Review: Starfox Adventures (Gamecube)

Graphics- 10/10
Sound- 9/10
Gameplay- 9.5/10
Replay Value- 6/10
Overall- 9/10

Rare's last game on a Nintendo console shows why the sale of Rare to Microsoft was one of the worst things that could happen to Nintendo. I had forgoten about this game until recently when rediscovered this hidden gem on the old Cube.

This game was popular and well received when it came out, but unfortunately this game seems to have lost its popularity as of late. The game starts out with you playing as Krystal, who is trying to reach Dinosaur Planet when she receives a distress signal, which was sent because General Scales was attacking the planet. Eventually one thing leads to another and the famous Fox McCloud gets evolved. Once you start to play as Fox the game really picks up and gets good. As soon as you start you are given you main weapon that you use throughout the game - you staff...well Krystal's Ex-Staff, which you can upgrade and really pimp out. When you have your first fight you will quickly discover how totally awesome the staff truly is. The combat system in the game is simple enough - you really just have to hit A - but because the moves that are pulled off when you do this look so cool, you don't care how easy it is. The other thing that you should notice during your first fight is the in-game graphics. They are still some of the best graphics on the Cube, even though this game was released in 2002 which is a year after the Gamecube's release. Despite the fact that the graphics looked well, it didn't slow down gameplay when there was multiple enemies. I mean I can not think of on instance of lag. Soon after your first fight you will encounter your new sidekick, Prince Tricky - the dinosaur. He is quite useful, annoying, funny, and adds a unique element to the game.

While you are playing the game more and more tasks you have to accomplish keep piling on, making this game a great time-consumer and even though there is a lot of stuff to do it really doesn't get that confusing. If for some reason it does though, you can always ask Slippy for help and he is sure to tell exactly what to do. You just hit start and Slippy will greet you with a hello and a nice message explaining what you should do. That brings me to another part of the game the voice-acting - it is top notch. A majority of the dialog is spoken, and most of it is very nicely done. There are a few spots were it is a bit over the top and the Dinosaur language used at the beginning of the game can be a bit annoying, but overall it is a fantastic job all around.

While this game is mostly on foot, which is straying away from the original Starfox formula, there are some instances were you need to fly from planet to planet to accomplish you goals and of course the flying is done the original Starfox way. The controls are simple and easy enough, but so is the flying, I mean it's too easy to go from planet to planet, but this is a minor part of the game so it doesn't really matter. Back to what I said earlier - this game is mostly on foot, if you haven't figured that out. Now at first I was a bit hesitant when I heard that, but it works perfectly fine. Will fans of the original Starfox game be disappointed? I wasn't, but if you really liked the flying aspect of the originals, you may be disappointed. However in the end, this is a game that deserves to be revisited by everybody, because it is really a good title, with superior graphics and Voice-acting. This is all not mentioning that Fox has quite the attitude problem, and can be quite comical at times.

Pros: Graphcis, Voice acting, Staff fights, No Lag, Tricky
Cons: Over the top voice acting, Fighting is easy, Tricky.

Review: Dan

Review: Pokémon Diamond* (DS)

Graphics - 9/10
Sound- 9.5/10
Gameplay- 10/10
Replay Value- 9.5/10
Overall- 9/10

This game has really taken off and I'm not surprised. This game plays the same as the original Pokémons and has many great updates. You should definitely consider revisiting the Pokémon games if you have given up on them.

At first I was unsure if I was going to buy the game because I have not been following Pokémon like I used to and do not know many of the new Pokémon. I soon decided to get the game, and boy was it a smart move. I quickly found myself engulfed in the game and I couldn't stop. I played for 10 hours the first two days I had it. I don't know if it was the lack of a good Pokémon game in my life for several years, or the fact that there is just so much to do but I was hooked and still am. The first thing that caught my attention while I was playing was the graphics, there has been a massive update to them that is visible right away. The game looks a lot better than any of the previous games, and the the fact that the DS has a backlight helps (I know the SP did too.) The only problem with the graphics is when you are moving really fast. You can actually see the parts of the buildings jump around a little as the game tries to load them. While this is most likely because of the DS's insanely low refresh rate it will bother at first, but you do get used to it. The other thing that is noticeable is the sound, but not for the same reason as the graphics. The sound effects have stayed almost the same, which I actually like because it reminds me of the original sounds you heard on the Gameboy. The music on the other hand has been updated a little and sounds a bit more sharper and changes more frequently meaning there is more music, and all of it is classic Pokémon sounding music.

Enough of the technical stuff, lets get down to gameplay. It's it what makes the game so good. As I have said it is in the style of the classic Pokémon games, which I guess I should explain for the three people in the world that don't know how it is done. You are on an adventure to fill up your Pokédex and along the way you have to beat the Elite Four, which are the four most powerful trainers in the game. Along the way you have to capture Pokémon and train them by fighting and defeating other wild Pokémon and fellow trainers. The fighting method is turn-based, with the Pokémon that has the highest speed stat striking first. You choose a move that will do damage to the opposing Pokémon based on you level, opponents level, type of Pokémon, And you attack stat along with there defense stat. However it doesn't stop there, you can have certain attacks that will raise your stats or lower your opponents stats in certain ares. This can make certain battles a fight to the end or you may be seeing how quickly you can knock out the foe. The more your Pokémon fight, the more experienced they become, the more they level up, learn new moves and eventually evolve. This system is a fantastic one and it does make the game, its simple yet complicated enough that all types of players will enjoy it. On top of all this the game has great replay value because you Gotta Catch 'em All, so there's another couple of hours added on to your total playing time.

So, what am I trying to say? Pokémon is back? Not quite, but this game is a great game for all of us who fondly remember spending our childhood playing Red or Blue, or even Yellow. The only major complaint that I have with the game is that there is only one game file. I was hoping for three, but it has been one file since the start of the series, so I can't be to disappointed. If you own a Ds, this game is a great pick-up that will keep you entertained for hours.

Pros: Improved graphics, An original Pokémon game, Sound.
Cons: Graphics show off DS's low refresh rate, One save file.


*Review based on Diamond version - Pearl is similar only with different Pokémon

Preview: Starcraft 2

Nearly an entire decade has passed since the release of the original Starcraft, and after much pleading from fans; the official sequel is on its way. With stunning graphics, new and redesigned units, an overhauled online multiplayer, and a big, fat story line; this one looks like it’s packing quite a punch.

If you, hadn’t noticed, Starcraft is huge. With constant tournaments in Korea and fans begging for a sequel, Blizzard had to do it. And it looks even better than imagined. The overhauled graphics are truly stunning. The in game graphics themselves are quite possibly the best in any strategy game. As well, many new units are being developed. Although full info is yet to come, it is known that some new units include an ultra-powerful ship for the Protoss. The redesigned units include some units with shielding and others with transportation abilities. Although the info is light and there is no official release date, the game looks very promising. Here are some screen shots to wet your appetite.







Preview: Vedran

Review: Halo 2 (Xbox*)

Graphics- 10/10
Sound- 10/10
Gameplay 10/10
Replay Value- 10/10
Overall- 10/10

The original Halo put the Xbox on the map. The insults against the Microsoft system couldn't stand against this shocking shooter. And now, Halo's back, and it is SWEET!

Halo 2 basically picks up where the original left off and the Covenant want payback. The game definitely shows of its power in the visuals. First off, expect to see some superb designs. But the game really shines in its graphics, and they are SHINY. The details are wonderfully deep and make the game very realistic. As well, the overall picture and colors are crisp and clean. Besides the actual great graphics, the designs are definitely original and well done. The designs of the human soldiers, weapons, and vehicles are very realistic and are what you would expect them to be in the future. This is very good as it adds to the game's realism. As well, the Covanent designs are alien, imperialistic, and fit the idea of a marauding civilization of space. The environments, too, are quite stunning. Weapons, vehicles, and ammo are placed well throughout the maps. Also, the setup of the levels adds to the strategy of the game with abilities such as flanking your enemies and taking up sniping positions. These designs add to the already superb gameplay.

As you venture through the game, you'll usually find yourself on the move, heart pumping, with your guns constantly dishing out hot lead and searing plasma. You'll be armed with plenty of weapons from the human Battle Rifle to the Covenant Carbine and even from the famous (or infamous for some people) rocket launcher to the new Energy Sword, fresh from the Covenant weapon lineup. As mentioned, you'll be in a near constant state of movement and firefights. This means this game is overflowing with adrenaline. But this game isn't all about the rush, you'll have to make use of smart strategy and quick thinking to survive. The end result is a stunning combination of action and on-the-go planning and choices which makes for great realism. Adding to this is your arsenal. As I said it's quite large and varied. But also, the weapons are made just right, with each one having its own crisp sound and feel. But the burst from a SMG isn't the only good sound here. The music is quite superb, in fact, it's a pretty big highlight. From the start screen to the end credits, orchestral music mixed with a bit of rock and a pinch of techno will drive you through the action. Songs are well placed in the levels to bestow emotions of fear, excitement, and many others. If you don't know already, Halo's music is quite famous, and the same goes for Halo 2's. The tunes will definitely be welcomed by many ears. And don't worry about finishing this game, as the multiplayer is very well built with plentiful and will keep you coming back.

In the end, Halo 2 is a game with stunning graphics and even better gameplay with plenty of options. As well, the soundtrack is powerful, deep, and raises the game to another level. It's no wonder this game is so big.


Pros:Lots of action with many choices on how to fight. Great graphics and designs. Superb music and sound. Great multiplayer.
Cons: None.

Review: Vedran

*Also available for the PC, review for Xbox only.