A few days ago I played The original Zelda from the NES. The thing is - last year I played Zelda II: The Adventure of Link, which was a gameplay delight, yet some sort of self-torture. I had never played the two original Zelda’s also known as the two hardest and challenging ones. I used save states in the beginning and around dungeons, because I don’t have the time to complete it like in the Nintendo-hard days where the same re-spawning screen and music is burned in your memory. I’ll focus on that game some other time. Now, having played the first zelda, after zelda II is an odd experience : [[MORE]] I can now understand how “LOZ: A link to the past” was such so revolutionary compared its prequels. I feel the same vibe as Mario but it goes a step further. The super nintendo Zelda is a great game, but put into context it’s amazing what a “sequel” really means. No wonder the Japs were obsessed by every “3rd game” in a series. Just like Zelda II, I just love the sword and dungeon gameplay. However, what I obviously point out is that Zelda today is VERY CLOSE to the original. It’s (1) a core element of the first game and (2) what people criticize the franchise for: Overworld > Dungeon > Overworld > Next Dungeon > Overworld > Next dungeon > […] I think it’s not necessarely a bad aspect, but I guess they can’t help it. This is what is Zelda is known for today. This is very apparent as the game mostly consists of those two fucking songs. If I had played this back in the days, this would be an amazing game and a piss-take, like most games in that day.

A few days ago I played The original Zelda from the NES.

The thing is - last year I played Zelda II: The Adventure of Link, which was a gameplay delight, yet some sort of self-torture. I had never played the two original Zelda’s also known as the two hardest and challenging ones. I used save states in the beginning and around dungeons, because I don’t have the time to complete it like in the Nintendo-hard days where the same re-spawning screen and music is burned in your memory. I’ll focus on that game some other time.

Now, having played the first zelda, after zelda II is an odd experience : 

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10 months ago / 4 notes

I finished Mischief Makers (N64)

Last month in the UK, I bought Mischief makers for the n64 in the local retro-store. I’ve heard many good things about the game. But everywhere on the web, they’ll tell you that this game is a hidden gem.

And they’re right. This is a great game.

                  

Here’s the Intro of the game: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjqYN_CFJOo

This game might seem awkward if you think it’s a 3D-game, but I already knew this was a 2D plat former. I knew it was promising, so i saw the game in store, and it was such a steal: - only £10 - box and manual included. Graphically, it might be a bit outdated, compared to other n64 games, but let’s just say 3D-rendered like Yoshi’s Story.

Gameplay wise, you’ll quickly realize this game is all about SHAKE SHAKE!~. Grab, shake and throw, are similar to the Klonoa games, but with more action packed levels. The people behind this game, Treasure, have also made Sin & Punishment and many other games.

The Story is alright, but I enjoyed the villains in this game. There’s an ending that has a countdown. Collect more Golden gems, and you’ll see an extended ending. Here are some screens to give you an idea. In what kind of game do you ride a cat on a missile at super speed, fighting a mecha?

1 year ago / 5 notes

I finished Layton (Spectre’s Call) & LOZ: Skyward Sword

I know. I know these games have come out last year.

I actually pre-ordered Zelda and got it a day before. I just didn’t have enough time to play it. I played half of the game in 2011 and the other half a few days ago. What about Layton? Well, let’s say the game wasn’t ready available when i wanted to play it… *ahem*

Now, Layton was a great experience, and one of the best so far content wise. The story is a great insight on the history. I think most people were disappointed due the sad endings of the last games. This ending is comparable to the first game. I don’t know - people mostly sympathize if something bad happens to humans. Most Layton games emotional parts revolve around “absence” or “losing”. This game had bad timing. Then again, most sources of sadness do that.

Zelda was special. It’s certainly a great return to the great console games. Many things are so memorable. Can you remember something memorable (characters,music) from Twilight princess? It didn’t feel special or unique. Skyloft was a great return to Windfall island. Ganondorf’s role in this game gives a whole different look to the series. It felt different, but just strange. I hope that isn’t a spoiler.

1 year ago / 1 note