: The story is what makes this game go from 3 stars to 1 star...
- The dialogue is atrocious as Toko, the horrible representation of DID, will say some random unfunny joke out of nowhere one time and Komaru, the fan service tool, will always preach about how she is a normal girl. Their development is fine I guess but I can't immerse myself in their relationship when everything else about the story is legit trash.
- There is a character who basically confesses/implies he is into little girls and the main characters don't say anything.
- The villains are trash. "Adult did bad thing to me so I hate all adults!" is such a lame motivation. Not to mention this game has some of the worst representation for child abuse I have ever seen in a media, not to mention this game basically sexualises the equivalent to a child. They are all annoying and not interesting at all, except besides the blue haired one I guess.
- Scenes just there for cringe fan service and nothing else (chapter 3 cough cough).
- When I found that the kids were the bad guys, I was so hype to see what Kurokuma's role would be. Would he be an interesting antihero/secondary antagonist? Nah, he's just a lame comedic side role.
- The plot twist at the end is literal garbage, (spoiler warning even tho I still don't recommend this game) Kurokuma and Shirokuma turned out to be more Junko AI's who manipulated both the adults and the kids.
- My main problem with this game's story is how it's ridiculous yet how it wants me to take it seriously. Danganronpa's story is ridiculous already and it would work better if it embraced it's ridiculousness and comedy but the later entries in the series want me to take this ludicrous premise seriously. This is like asking me to take the Bee Movie seriously.
2011
This demon even takes the form of video games. Stay far away.
2012
So the main gimmick of this game is to try and get more points than your friends with brand new levels weekly?
Sounds good, except for the fact you added pay to win mechanics which completely drives the concept into the ground. I work hard to get a high score and then someone gets an even higher score because they bought items to win faster such as the golden slingshot.
Would have worked better as a side mode in the original Angry Birds.
Sounds good, except for the fact you added pay to win mechanics which completely drives the concept into the ground. I work hard to get a high score and then someone gets an even higher score because they bought items to win faster such as the golden slingshot.
Would have worked better as a side mode in the original Angry Birds.
I really REALLY wanted to like this one. As soon as I saw the announcement that a new Drawn to Life was coming, my feet turned into rockets as I blasted myself to the moon.
Then I saw the trailer and, upon playing the game, it seems a few of my concerns leading up to the game came true. The music and art are on point as they capture the essence and charm of the original DS game perfectly, so much so I could feel the nostalgia coming like a ton of bricks. Even if the story doesn't seem interesting this time round, I was just glad to see the characters I grew up with as a kid again in all their glory.
Why oh WHY did they change the gameplay though? The gameplay is what made Drawn to Life what it is and while the original DS gameplay's platforming kinda sucked, I still loved the amount of meme potential that came out of whatever I could draw. The only things you draw to "bring to life" is your hero and things in the over world.
The gameplay this time round has been turned into some puzzle platformer where you place down toys, aka enemies, in order to reach the goal. For example you might be able to reach a higher place by jumping on an enemies head which is higher than your normal jump. As part of the story when someone is facing some kind of negativity, you pull out your "book of dreams" or something like that, get thrown into these mediocre platform levels (with random backgrounds) and then BAM, after completing it you have made them positive!
The gameplay and UI of the game made the experience feel like an average mobile puzzle game with Drawn to Life slapped on it (and ironically enough this was released for mobile). Even if the gameplay concept wasn't boring, I'd still feel disappointed because this isn't what drawn to life is about. It's about going on an adventure and drawing various things in the levels like platforms, tools, etc. The fact that you get thrown into random levels which look like different locations removes the immersion for me personally and is why I haven't went back to playing this game.
It's a big shame because I can feel a lot of passion went into making the music and the art, and I can tell they wanted to make something original. However, if you want to make an original game then don't make it a squeal to Drawn to Life. I wouldn't be this upset if they didn't advertise it as the "next installment" because this feels more like a spin off than a proper squeal. I have no problem with new features getting implemented to make a squeal more distinguishable but there is a difference between that and changing the gameplay entirely.
Overall, I'd only recommend for die hard Drawn to Life fans though keep your expectations low. I am heavily considering just watching the story on Youtube instead.
Then I saw the trailer and, upon playing the game, it seems a few of my concerns leading up to the game came true. The music and art are on point as they capture the essence and charm of the original DS game perfectly, so much so I could feel the nostalgia coming like a ton of bricks. Even if the story doesn't seem interesting this time round, I was just glad to see the characters I grew up with as a kid again in all their glory.
Why oh WHY did they change the gameplay though? The gameplay is what made Drawn to Life what it is and while the original DS gameplay's platforming kinda sucked, I still loved the amount of meme potential that came out of whatever I could draw. The only things you draw to "bring to life" is your hero and things in the over world.
The gameplay this time round has been turned into some puzzle platformer where you place down toys, aka enemies, in order to reach the goal. For example you might be able to reach a higher place by jumping on an enemies head which is higher than your normal jump. As part of the story when someone is facing some kind of negativity, you pull out your "book of dreams" or something like that, get thrown into these mediocre platform levels (with random backgrounds) and then BAM, after completing it you have made them positive!
The gameplay and UI of the game made the experience feel like an average mobile puzzle game with Drawn to Life slapped on it (and ironically enough this was released for mobile). Even if the gameplay concept wasn't boring, I'd still feel disappointed because this isn't what drawn to life is about. It's about going on an adventure and drawing various things in the levels like platforms, tools, etc. The fact that you get thrown into random levels which look like different locations removes the immersion for me personally and is why I haven't went back to playing this game.
It's a big shame because I can feel a lot of passion went into making the music and the art, and I can tell they wanted to make something original. However, if you want to make an original game then don't make it a squeal to Drawn to Life. I wouldn't be this upset if they didn't advertise it as the "next installment" because this feels more like a spin off than a proper squeal. I have no problem with new features getting implemented to make a squeal more distinguishable but there is a difference between that and changing the gameplay entirely.
Overall, I'd only recommend for die hard Drawn to Life fans though keep your expectations low. I am heavily considering just watching the story on Youtube instead.
What's that? You want to play Drawn to Life? You found this collection for a cheap price? Good on you, now DON'T BUY IT!
I'm still giving it 1 star because it's, well, Drawn to Life but this review is to illustrate my frustration on a specific change made to this collection and not the games themselves. I should have separate reviews on those games.
Without spoiling anything, they changed the ending of the second game because apparently the ending of the second game is too dark. But this new ending makes LITERALLY EVERYTHING THAT HAPPENS IN THE ENTIRE SERIES FEEL WEIGHTLESS. Once you finish the games, look up "Drawn to Life 2 Alternative Ending" and you'll see what I am talking about. Quite possibly one of the worst ending changes I have ever seen to any media.
I'm still giving it 1 star because it's, well, Drawn to Life but this review is to illustrate my frustration on a specific change made to this collection and not the games themselves. I should have separate reviews on those games.
Without spoiling anything, they changed the ending of the second game because apparently the ending of the second game is too dark. But this new ending makes LITERALLY EVERYTHING THAT HAPPENS IN THE ENTIRE SERIES FEEL WEIGHTLESS. Once you finish the games, look up "Drawn to Life 2 Alternative Ending" and you'll see what I am talking about. Quite possibly one of the worst ending changes I have ever seen to any media.
As a normal game, I'd probably give this a 8 or 7. When judging this as a mystery dungeon game, it gets a solid 9. This game wasn't favored when it came out due to it basically being a Pokemon Platinum for Time and Darkness so it was judged based on how much new content it added. Whilst I'd say the new content added is amazing, I can understand the criticism of charging full price for what can feel like a game expansion (Monster Hunter and Persona 5 Royal got some kind of criticism for this in some ways too). At the time of release, this game might not have been worth it for the people who have already played the original two Explorers games.
Fortunately, we're now in a time where I can 100% recommend this game to A) anyone who has played Time or Darkness but hasn't played it in ages, this game is your excuse to play it again but with cool new content (including special episodes which expands on more of the side characters), and B) people who are wanting to get into the series.
Upon playing this recently and No More Heroes 3, I have learnt that some of the games I like are an acquired taste and I honestly think that applies for a lot of games. Am I saying the best games have some aspects to enjoy for everyone? Maybe. Maybe I am also saying the best games are good because they do what they do best.
I am getting too philosophical here so for the game itself, it remains to this day the definitive Mystery Dungeon experience:
- Despite containing plot about time travel, the story is never confusing and surprisingly lacks any plot holes. The only time I questioned stuff was how the exact time travel rules worked but that is just me being over analytical. I appreciate how they managed to make that sweet, simple, wholesome Mystery Dungeon story despite time travel topics usually being very all over the place.
- Bare in mind when I say this story is outstanding, I mostly mean for Pokemon standards. On it's own, it is still a very gripping story in my opinion.
- I love stories like CrossCode that involve all the characters as they gradually build up to the final climax. It actually makes me feel like I am going on a grand adventure rather than a bumpkin weekend trip. While certainly not as impacting as a kid or on first play through, Explorers of Sky's story manages to give you the feeling you are going on a journey with mysteries, character revelations, thwarting bad guys, all that jazz. To put it short, it never once feels underwhelming which is a problem a lot of other games have I feel; I hate it when things are built up only for it to feel anticlimactic (looking at you Crossing Souls).
- The emotional aspect drives hard with the help from the soundtrack in my opinion. The story is good as it is but without the music it wouldn't be the same. The music in this game is an actual banger. From emotional, to dancing and then to feeling epic, this soundtrack has got you covered.
- The gameplay makes me want to pull my hair out sometimes (fuck monster house rooms where the stairs are at) but the reason I enjoy the gameplay in this series is because of the risk factor involved, even if there is a slight chance it is unfair. I can't really describe why I like the gameplay but I think it's best to look at it and judge for yourself to see if it's up your alley.
- There is so much to do after you have completed the main story it's insane. Not only is the post game basically a story continuation but it also opens up new locations to explore, Legendary Pokemon to recruit, etc. It's sad that the friend areas from the original don't make a return here but I don't mind it that much (sniff).
- This game ditches the billions of 99 floor dungeons that Blue/Red Rescue Team liked to shove down our throats and I couldn't be more glad. I like dungeons that are sweetly short and not a long drag.
- Some of the characters in this are massive memes.
- Fun Fact: this game's story is better than most Pokemon game stories, possibly close to Black and White.
To sum it all up, this is a must play for any Mystery Dungeon fan in general. Ever wanted an actual good Pokemon story? Well if the gameplay puts you off you can always watch it on YouTube, though I will confess it doesn't have the same impact because you are seeing someone else's chosen and partner Pokemon instead of your own. With that said, I especially encourage anyone a fan of Pokemon (especially stories) to check this out if they haven't already.
As a closing remark, how much I've talked about it should show how much I adore this game.
Fortunately, we're now in a time where I can 100% recommend this game to A) anyone who has played Time or Darkness but hasn't played it in ages, this game is your excuse to play it again but with cool new content (including special episodes which expands on more of the side characters), and B) people who are wanting to get into the series.
Upon playing this recently and No More Heroes 3, I have learnt that some of the games I like are an acquired taste and I honestly think that applies for a lot of games. Am I saying the best games have some aspects to enjoy for everyone? Maybe. Maybe I am also saying the best games are good because they do what they do best.
I am getting too philosophical here so for the game itself, it remains to this day the definitive Mystery Dungeon experience:
- Despite containing plot about time travel, the story is never confusing and surprisingly lacks any plot holes. The only time I questioned stuff was how the exact time travel rules worked but that is just me being over analytical. I appreciate how they managed to make that sweet, simple, wholesome Mystery Dungeon story despite time travel topics usually being very all over the place.
- Bare in mind when I say this story is outstanding, I mostly mean for Pokemon standards. On it's own, it is still a very gripping story in my opinion.
- I love stories like CrossCode that involve all the characters as they gradually build up to the final climax. It actually makes me feel like I am going on a grand adventure rather than a bumpkin weekend trip. While certainly not as impacting as a kid or on first play through, Explorers of Sky's story manages to give you the feeling you are going on a journey with mysteries, character revelations, thwarting bad guys, all that jazz. To put it short, it never once feels underwhelming which is a problem a lot of other games have I feel; I hate it when things are built up only for it to feel anticlimactic (looking at you Crossing Souls).
- The emotional aspect drives hard with the help from the soundtrack in my opinion. The story is good as it is but without the music it wouldn't be the same. The music in this game is an actual banger. From emotional, to dancing and then to feeling epic, this soundtrack has got you covered.
- The gameplay makes me want to pull my hair out sometimes (fuck monster house rooms where the stairs are at) but the reason I enjoy the gameplay in this series is because of the risk factor involved, even if there is a slight chance it is unfair. I can't really describe why I like the gameplay but I think it's best to look at it and judge for yourself to see if it's up your alley.
- There is so much to do after you have completed the main story it's insane. Not only is the post game basically a story continuation but it also opens up new locations to explore, Legendary Pokemon to recruit, etc. It's sad that the friend areas from the original don't make a return here but I don't mind it that much (sniff).
- This game ditches the billions of 99 floor dungeons that Blue/Red Rescue Team liked to shove down our throats and I couldn't be more glad. I like dungeons that are sweetly short and not a long drag.
- Some of the characters in this are massive memes.
- Fun Fact: this game's story is better than most Pokemon game stories, possibly close to Black and White.
To sum it all up, this is a must play for any Mystery Dungeon fan in general. Ever wanted an actual good Pokemon story? Well if the gameplay puts you off you can always watch it on YouTube, though I will confess it doesn't have the same impact because you are seeing someone else's chosen and partner Pokemon instead of your own. With that said, I especially encourage anyone a fan of Pokemon (especially stories) to check this out if they haven't already.
As a closing remark, how much I've talked about it should show how much I adore this game.
This review contains spoilers
Case 1:
The reason this case is one of my favourites in the series is because it introduces you into Ace Attorney's main fun aspect in a decent amount of time. If I ever want to show people I think may like this sort of game, I can let them complete the first case within a short amount of time (30 to 40 mins) and they get a lot within that time span. What I consider to be the main fun aspect of Ace Attorney is the great deal of satisfaction you get after proving someone's bullshit wrong which leads to them sweating or panicking.
Case 2:
Things immediately get interesting when your mentor dies. While a few may see this coming, I didn't expect it to be done the way it did, and it ended up proving to be a great narrative choice for the series. Not truly amazing but still a very fun case.
Case 3:
Can be considered a filler case but still has important character moments. I very much liked how this one unraveled. My only problem is that one of the characters here is cringe and not funny.
Case 4:
Now we're getting to some good shit. I actually thought Edgeworth did it when I first saw the intro, it does a great job at grabbing your attention immediately with the bombshell it just drops. Even though the killer is obvious, it doesn't make such a big deal out of it. This case mostly shines through Edgeworth and Phoenix because not only is it the first proper time we learn more about their characters, the development they go through, as well as Maya, are top notch. Not to mention we get the meme lord known as Von Karma ("The PERFECT Crime!!! The PERFECT Trial!!!). Not the best final case but definitely a really solid one.
Overall:
This is the most consistent entry in the original trilogy in my opinion because all the cases here feel interconnected (even the third case to some extent) and it feels like a complete story. There isn't a single case here I'd consider bad.
The music is also really iconic and a massive bop.
(I am not counting Rise from the Ashes in this one)
The reason this case is one of my favourites in the series is because it introduces you into Ace Attorney's main fun aspect in a decent amount of time. If I ever want to show people I think may like this sort of game, I can let them complete the first case within a short amount of time (30 to 40 mins) and they get a lot within that time span. What I consider to be the main fun aspect of Ace Attorney is the great deal of satisfaction you get after proving someone's bullshit wrong which leads to them sweating or panicking.
Case 2:
Things immediately get interesting when your mentor dies. While a few may see this coming, I didn't expect it to be done the way it did, and it ended up proving to be a great narrative choice for the series. Not truly amazing but still a very fun case.
Case 3:
Can be considered a filler case but still has important character moments. I very much liked how this one unraveled. My only problem is that one of the characters here is cringe and not funny.
Case 4:
Now we're getting to some good shit. I actually thought Edgeworth did it when I first saw the intro, it does a great job at grabbing your attention immediately with the bombshell it just drops. Even though the killer is obvious, it doesn't make such a big deal out of it. This case mostly shines through Edgeworth and Phoenix because not only is it the first proper time we learn more about their characters, the development they go through, as well as Maya, are top notch. Not to mention we get the meme lord known as Von Karma ("The PERFECT Crime!!! The PERFECT Trial!!!). Not the best final case but definitely a really solid one.
Overall:
This is the most consistent entry in the original trilogy in my opinion because all the cases here feel interconnected (even the third case to some extent) and it feels like a complete story. There isn't a single case here I'd consider bad.
The music is also really iconic and a massive bop.
(I am not counting Rise from the Ashes in this one)
This review contains spoilers
Case 1:
Like how Pheonix got amnesia, this one is quite forgettable. It's okay but it doesn't hold a candle to The First Turnabout. This feels as if it was made to introduce the mechanics again.
Case 2:
Pretty decent. I felt like the investigation was got me lost at points and it introduces a really cringe character (Dr Hotti) that I hope will burn into the sun. The killer's entire story was okay but I was mainly interested in how the trials took place because it was the first time we get to see Maya's home village and it's really interesting to learn more about how this spirit medium family runs. The fact this is more so setting up Bridge to the Turnabout makes me like it even more. The introduction of the Psyche-Lock mechanic is a good way of making the player more engaged in investigations.
Case 3:
I don't think this one is as bad as people say to be honest. The case can feel really silly at points like how the cape coincidentally fell off the ringleader's waist and fell onto the bust but I didn't mind such an absurd mystery due to the setting being a circus. This is just personal preference but I actually liked the characters in this one (except the defendant being unlikable a bit and having a horrible design but he changes towards the end). I found the ventriloquist to be hilarious, the clown I liked for having a serious side to him, and just the other characters in general I didn't mind at all. I thought the end was pretty wholesome and unraveling the entire mystery behind the circus had me unironically engaged. I am a bit mixed still though for some moments in the trial, character moments and investigation being really stupid, like how some of the characters plan to propose to a 16 year old which is really poggers. I have also heard some good points on how the killer's motivation could have been sorted if he simply talked it out to someone; I can understand if someone finds this case a massive bundle of wasted potential. This filler case isn't as good as Turnabout Samurai but at least it's better than The Lost Turnabout.
Case 4:
What the fuck. I was on the verge of giving this game a much lower score until this case. This case is my second favourite in the entire franchise and it's not hard to see why. This case shines because of how it pushes Pheonix's character to his limits, the stakes are completely off the wall in this one. At first it seems really simple but by the end of the first trial it proves itself to be more bigger in scale. Phoenix is at his best in this one because it explores what it means to be a lawyer to him personally and it's executed perfectly. The investigations were engaging, the trials were beyond fun, it is paced amazingly, I honestly can't put it into words how much I liked this case. It manages to do so much in one case and the other forms of development different characters go through (Edgeworth, Gumshoe, Pearls, Maya, Von Karma, Andrea Andrews, etc) are really exceptional. To top it off, it has one of the most satisfying breakdowns in the entire series. Matt Engarde is the catalyst for making Phoenix morally question himself while Shelly De Killer is the catalyst for the stakes being as high as they are - it's bad enough that the judge is pestering Wright for the trial to end sooner.
Overall:
The worst out of the original trilogy but it isn't bad by all means. Even the worst case being the first one is still enjoyable, but I found a majority of these cases besides the last one to be lacking in comparison to the first game and the excellent cases in the third game. That last case though... Oh my god, that took me by surprise. The last case alone makes this game's score higher than I originally was intending it to be.
I wasn't to keen on the soundtrack in this one too. The first and third game have some bangers but nothing really sticks out to me in this one.
Like how Pheonix got amnesia, this one is quite forgettable. It's okay but it doesn't hold a candle to The First Turnabout. This feels as if it was made to introduce the mechanics again.
Case 2:
Pretty decent. I felt like the investigation was got me lost at points and it introduces a really cringe character (Dr Hotti) that I hope will burn into the sun. The killer's entire story was okay but I was mainly interested in how the trials took place because it was the first time we get to see Maya's home village and it's really interesting to learn more about how this spirit medium family runs. The fact this is more so setting up Bridge to the Turnabout makes me like it even more. The introduction of the Psyche-Lock mechanic is a good way of making the player more engaged in investigations.
Case 3:
I don't think this one is as bad as people say to be honest. The case can feel really silly at points like how the cape coincidentally fell off the ringleader's waist and fell onto the bust but I didn't mind such an absurd mystery due to the setting being a circus. This is just personal preference but I actually liked the characters in this one (except the defendant being unlikable a bit and having a horrible design but he changes towards the end). I found the ventriloquist to be hilarious, the clown I liked for having a serious side to him, and just the other characters in general I didn't mind at all. I thought the end was pretty wholesome and unraveling the entire mystery behind the circus had me unironically engaged. I am a bit mixed still though for some moments in the trial, character moments and investigation being really stupid, like how some of the characters plan to propose to a 16 year old which is really poggers. I have also heard some good points on how the killer's motivation could have been sorted if he simply talked it out to someone; I can understand if someone finds this case a massive bundle of wasted potential. This filler case isn't as good as Turnabout Samurai but at least it's better than The Lost Turnabout.
Case 4:
What the fuck. I was on the verge of giving this game a much lower score until this case. This case is my second favourite in the entire franchise and it's not hard to see why. This case shines because of how it pushes Pheonix's character to his limits, the stakes are completely off the wall in this one. At first it seems really simple but by the end of the first trial it proves itself to be more bigger in scale. Phoenix is at his best in this one because it explores what it means to be a lawyer to him personally and it's executed perfectly. The investigations were engaging, the trials were beyond fun, it is paced amazingly, I honestly can't put it into words how much I liked this case. It manages to do so much in one case and the other forms of development different characters go through (Edgeworth, Gumshoe, Pearls, Maya, Von Karma, Andrea Andrews, etc) are really exceptional. To top it off, it has one of the most satisfying breakdowns in the entire series. Matt Engarde is the catalyst for making Phoenix morally question himself while Shelly De Killer is the catalyst for the stakes being as high as they are - it's bad enough that the judge is pestering Wright for the trial to end sooner.
Overall:
The worst out of the original trilogy but it isn't bad by all means. Even the worst case being the first one is still enjoyable, but I found a majority of these cases besides the last one to be lacking in comparison to the first game and the excellent cases in the third game. That last case though... Oh my god, that took me by surprise. The last case alone makes this game's score higher than I originally was intending it to be.
I wasn't to keen on the soundtrack in this one too. The first and third game have some bangers but nothing really sticks out to me in this one.
This review contains spoilers
Case 1:
After the first case in Justice For All being pretty pants in comparison to the one in the first game, I was pretty nervous about this one but not only is the concept for this case genius but the entire mystery that is set up is an overarching mystery that'll be present throughout the game.
Starting off with the concept, taking a look into the past with Mia's first trial (well it's not really her first but you know what I mean) is a great way to give another tutorial since it makes sense that Grossberg (always nice to see the man behind the slaughter once again) and being able to play as Mia was a nice surprise. Not only that but we get to see a peek into character lore like how Mia met Phoenix, what Mia was like as a rookie lawyer, what drove Phoenix to start becoming a lawyer, how Payne lost his hair, etc.
Unlike the previous first cases, the way this one unraveled had me engaged from start to finish because it felt like something they were setting up to be an overarching mystery and I was right. For the first time it didn't feel like a filler case because I felt like there had to be a reason for it to be a flashback. Dahlia is a fantastic villain to hate; I could feel her bitter rivalry with Mia the first time they clashed. Unlike the weasel from The Lost Turnabout, I felt like Dahlia's presence was of severe importance to the story.
Overall for a first case it really blew my socks off for how everything aligned so well here. Trials and Tribulations is off to a great start.
Case 2:
After getting pumped from the fantastic first case, the second case left me mixed. I find the concept interesting, I loved Andrea Andrew's return, Luke Atmey is hysterical, Larry Butz's involvement was a meme and there was other aspects I really liked. Godot's introduction was amazing because he comes out of nowhere which is the entire point of his character. I don't really have much to say on this one to be honest other than "I like it" but it felt weird all of a sudden for the game to slip back to the same decent quality Justice For All brought, especially after that amazing first case. I wasn't all to fond of the defendant either.
Case 3:
The worst case in the original trilogy because it's the only one where I was truly perplexed by how absurd some of the plot points where. You're telling me this big muscular tiger man fooled everyone in the courtroom with a fake cardboard attorney badge and a similar hairstyle? They went through all that trouble setting up a time, disguise and more just o produce a witness with that old man? I am aware Ace Attorney has it's satirical moments but since this is a major plot point, I start to question the actual levity of it which takes me out of the immersion. At least all the absurdities Luke Atmey did I didn't fully question. I don't feel like the idea of a phony Phoenix Wright is pointless because I think they did it to establish the fact that Furio Tigre is willing to disguise himself but it still feels like wasted potential.
I feel like this should have stuck with the concept of Phoenix losing a trial and then getting a second chance. Though it might have been hard to pull off, I feel like maybe it could then proceed to Pheonix getting a second chance due to new discoveries, then he could recap the case to himself so the player knows what has happened so far. While not perfect, I think this would lead into some interesting scenarios like what would happen if a defense attorney didn't have access to opportunities to carve a path towards the truth (missing a potential piece of evidence for example). It could have also gave Godot another reason to bash Wright even more.
Overall this filler case is carried by Godot, the humorous writing (this case is unironically and ironically one of the funniest cases), some interesting individuals and banger music (Furio Tigre theme slaps). Whilst having some really wacky and interesting character moments, I recommend turning your brain off for this case.
Case 4:
After a decent second case and a sort of mediocre but enjoyable third case, I was feeling a little disappointed with Trials and Tribulations due to hearing a lot of people say this is the best in the trilogy. I was surprised to learn that the fourth case here wasn't the final one in the game which made me interested and as soon as it showed Phoenix looking at Mia's first case, I jumped up in excitement. A look into the past once again shows Mia's actual first case which sheds light on how Mia encountered Dahlia, Edgeworth's first time prosecuting, Godot's first time as a defense attorney (which took me by surprise) and more.
This case is short but I legit couldn't care less when it is hitting me in the feels so hard. I just knew the last case was gonna slap even harder.
Case 5:
My third favourite in the entire series. Apart from a couple of very minor nitpicks like how it took them a day to get a new bridge across to an area a child was stuck at (You know? In danger?), why didn't they call a helicopter or something? I also thought I wouldn't like the use of the spiritual medium concept because of the major significance it plays in this case, but I ended up liking it a ton.
To be honest I don't really need to explain why this case is considered one of the best. It ties everything together perfectly and involves all the characters in really cool ways like how you get to play as Edgeworth in the first trial. I also don't need to explain how Godot is wonderful too, he is one of my favourite video game antagonists. Whilst I personally like Justice For All's last case because of Phoenix's development and how it was done (as well as the high stakes), this case is better for being an amazing all in one package that truly feels like a final.
Overall:
This was a massive toss up between this and the first game but I believe this is the best one due to how every story beats are brought together perfectly in the game's first, fourth and final case. Even the second and third case still shined through the characters we already know, and the music is also a massive improvement over Justice For All.
After the first case in Justice For All being pretty pants in comparison to the one in the first game, I was pretty nervous about this one but not only is the concept for this case genius but the entire mystery that is set up is an overarching mystery that'll be present throughout the game.
Starting off with the concept, taking a look into the past with Mia's first trial (well it's not really her first but you know what I mean) is a great way to give another tutorial since it makes sense that Grossberg (always nice to see the man behind the slaughter once again) and being able to play as Mia was a nice surprise. Not only that but we get to see a peek into character lore like how Mia met Phoenix, what Mia was like as a rookie lawyer, what drove Phoenix to start becoming a lawyer, how Payne lost his hair, etc.
Unlike the previous first cases, the way this one unraveled had me engaged from start to finish because it felt like something they were setting up to be an overarching mystery and I was right. For the first time it didn't feel like a filler case because I felt like there had to be a reason for it to be a flashback. Dahlia is a fantastic villain to hate; I could feel her bitter rivalry with Mia the first time they clashed. Unlike the weasel from The Lost Turnabout, I felt like Dahlia's presence was of severe importance to the story.
Overall for a first case it really blew my socks off for how everything aligned so well here. Trials and Tribulations is off to a great start.
Case 2:
After getting pumped from the fantastic first case, the second case left me mixed. I find the concept interesting, I loved Andrea Andrew's return, Luke Atmey is hysterical, Larry Butz's involvement was a meme and there was other aspects I really liked. Godot's introduction was amazing because he comes out of nowhere which is the entire point of his character. I don't really have much to say on this one to be honest other than "I like it" but it felt weird all of a sudden for the game to slip back to the same decent quality Justice For All brought, especially after that amazing first case. I wasn't all to fond of the defendant either.
Case 3:
The worst case in the original trilogy because it's the only one where I was truly perplexed by how absurd some of the plot points where. You're telling me this big muscular tiger man fooled everyone in the courtroom with a fake cardboard attorney badge and a similar hairstyle? They went through all that trouble setting up a time, disguise and more just o produce a witness with that old man? I am aware Ace Attorney has it's satirical moments but since this is a major plot point, I start to question the actual levity of it which takes me out of the immersion. At least all the absurdities Luke Atmey did I didn't fully question. I don't feel like the idea of a phony Phoenix Wright is pointless because I think they did it to establish the fact that Furio Tigre is willing to disguise himself but it still feels like wasted potential.
I feel like this should have stuck with the concept of Phoenix losing a trial and then getting a second chance. Though it might have been hard to pull off, I feel like maybe it could then proceed to Pheonix getting a second chance due to new discoveries, then he could recap the case to himself so the player knows what has happened so far. While not perfect, I think this would lead into some interesting scenarios like what would happen if a defense attorney didn't have access to opportunities to carve a path towards the truth (missing a potential piece of evidence for example). It could have also gave Godot another reason to bash Wright even more.
Overall this filler case is carried by Godot, the humorous writing (this case is unironically and ironically one of the funniest cases), some interesting individuals and banger music (Furio Tigre theme slaps). Whilst having some really wacky and interesting character moments, I recommend turning your brain off for this case.
Case 4:
After a decent second case and a sort of mediocre but enjoyable third case, I was feeling a little disappointed with Trials and Tribulations due to hearing a lot of people say this is the best in the trilogy. I was surprised to learn that the fourth case here wasn't the final one in the game which made me interested and as soon as it showed Phoenix looking at Mia's first case, I jumped up in excitement. A look into the past once again shows Mia's actual first case which sheds light on how Mia encountered Dahlia, Edgeworth's first time prosecuting, Godot's first time as a defense attorney (which took me by surprise) and more.
This case is short but I legit couldn't care less when it is hitting me in the feels so hard. I just knew the last case was gonna slap even harder.
Case 5:
My third favourite in the entire series. Apart from a couple of very minor nitpicks like how it took them a day to get a new bridge across to an area a child was stuck at (You know? In danger?), why didn't they call a helicopter or something? I also thought I wouldn't like the use of the spiritual medium concept because of the major significance it plays in this case, but I ended up liking it a ton.
To be honest I don't really need to explain why this case is considered one of the best. It ties everything together perfectly and involves all the characters in really cool ways like how you get to play as Edgeworth in the first trial. I also don't need to explain how Godot is wonderful too, he is one of my favourite video game antagonists. Whilst I personally like Justice For All's last case because of Phoenix's development and how it was done (as well as the high stakes), this case is better for being an amazing all in one package that truly feels like a final.
Overall:
This was a massive toss up between this and the first game but I believe this is the best one due to how every story beats are brought together perfectly in the game's first, fourth and final case. Even the second and third case still shined through the characters we already know, and the music is also a massive improvement over Justice For All.