Sunday, Jan 7, 2007
Welly welly well, haven't posted a blog in some time, and it does seem odd to be making such a list so late, but I think it's still a good idea.
Starting the list at number 10, and today I'll post games 10 and 9. 10. Viva Pinata - What seemed like a shallow kids game developed by guys who have consistently let their fans down during the past 5 years, actually turned out to be an amazing, deep garden simulator that sports a level of charm that few can resist and that nearly everyone will love. I can excuse it's noticeable flaws, a big one being that it's too complex for most kids but doesn't appeal to many adults either, due to the sheer fun I had with this game. It's clearly a labour of love, and definitely puts back some of my confidence in Rare's ability. It's just a shame that few people bought the game, which I blame on two factors. One, it launch next to Gears of War, which is immediate suicide. And secondly, it's on the wrong system - the 360 appeals to grown men who want mature titles, rather than all-encompassing family games like this. It should be on Wii or PS2, but it's Rare so it's not like it can be. 8.9/10
9. Okami - First thing's first. Yes, this game is very much a Zelda clone. And yes, it is not as good as Zelda. What it is though is a highly stylistic adventure that it very enjoyable and interesting from start to finish. The battle mechanics do become repeititve and easy as the game goes on, and the puzzles are at times too obvious and easy, but for all its flaws, Okami still manages to succeed admirably. The style is so undeniably powerful that even the harshest critics can't help but smile at the world that is Okami, whether it be the incredible visuals (which I for one vote as the best this year), the outstanding soundtrack or the sheer dynamicity of the adventure. The game is long and fulfilling, finely tuned enough that there a few dull moments to be had. It's by no means perfect, but it's still very worthy of your purchase. 9.0/10
I'll post more tomorrow, this will be a daily thing I'll have going.
So, what do you think so far? Do you agree with these picks?
And also, what are your top games of 2006?
Starting the list at number 10, and today I'll post games 10 and 9. 10. Viva Pinata - What seemed like a shallow kids game developed by guys who have consistently let their fans down during the past 5 years, actually turned out to be an amazing, deep garden simulator that sports a level of charm that few can resist and that nearly everyone will love. I can excuse it's noticeable flaws, a big one being that it's too complex for most kids but doesn't appeal to many adults either, due to the sheer fun I had with this game. It's clearly a labour of love, and definitely puts back some of my confidence in Rare's ability. It's just a shame that few people bought the game, which I blame on two factors. One, it launch next to Gears of War, which is immediate suicide. And secondly, it's on the wrong system - the 360 appeals to grown men who want mature titles, rather than all-encompassing family games like this. It should be on Wii or PS2, but it's Rare so it's not like it can be. 8.9/10
9. Okami - First thing's first. Yes, this game is very much a Zelda clone. And yes, it is not as good as Zelda. What it is though is a highly stylistic adventure that it very enjoyable and interesting from start to finish. The battle mechanics do become repeititve and easy as the game goes on, and the puzzles are at times too obvious and easy, but for all its flaws, Okami still manages to succeed admirably. The style is so undeniably powerful that even the harshest critics can't help but smile at the world that is Okami, whether it be the incredible visuals (which I for one vote as the best this year), the outstanding soundtrack or the sheer dynamicity of the adventure. The game is long and fulfilling, finely tuned enough that there a few dull moments to be had. It's by no means perfect, but it's still very worthy of your purchase. 9.0/10
I'll post more tomorrow, this will be a daily thing I'll have going.
So, what do you think so far? Do you agree with these picks?
And also, what are your top games of 2006?
Comments
Page
1
« prev
|
next »
Posted Jan 7, 2007 8:35 pm PT
Page
1
« prev
|
next »
Friends
My Friends
NeonNinja
Viva is a great game, and I think that its great to have it as a 360 title. It ISN'T too complex for kids because my nine-year old cousin has already earned 21 achievements in the game and is claiming it as his favorite 360 game.
A game like Viva helps broaden the scope of games on the 360 and though it didn't sell too well, I'm glad that such a high-quality game was made by Rare. Here's hoping that a few parents will have their eyes peeled for a 360 once it gets a price-drop and a copy of Viva.
Besides, you shouldn't make such generalizations about the 360, most game systems cater to mature males first, and then kids. If anything, Viva Pinata was released a bit too soon, coming next to Gears is just insane, but Viva Pinata is definitely of the best 360 games, and for some people, it IS the best 360 game they've played. It's that good.
As for Okami, I'm more interested in playing that than Twilight Princess, if only because the graphics catch my eye faster than the plug-ugly graphics in Twilight Princes. Though in most of the reviews I've read that combat DOES get repetitive. I haven't played it though, but I'm yearning to get my hands on that game.
Anyway, I would have liked to see more, but I guess I'll have to keep a look out for when the other games are added. i would like to say though that I probably know your #1 game, though I won't spoil it for anyone who doesn't know you as well as I do. As for me, you know my top game is Gears.
Anyway, I look forward to the rest of the list pal.