DRAGON BALL Z 2

Legend Title to all those who have experienced the explosion of Dragon Ball Z in the mid-90s, The Legend Saien will soon be back on his 3DS. It is indeed the ultimate game compilation intended for J-Legend Retsuden, a cartridge which meets several licensed titles released on the NES and Super Nintendo in Japan.

Probably reserved for import to a rights issue, this game 3DS includes among others two sets of Saint Seiya the Famicom, the first Dragon Ball NES released in France, or a game of Yu Yu Hakusho SFC at the time were still talking of Namcot. Japan planned release on November 7.

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The Legend of Zelda : A Link Between Worlds

An impression of seeing an old friend not seen for over 20 years ... This is the first feeling of the player when entering this new adventure of Link that is a direct response to the monumental The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, released Super Nintendo in 1992. After about two hours of play, 3DS propped in hand, the question seems not allowed: this gaming travel appears simply magnificent ..


                


The adventure begins with a dream of Link, pretty way to ensure a smooth transition between the two games. Recovered from his emotions, the boy left his room and joined the local blacksmith who gave him his first mission : bring the captain of the guards sword he has forgotten. Along the way , Link finds himself quickly involved in the rescue of a young girl trapped in a sanctuary. Therefore, our hero will not cease to travel within the realms of Hyrule and later Lorule (which are parallel ) to meet all more familiar , wacky or dangerous one than the other characters. A course starting with Princess Zelda and the villain of the piece , Yuga , which, thanks to its great power , wants to free Ganon . But many secondary characters are also important . As Irene , a very nice witch you can call by ringing a bell : it then transports you free on her broom to one of the save points on the map that you have used . Wonderfully convenient ! There is also the villagers Kakarico (aka Cocorico - the names were in English in the demo , but will of course be translated in the end) , as the gravedigger or fortuneteller . Not to mention several essential merchants to buy refills of life , weapons (such as the shield ) or bonuses (such as Fruit Scoot which teleports you directly to the entrance of the dungeon where you are) . And finally there was the purple rabbit Lavio , peddler , who lives at Link and he praises its objects ...

Revenue Lavio ( li )

Hammer , bow, boomerang, fire stick , grapple, stick wind bombs ... objects / weapons available from Lavio - in exchange for a handful of rubies - are needed to enter the dungeons and face the boss. Indeed, whenever new dungeons appear on the map , a symbol on a tower at the entrance to one of the corresponding objects in Lavio . At the beginning of the adventure, when you finish the first dungeon , two new ones appear . You are free to choose whatever you want . The south is available after learning to swim with a particular character , while the north opens when you are equipped with the hammer - for rent with Lavio - to push the tree trunks blocking the entrance. It is also advisable to keep this special item for exploration because it also serves to kill as some enemies and move more easily. As such, the second tower is organized vertically, you have to knock on blocks with a hammer to pop and bounce on trampolines , in order to achieve higher levels. Incidentally, the relief effect inherent in the 3DS is proving quite impressive as the player has almost the impression of experiencing the scenery and objects around him. Very cool. A big boss generally expected to the end of each dungeon , as here a big yellow caterpillar (it should hit its tail to inflict damage) . Note that in case of death of Link in a dungeon , Lavio automatically retrieves its objects. Link must return home for rent again. Anyway, at that time , the game offers Link two choices : either restart the game at the entrance of the dungeon , or from his home ...

A lick of paint

Undoubtedly , the most important object of Lavio turns out to be the bracelet allowing Link to turn into a painting . To do this, the player must approach any surface (wall, rock ... ) and simply press the A button Paint form 2D Link can then move , plated on the wall , only the left or right ( but never in ascending or descending order) . We must therefore observe the architecture design. For example, to climb the floors of the second tower , it may turn into paint and move to stick on a block of stone that regularly move up and down . At the top , you must quickly you take off the block by taking the normal form of Link ( just press A again ) . The ability to turn into a painting achieves remote platforms or inaccessible places. But it is also a way to get a bunch of ruby painted on the walls and especially into the wall cracks to get to the other side of a room. Some of these cracks, the particular aspect, offer to travel the world Lorule.Enfin alternative form of painting , Link also has the ability to momentarily escape from enemies or traps. For example, if a risk of crushing rock , it can turn into paint and paste it on the nearest wall to avoid the danger. Warning, your movement as paint is still dependent on a power gauge that empties in seconds As you move . Fortunately, she then refilled quickly enough. Moreover, this gauge also provides some objects Lavio . For example , it decreases quickly when you shoot many arrows in a row with the arc ( in the first dungeon , these arrows are used to enable remote switches in the form of balls perched on top of towers) .

An accessible gameplay

No doubt the familiar player in the world of A Link to the Past will easily find its brands through gameplay almost identical , with stylized graphics and soundtrack great ( with the typical music and sound effects as in the discovery of a secret passage ) . However, the novice adventurer , who has never practiced the original game should have little difficulty , since the game has some elements that facilitate adventure, like a red cross on the map showing the exact location of make for each mission or dungeon. Or up to 20 markers positioned on the plane, very useful for remembering important people or places . Finally , handling turns could not be more easy. Thus, according to the pressure on the joystick , Link advance more or less rapidly, while the directional pad can slightly move the camera on the screen around it. With the A key, the young boy has the opportunity to pick up or throw an object ( barrel , pot , bush ... ) , turn into paint next to a wall and talk to a person nearby ( there are sometimes choice between two responses to the screen in a dialogue, but no real influence on the course of events ) . For its part, the B button is used to give sword ( holding it down , he shot his load and performs a broad attack around him ) . R , maintained key can use the shield to counter enemy attacks or projectiles , while the Y button is for special items , including Lavio as an oil lamp which sets fire to enemies. Link can carry up to 20 objects / weapons at the same time . And to equip it , it's easy : just move your finger on the screen down to the dedicated box . Note that on the 3DS, the top screen displays the action , while the bottom screen is used to manage objects and displays the map of the world on which it is possible to zoom .

Good news by visiting the Kakariko Village, you can compete against other players through StreetPass. For now, the maximum number of players is still unknown, as is the detail of the fighting. But what we do know is that the characters of other players in the form of a shadow Link, and only the selected objects before the confrontation may be used during the fighting. Then gauge your character's life (hearts) fills completely before and after the fight. And even if you lose the fight, you keep your personal belongings. Last but not least: 50 StreetPass challenges are present, such as "Win 10 times a struggle," "Use the oil lamp to kill your competitor" or "Winning the battle after eating a green apple." In the end, there is thus no doubt that A Link Between Worlds should be an adventure as magical as colossal.

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DONKEY KONG COUNTRY RETURNS : Review

This is the advantage of a rich catalog of known and appreciated licenses: to fill the holes in the schedule with modifications and / or remakes. Nintendo proves once again with Donkey Kong Country Returns 3D, which will not wait long before being adapted for the Wii to the 3DS. Two and a half ago. The straw that broke the barrel?

LIVES AT ESRD

For once unanimous, players like criticism welcomed as it was Donkey Kong Country Returns to its release on Wii. With a solid gameplay, a varied level design and a stern-but-fair challenge, Texans Retro Studios have proven themselves quite capable of taking over from Rare, and their talent might as well speak beyond Metroid Prime. Portable format dictates that the 3DS version has undergone some adjustments. Starting with difficulty, unusual for a stamped Nintendo, and probably considered at odds with the expectations of gamers on the go. Far from insurmountable, DKCR requires a bit more concentration than Super Princess Peach. That's why the title suggests immediately the choice between "original" and "new version", which changes some basic settings, starting with the life bar of the two gorillas. 3 hearts instead of two, it did not look like much, but in the jungle, terrible jungle, it is always good to take. A good point that even the addition of Diddy Kong inflate the life bar to a maximum of six hearts, beyond its reactor to extend the jumps (and its launch peanuts coop). What saved the day against some bosses a little painful.

Another gift to the distracted players, the arrival of exclusive bonuses should make it easier for less experienced players. Green balloons three gold coins to prevent the fall, a portable barrel 5 to recover Diddy at any time, and especially a temporary shock-avoiding many jets console on famous courses barrel or monorail; they are easily recognized by the walls are shaking. For those who have definitely struggled with Newton and gravity, there is the temptation of the Super Guide, already in place on the Wii, but the 3DS version is probably already enough flowers like that. Note that the choice between the Wii and 3DS settings can not be changed once launched in the jungle, but fortunately, the game offers three slots backup to taste the spicy version, and get down to business as soon as the mood takes you. For more fierce, the ninth world behind the Golden Temple is enriched, for a total of eight new well devious courses. Unfortunately, we have been able to discover only through the official trailer, because they could not get all the KONG letters and all the puzzle pieces to unlock. Disappointing for those who, like us, hoping to access by simply looping the game once.


DONKEY sissy

The 3DS version is also the opportunity to dust off the foibles of the original game, including everything about the gameplay to the Wii-breaker nuts nothing coconut. No need to shake the controller to launch a super jump or blow on a dandelion hoping scrape a bonus. Two different configurations are waiting for you, one to the analog stick, the other to the cross. Matter of taste, but the second was our preference, simply because she can hold down a button to run and grab everything within reach, like a vine or a barrel. In a game that requires a minimum of concentration and precision, it is anything but luxury. This mobile adaptation also can play quietly in cooperation, a choice that helps to overcome many obstacles, since the manner of Rayman Origins, the game continues until one player is still in the race. Be careful though the stock of lives, which tends to scroll breakneck speed But in the register of the platform to share 3D Donkey Kong Country Returns is a delicacy, although it will settle for local multi, each with its cartridge to enjoy.

Irreproachable fun plane, Donkey Kong 3DS generates almost faultless, except for one menu. How to convert such a visually rich game, with also some effects and environments teeming 2.5D licked, Monster Games had to trim the fat. At the expense of fluidity. As always with this kind of question, it is a matter of sensitivity, and it may be that some players are wholly inappropriate attention. But when we knocked on the Wii version, the visual difference is felt at first glance, whether the sharpness of images or frame rate, revised down for the game to fulfill its ambitions techniques. It's pretty obvious on internships scrolling, or those who are particularly loaded effects, as this level punctuated by the appearance of giant waves. It was sometimes difficult to distinguish some shots, the risk of making some fights warmer than expected, like moles and being boss. It does not prevent you enjoy the lovely visual finds it licked Thurs Between levels in shadow, the sequences back Rambi, carnivorous spiders want your skin, Donkey Kong connects the exhilarating situations, combining the requirement of game platforms antique and modern one level design rich in secrets. A success.

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Pokemon Mystery Dungeon Gates To Infinity : Review

After DS versions frankly disappointing and uninspired, and episodes for download on Wii released only in Japan, the Pokémon Mystery Dungeon series is back for good this time on 3DS, and in one episode. Finished, double versions. It must be said that unlike the parent series, it was more of a gimmick here. So, what do we find behind the doors of the Infinite?

DUNGEON Oddish

Certainly, the world of Pokémon is agitated! Again, we have to save a gaggle of creatures and exciting adventures. As is customary in the series Pokémon Mystery Dungeon, the player is a human turned into a Pokemon. This time, it is possible to choose the creature you are leading and his sidekick among the starters of the fifth generation, that is to say, Snivy, Tepig and Oshawott, and Pikachu and Coupenotte. And go for the big trip! Finally, it begins softly. Our partner Pokémon indeed a dream: to build a heavenly place for Pokémon, called Pokéden. For this, he bought a piece of land that the player will help develop and customize throughout the adventure, which is rather amusing. And there is also a village just off the Village Relay, which obviously has a lot of missions and characters too much, which speak for a hundred years to say nothing.

As can be seen from the first steps in this new world, the mechanics of the series have not changed much, despite some additions here and there, supposed to make the whole a bit more dynamic. Indeed, we see for example in the dungeons new phases of outdoor play unfolding in real time, unlike conventional exploration phases that work per turn. Unfortunately, these walks outside will eventually have little interest because of the weak interaction with the environment. The puzzles are in effect at the grass roots. The mystery dungeons, meanwhile, are still assemblies empty rooms connected by corridors randomly generated. Although there are new types of traps, such as slabs or hidden rooms infested hostile Pokémon, the gameplay is not messed up so far: it is always a question of going from floor to floor by fritant with all creatures that you come across.


DUNGEON MISERY

Despite these innovations, so it falls quickly in through the Pokémon Mystery Dungeon series: adventure is repetitive and lack of relief, because a redundant gameplay and combat system less extensive than in the Pokémon series, even he borrows the codes. The difficulty of fighting well have been revised a little upwards, the disappearance of the gauge hunger and KO just penalizing greatly lessen the tension of exploration and make the game much easier. Difficult in these conditions to feel supported by the adventure. However, some changes made in the name of the sacrosanct accessibility are very welcome: indeed, we finally have clear and functional menus, far from the interface austere and shamefully wrong damn previous episodes on a handheld console. Anyway, as you say it is not enough to make the thrilling adventure.

This is unfortunate because Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: The Gates of Infinity still has good ideas, starting with the game mode in co-operation locally. Four players can indeed make all the more difficult missions, which had always missed in the series so far. To a lesser extent, the title also leverages the capabilities of the 3DS StreetPass incorporating as a backup, but the camera, which allows you to unlock special dungeons called Porta Magna by scanning round objects. Some stalls even Pokéden unlock mini-games operator console, but it is far from cultissimes events Pokémon Stadium. And since it is now in the air at the same time Nintendo, there is a cohort of available DLC missions. Anyway, the game already has the origin of life very satisfactory, in great dungeons, missions and to recruit creatures. Too bad that the pace of the adventure is so if winded.


MINOTAUPE CHIEF

And anyway, why not offer nearly as Pokémon of the fifth generation, when previous versions allowed to cross all species encountered during their output? Apart from this a Pikachu and Eevee by then, there was only creatures Unova right. A little more balance would have been more desirable. Is this a technique to rejuvenate the game? It is true that seeing the first images, we had hoped that Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: The Gates of Infinity make evolve the series. Nothing at the implementation level, Pokémon Mystery Dungeon was still stuck at the time of the Game Boy Advance. This time, you are entitled to pretty well animated patterns, bright colors, and a very convincing 3D. Graphically, the bet is successful with this dusting rule. Unfortunately, the rest just does not follow the same direction.

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FIRE EMBLEM : AWAKENING : Review

The war still remains one of the most beautiful excuses to lay strategy games, and the angelic Nintendo has understood, leaving the victims princesses for warrior princes of his long saga of Fire Emblem, freshly arrived on 3DS.

If you were talking about Chrome, the heroic fantasy fan in you will immediately think of the warlike deity of less aggressive non-Conan. But Chrome is not an angry god, but simply a young prince to fencing and justice loving blue hair. We can not say that the two have much to do, especially as the friend Chrom, hero of this new component of Fire Emblem, however will not be the only main character. From the beginning of the adventure, the player will be prompted to create an avatar that will be second in command, friend and confidant of Chrome, allowing for even greater effect than usual involvement. Amnesia is the best shared among video game hero thing is in this state that your character meets Chrom and his friends when they are struggling to defend the borders of their peaceable kingdom against the assaults repeated bandits in the area. Amnesia but not armed, so you will help to repel intruders and give you a place in the hierarchy of this beautiful country holy kingdom Iris. On various events in various plots, the situation on the continent, however, will degenerate As battles, ending with sink into the tragic and epic, bringing you fight increasingly formidable enemies.


MEOWTH, YES WAR!

Like its predecessors, Fire Emblem Awakening is a pure juice of this style of game that is addictive and especially if the Tactic-RPG product. These strategy games turn based RPG that however a mixed management dimension troops and equipment are very popular among us since the advent of shows like Shining Force or Final Fantasy Tactics. But unlike his two sidekicks, the saga of Fire Emblem has a very special characteristic that many players are not only looked beyond measure: if one of your characters is defeated, it is for good and never comes back. While this style of game is just completely thought for players who love to love their characters, see one of his warriors to high grain kindly become compost for dandelions was something depressing.

Left to get back to the longtime fans, this version offers the ability to immediately play Newbie. In this mode oh pejorative, the dead are no longer dead, but KOs , An option that will delight those who have previously had difficulty to get serious about this series. I must say that despite the three difficulty levels present, the game offers quite a challenge. Even mode "normal" difficulty (the lowest), it often happens that we do cut to pieces after a few strategic aberrations not yet looked too much harm in battle. Mode handy "Auto" game can help during long and tiresome journey, but it will not be especially engage in a close game of risk, see console sacrifice your characters the coldest manner mathematically possible.


Gattai!

Staying focused is often the key to victory here, both elements play against you. Not only enemies are generally more numerous than you on the map, but it often happens that reinforcements regularly land by small strategic forts located here and there on the fighting areas. One of your priorities will be generally placing men about these entry points to one hand to prevent the enemy legions arriving continuously, but also to heal a little forts with virtues healing. This will also save health care, because for those who do not know, there is no MP in Fire Emblem, just books that break out after a time, like the other weapons in the game elsewhere.

But the most obvious tactical advantage of this component is still merging units. During combat, when two units are juxtaposed, it will be possible to assemble, to slightly increase the capacity of friendly unit. Although this reduces the number of your units, but is well worth it when you face slightly stronger than you enemies, which will often be the case! Often required to make a bad situation out, this tactical choice is a significant addition to the range of possibilities available to the player. Another important not to omit point relationships. When two characters are side by side, sometimes they can be involved in the game of their neighbor. Repair or cash for them, and even put a more shot on the fly p'tit these significant bonus can also improve the relationship between the characters, which will prove very useful later.


REST OF GAY laughed

Between battles, you will be asked to move to a card effect. You could certainly go immediately to the next chapter of the story. But it would be a shame to miss additional random battles and street vendors offering some very good deals. In addition, between battles you will be able to attend random events between your characters, again allowing to slightly increase the quality of their relationship, sometimes even discover objects or in the form of bonus points experience. Once two characters are sufficiently supported each or spoken during the game or intermediate phases, you will be asked to watch their conversations, thereby increasing the quality of their relationship, denoted C S. And to the delight of shippers, where a male and female character have reached a relation S, they get married, which is already festive itself. But another reason to party, it will be later in the game to meet and recruit their future children in special battles.

Of course, certain combinations of units will give parents more or less strong, that the players involved will be delighted to check. Funny and well written, to the sides of the fighting, in which each character reveals his personality in a fun way, allow more focus to this gallery of colorful and loveable hero, a particularly important point for this kind of games. Another crucial point of the inter-fight: the possibility when one of your characters reaches level 10 to give him a new class. Warrior so he can go to barbarian hero, paladin short, a tree of possibilities will provide most of your characters, at least those who do not have a non-scalable as dragoniques particular class or peasants.


MIME THE VARIETY!

Charismatic characters, but taking tough game, but classic is effective in turn, Fire Emblem Awakening performs faultlessly on the content, but the container is also in keeping. Graphically, it certainly is not great looking on a strategy game, but to Nintendo suddenly came to offer a simple visual rendering, nice to look at, but especially that uses 3D in a smart way, and certainly not tiring. Whether or cinematics for the game itself, the prioritization of "layers" of relief is still very subtle, favoring readability. So, we are surprised to find themselves plunged into the action, but by taking a look at the left to ensure that it has the right number of points still lives on the table in the foreground . It will certainly be amazed at some disturbing graphic choices, such as lack of feet of characters that give the impression of sinking into the ground. But for the rest, it's all good, either from the point of view of the splendid and clear music or sound effects, each character being doubled on certain keywords giving them depth without drowning us in incessant declamations.

Finally, a note on the DLC. After a free initial task, many others are sold a few euros each. The main advantage of these paid missions is that on one hand you can replay to infinity, and the other once completed each mission offers a "magic clone" a hero of a previous part of the saga. Finally, delicious detail: each card has the music of the previous section to which it corresponds, which end to crack the fans. One big regret, the DLC maps are the only ones that can be replayed ad infinitum, thus offering the only viable option to increase its troops before a tough fight, or to artificially raise the relationships between characters, or the skills of weapons. Harm to come to such excesses, especially when the difficulty of the game by default is known.

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DEVIL SURVIVOR : Review

If it is almost indispensable virtue for RPG fans in France, is patience. Despite himself, Devil Survivor Overclocked confirms this sad reality in coming to us with more than a year and a half shift, not even justified by a translation into proper form. And logically, one question comes to mind after a long wait: is that our patience will be well rewarded?

"I'M A DEVIL SURVIVOR, I'M NOT GON 'GIVE UP"

It will not have escaped with great world Overclocked is a 3DS remake of Devil Survivor DS originally released at the beginning of 2009 in Japan. Finally, "remake" is a big word for what should more properly be described as basic port, complete however an additional portion of adventure and American dubbing (a bit overplayed, as often) to give life to many dialogues that punctuate the adventure. Implementation side, so any improvement horizon, except a few pieces of cinematic operating painfully 3D. In short, if you're one of the few smart guys who have already traveled the adventure on the DS, you can not regret forget this version. For others, it will unfortunately just a dull necessarily technically title, including fixed and very fairly flat fighting, posting three fixed sprites and special effects of a bland humility. For the dynamic and graphic slap, FTAs.

Unfortunately, this technique frugality also affects the staging of the story told only through dialogue that screens are not really dreaming. In the company of the young heroes of this fantastic adventure, you walk in a Tokyo hit by terrible events and completed by the army, jumping from area to area via a simple menu to try to escape from it and escape certain death. Despite a good propensity to multiply trips only to find a few conversations, history, wrapped in mystery and rather well done, we managed to hang on, probably due in part to the typical demonic atmosphere saga Megami Tensei - which Devil Survivor is a spin-off, remember - that invades gradually throughout the adventure.


THREE TO BE OR NOT TO BE

If the appearance of the 3DS version of Devil Survivor can legitimately disappoint the heart of the gameplay, it still beats with force. So the game has its battles Tactical-RPG with a handful of typical hero storming of enemies on a virtual board. One of the subtleties of the title comes from its clashes are a team of three where we are rather accustomed to simple games. In sum, when ally is facing an enemy, it switches into a fight with several suggesting that usually seen in a classic RPG. So each team has its leader and (maximum) two acolytes who in turn act after receiving their instructions. Crucial strategic point: the death of the leader causes the defeat of the entire group.

Good Megami Tensei, the combat system is governed by the elemental powers (fire, ice, electricity, etc..) That affect the strengths and weaknesses of each fighter, with all that this implies in terms of strategy. Faced with the difficulty raised enough so it should quickly look at the configuration of our teams. To do this, it does not go through I do not know what inventory to change weapons or magic bracelet. No, here are the powers of the fighters that are managed and especially the fighters themselves.

For more of our human heroes, we engage in battles along with demons that we discover in the course of the adventure. These are literally buying into a demonic eBay species, a dedicated menu where you put the money earned in battle to try to grab the most powerful demons who fail our team. In addition, it is possible to merge the demons that we have to create new, more powerful, more versatile or specialized choice. Only regret here, the design of this very rich bestiary is somewhat random, with some bugs to look grotesque not very engaging. Anyway, there is much to discover in Devil Survivor and a lot of opportunities to put feet on the best teams from before the onslaught of fighting unfortunately too little variety, but still reserve a big challenge.

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LUIGI'S MANSION 2 : REVIEW

Despite his appearances more or less memorable through the history of Nintendo, the brother of Mario was erected reluctant hero to launch a console for the release of the Gamecube. Luigi's Mansion 2 arrives on his side as a gift just found the second anniversary of the 3DS, relatively spoiled in March. The year of Luigi she starts with a dusty laptop adventure or a spring cleaning?

Luigi's Mansion 2 - Screenshot éditeurTout like love stories, those ghosts end badly, in general. However, Luigi's Mansion belongs to the "ectoplascomique" branch of Casper or Ghostbusters. There will be no questions or bloody traps possessions in a fatal way supervised by Nintendo, especially when historical mascot of the company is involved with a vacuum cleaner on the back and the jitters in the stomach. No more courageous in his first adventure of living, green mustache faces several mansions this time instead of one, not to mention the most vicious and expanded bestiary. The synopsis is just the bare minimum without surprise: the Black Moon that kept the peace in the valley of shadows was broken into several pieces, all the ghosts became aggressive and Professor Luigi K.Tastroff therefore asks to put the order in everything. Development scenario is not much worked, but the game sucks anyway not to win an Oscar for his writing. As often with Nintendo, the large nests in the atmosphere and gameplay, two aspects with particular care not to change.


DYSON OF ANARCHY

Luigi's Mansion 2 - Screenshot Publisher Like episode Gamecube, Luigi's Mansion 2 is a game where running, jumping and special powers are (almost) absent. Luigi trots so exaggerated falls very often and must use items to progress: a Spectroflash and ectoblast 5000 to freeze and draw ghosts (among other uses), a Révéloscope to things invisible and DS "tank" cobbled appear to communicate with the teacher. Amateur effective cleaner, our protagonist overalls use his supernatural hunt to raise a lot of wealth with its great appliance to the point of wondering if it would be a little Switzerland despite his Italian accent. Much more advanced in terms of interactions and puzzles than its predecessor, the title concocted by Next Level Games also offers more challenge and content but more ground. Handheld requires the exploration of the manors is found cut in fairly short chapters - 20 to 30 minutes maximum - between which Luigi returns to the base by K.Tastroff "télépixelisation", a process that would suit a lot of people not in the real life. The exploration therefore is so fragmented and semi-interventionist, since we can still return to the rooms already crossed in a previous chapter to find money, ghosts or more gems.

Luigi's Mansion 2 - Screenshot éditeurL'intérêt of this approach is partly to get a good evaluation at the end of the chapter, but also to complete his hunting board and fill his purse, the latter being crucial for improving Suction or delay the ectoblast overheating Révéloscope level. Upgrades welcome face to many or resistant spectra, although you can usually get away with not a little skill in dodging and fried flashouillage responsible for the flashlight. If they keep a "Nintendo logic" pronounced boss fights require a bit more thought and skill, with some nice surprises in the program. The same goes for the clever puzzles and the overall construction levels, riddled as it is trompe-l'oeil with traps and secret passages. Despite the confined appearance and missions sometimes too divided, ideas fuse, the pace remains strong and the atmosphere turns enjoyable from beginning to end of the adventure. Less than skip logorrhea not always useful Professor, seeking elsewhere too often Luigi in his escapades, it takes ten to twelve hours to reach the end of the solo mode. An appreciable lifetime compared to the first Luigi's Mansion, without forgetting the search for precious stones, Boos, the three-star rank and bonus missions that should occupy the well demanding players.


DO IT MANSION

Luigi's Mansion 2 - Screenshot éditeurNettement more dispensable but that comes with the cartridge, the multi part of the Haunted Tower has the merit of being complete and easy access. Locally with one or more cartridges or online, you can team up with up to three other Luigi in many ways. Rather commonplace that funny, the "Hunting" is simply to clean a floor in less than five minutes, while the "Hunt" turns players into animal detectives to track down all Ectochiens adorable stashed again in five minutes flat. More stressful, the "Sprint" application to gather all the team switches out before the end of the day down to ridiculously short, we can happily extend finding watches in the background or fighting ghosts. In all three modes, you can view the ranking and win random bonus for the next wave at the end of each round, and a little money transferred to the solo. The number of stages and the difficulty level can be set to add spice, but nothing very original on the horizon. Moreover, if local parties accuse any lag, it is not uncommon to suffer once online, especially when playing with strangers around the world.

Luigi's Mansion 2 - Screenshot editor Little also regret the lack of alternative configuration incorporating a second stick for those who have invested in a Circle Pad Pro, even if you quickly get used to settle buttons (or gyroscope) to target in the air and on the ground. Luigi's Mansion 2 arrives, however, stand out clearly on the artistic level, both audible and visual. Animations, colors, music, environments ... made the leap in terms of achievement in relation to the installment of living is undeniable, despite some minor technical concessions and a visible aliasing, especially on 3DS XL and / or with the effect of relief (yet successful ) enabled. The facial expressions and bits of words Luigi participate once again to install a comic atmosphere pronounced in gloomy scenery or offset. However, the greatest achievement lies in the sound design, simply excellent. Music composers recall that Nintendo has a knack for arrangements and variations, while the sound effects show the attention of the company to the small details that make the difference. Impossible not to praise a game where the sound of an object passing through the vacuum hose is funnier than the grenade launcher Terminator 2.

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CASTLEVANIA : LORDS OF SHADOW - MIRROR OF FATE

Fell into our hands last month the time of initial half fig half grape, Castlevania: Lords of Shadow - Mirror of Fate has since found its way to writing a full version. Opus transition and standalone both the mobile game Mercury Steam has the DNA of the series in the blood, but it does not reach the magnitude of its most prestigious predecessors.

Castlevania: Lords of Shadow - Mirror of Fate - Screenshot éditeurLords of Shadow was a replay in the broad sense of Bram Stoker's Dracula, with obvious references to Castlevania beat'em and a dominant way God of War. Mirror of Fate continues in this way while drawing very freely Dracula's Curse (for casting) and Symphony of the Night (for exploration, the growing experience and special powers). More floating in the 2D gameplay episodes he transforms the inheritance, as 2.5D in convincing realization and the effect of depth admirably managed suffers from the same problem as its direct elder at the frame rate and the aliasing. We made it to the strength and timing of movements is adapted to the slight impression of slowness, but those who are accustomed to the nervousness of the 2D would do well to take a look at the demo available on the eShop before s' offer the full game. From the moment we accept the slightly lunar, however, there will be fighting with his foot.


EXPECTED DRAC '?

Castlevania: Lords of Shadow - Mirror of Fate - Screenshot éditeurQue it embodies Gabriel, Simon, Alucard and Trevor, the whip and the cross will be the main combat arms of the adventure. Many combos are unlocked throughout the experiment harvested, loaded with blows or end sequence used to break the guard of the enemy, able to collect more attacks to come hurt our heroes during animation. Evasion, air dash, double jump, and the parade against attack but there are to deal with the most difficult situations. And when danger arises for good, which does not happen very often, there will always be different secondary weapons and magical powers, depending on the character. Our official choucou at this level is Alucard, able to change shape and use objects terribly effective, but Trevor also reserve some nice surprises. The ability of ancillary weapons may well be limited, there are refills galore and increases without looking far from the main road. The fountains of health and magic are also legion to avoid blocking the player in its progress, as certain powers are essential to advance the main plot.

The regular automatic backups and QTE further reduce the challenge for the good of the mobile experience and a great show at all major battles, though not unpleasant (?) when lead must learn to read the behavior of opponents to know when attacks are most effective. Failing to take full of cum, it takes full view despite the small screen size and limited power of the console. Without being an artistic and technical prowess, the game comes to swinging a handful of visually impressive 3D sequences for a Nintendo portable. The decorations on several levels and camera angles have been special care that emphasizes the cinematic aspect of the Mirror of Fate, which is also doing pretty well musically. With one or two exceptions, it is more soundscapes sticking well to the ambiance as punchy and memorable themes in the vein of 2D adventures. Moreover, the use of headphones will be advised, the speakers of the 3DS can easily saturate the long and sustained partition agreements.


MIRROR OF FETA

A short prologue and three acts, here's all the space needed Mirror of Fate to unwind its reverse history and unfortunately uninspired. With the exception of a surprise about the true identity of a character, we must admit that the false convoluted scenario is too underdeveloped for that he still spends the attention once the adventure complete. There was yet to seriously pursue the matter cosmogony initiated by Lords of Shadow, but we believe that developers have preferred to keep their logs for real living room suite. When we add to this dubbing often overplayed and animations too frozen during cutscenes pretty cel-shaded, was necessarily hard to find exciting script. It is fortunately not too intrusive and despite the inability to pass the non-interactive sequences, it is not dark in a fair in the verbose cutscene, besides their staging is successful in all, in the absence of be original. Another tip narrative, magic wills of deceased soldiers are back with a multi-purpose: they develop the background, give clues, put some funny references and are all gain a little experience.

This leaves unresolved issues on exploration, puzzles and phases platform, points to the fluctuating quality in the first Lords of Shadow. The game is strictly divided into three parts in Dracula's Castle, with characters moving in parallel or in a different time, it does not change protagonist will to solve puzzles and reach places inaccessible to some heroes. Areas often cross one way with minor detours to collect optional bonus, occasionally requiring special skills to be collected. Map of places is not really complex and teleporters are there to earn some time on some mandatory trips. The game loop eight to ten hours without too much effort and secrets are too few to justify going more than one or two hours to find all the. Jumps and snaps edges are legion, but do not generally require a crazy dexterity. Less frequent and easier than Lords of Shadow, riddles still report more experience points without using indexes, unnecessary for fans of puzzle.

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HYDROVENTURE : SPIN CYCLE

As its name suggests, Hydroventure: Spin Cycle is the result of a WiiWare released in 2010, Hydroventure. Always developed by Curve Studios, this skill available from mid-December on eShop game abandons the main feature of the console to the dual-screen firm Kyoto 3D to better focus on other more discrete function, gyroscope.

JUST WATER, WATER RAIN ...

In a world where magic reigns, an enchanting obviously more talented than Merlin Bud decides to give life to images of four history books he particularly. With drops rainbow sky, images of books begin to come alive, which does not fail to make him jealous a knave potion present in the workshop of the magician: the viscous substance. It does not take long to get involved through the pages, thereby absorbing vital energy drops rainbow sky. The player's mission is therefore to get them to give the "passion" to the pages of the books in question. Yes, despite appearances, it is indeed a scenario.

To do this, you run a body of water named Eddy through sixty levels labyrinthine level design more robust, the game is divided into four worlds corresponding to different books (prehistoric period medieval, science fiction, etc.).. Each time, it will lead the avatar to the exit, ie to drop rainbow sky imprisoned, which seek to solve various puzzles along the way to achieve it. It will for example get a nut to open a door to rescue a Goldfish or even eliminate a specific enemies to help an explorer number. As and when the adventure, Eddy gets new abilities and can include jumping, turning into ice or concentrate drops of water to use force and destroy walls blocking the way.


LIQUID SUNSHINE

In terms of gameplay, Hydroventure: Spin Cycle up the gyro function in the heart of the action, as LocoRoco Cocoreccho did in his time on PS3. In a word, the 3DS is constantly moving to advance the puddle acting as a protagonist, at the risk of giving the shot in some players. Indeed, if the console is tilted 180 degrees more or less for a good half levels, those remaining involve full 360 degree rotations: roller coaster effect guaranteed. Gravity as a model of gameplay Hydroventure is not the first to propose and in this case, the handling is not always the most practical since we often use the touch screen to be Eddy concentrates or activates a mechanism. On several occasions, made a clumsy handling support your servant on the "Home" button or "Pause" when it was not on "Power" ... The owners of a XL model may in turn have a better gaming experience, the more angular corners more suitable for rough handling. From a purely ergonomic, the title would have perhaps won out on phones or small tablets.

In addition, the physics of water is transcribed and attractive graphics engine, quickly made up for the lack of 3D compatibility. Without being amazing, the design is pleasing to the eye while the soundtrack is simply act as "background music". The adventure, which takes less than ten hours to be buckled, has a good replay value if you want to collect all the puzzle pieces and get the maximum score of five stars on each level. Note that the courses are generally short but involve fairly quickly run your brain to solve the riddles. To vary a little phases of gameplay, a fight against a boss (giant spider ...) reusing well powers acquired hitherto awaits the player at the end of each world. Moreover, the action sequences are often filled reflection since we often think before acting, some flammable enemies can eg be drastically reduce the life bar Eddy.

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Professor Layton vs. Ace Attorney

After SNK, Namco, Tatsunoko, Marvel and Sega, Capcom never ceases to fricoter with colleagues entertainment rubbing a hero who never stripped in public, Professor Layton. Between tradition and modernity adventure game puzzles game of the chocolate mousse can really take with a fruitcake?

THE WHOLE TRUTH ...

One rainy night in London. While the young Luke, whose parents must have been a mattress with the summons of the social worker, waits for the rain to leave the office of Professor Layton, a young woman knocks on the door panic. She said to call Mahoney know former student teacher, and being pursued by a witch. Listening only to his atheism, Professor Layton does not hide his surprise, but decided to offer asylum to the young woman. Unfortunately, it will not remain the host Professor long as a witch emerges and takes it into a fireworks festival the most beautiful effect. Starting in pursuit, Professor and Luke through some adventures before finding himself mysteriously drawn into a strange book. Meanwhile, a plane lands in London. On board Phoenix Wright and Maya, invited to observe the English justice by the International Bar Association. And after a volte-face in court which the bumbling hero has always accustomed us, here are the bearers of Capcom also absorbed by a magical book, and transported in a medieval world where you want to make skin witches.


A GENIUS, TWO PARTNERS, A BELL

Get out the brilliant brain Shu Takumi, already responsible for the first Phoenix Wright as well as very nice Ghost Trick, Professor Layton VS Gyakuten Saiban is a game that tries to combine the two biggest franchises Adventure Japanese of the decade. While their success is relatively comparable in Japan, you can not honestly say that the two games are very similar in terms of progress. Professor Layton made his deductions himself, calling the player to the rescue only when it comes to scratch the parts in the decorative elements or to help a farmer to sort the dogs, Ace Attorney games are them true deduction where the player must determine the truth based on evidence provided by contradictions found everywhere. Two styles of thinking a little different, united in a single game, is it a good idea? And most importantly, they are soluble in one another? The answer is unfortunately the same as for a Mojito too packed with a spoon: we enjoy but there are still a lot of mud at the bottom.

Composed of 10 chapters uneven cutting, the game takes place in linking different distinct but equally important: walks "on Layton" in which we will go to different places to peel NPC and advance the story, and the trial "on Ace Attorney" when it comes to play its instinct and its propensity to detect inconsistencies in the story. What fans can rest assured that it is for the one and the other activities, there is not really anything to be afraid. Parties "to Layton" are always composed of fixed arrays that need to click to death, interspersed with puzzles that, for once, seem still easier than what is proposed in previous games. As in classic Layton, exploration passages simply ask to click from one place to another on the map to move the advanced adventure are made through automatic deductions characters following the puzzles solved . Once there, he will do more than click around to find "picarats" (also useful for the trial!) Or hidden puzzles. In the end, the biggest revolution finally come of trials of novel, fairy world requires. It must be in the middle ages, things were much less strung today. No photograph of the crime scene, no fingerprints, we must rely solely on logic. And face bumpkins who dream of burning a witch, there will never be too much.


THE MAGICIAN DOSE

So the player Layton will not be too disoriented by the passages inherent in their character, fans of Gyakuten who take their first trial here for quite a few years may be surprised. Indeed, apart from the first case that takes place in "our world", other trials will take place in Labyrinth City, a medieval city. Wanting to reproduce folk witch trials of the Middle Ages (or at least what we imagine in), Level-5 and Capcom have slightly modified the usual formula. So when you need to defend your first witch, you'll quickly discover that all the villagers show at the same time. A choice in the gameplay is a little confusing at first, since each sentence of the statement correspond to one of the 4, 5 or 10 witnesses at the bar.

Fortunately, you always have the option to stop asking for clarification of a sudden "A MOMENT!". This is also how most business will advance with a multitude of witnesses is also synonymous with many points of view. Hysterical, foul-mouthed, most of them contradict without realizing it, making your job much easier. When witnesses deepens his statement, you will indeed be able to pass from one to the other and observe their reactions. It will be possible, if one of them seems troubled, the collared by putting face its contradictions. The troubled character then confessed that he has not seen exactly the same thing, or that the previous witness omitted important information, allowing you to unlock the most intractable situations.

Difficult to reason, witnesses are even more reluctant they decidedly want to see a witch burning, but luckily for you, magic is something very codified. Zapping the science of deductions, Level-5 has filled the void by offering magical spells operation especially box. It will then read the great book of spells and assimilate the "rules" in order to prove that the bumpkins a person accused of witchcraft did not technically have burned his opponents because it did not take his stick, or the witch could not escape because it can not cross the green walls. These very specific rules therefore allow the player to push the reflection as it did before, even if it was still quite often the impression that Professor Layton chews a little too much work.

He be said generally that the game is not very difficult, as the good professor is getting things done fairly relaxed. Almost as if the game had been designed more for players who discover Layton Ace Attorney than otherwise. Friendly scenario, gameplay ideas to rejuvenate rather welcome trial graphics particular care, all this is good fun, but does not erase the big rhythm problems of this title. Because even if we like the Ace Attorney, it must be recognized however that the various components of the series all have the same main drawback, namely require you to follow a single pattern of deduction to achieve pinch guilty. Here is the case, but in addition there is the issue of teacher Laytonesque games, where it spends its time to advance the story of its unilateral deductions, giving you the hand only at puzzles. Admittedly, this is what casual gamers like about him, but for once, the tempo of the game takes a big hit.


TOO IN BED TO BE HONEST

When two particularly wordy games are added together, in fact we run the risk of being faced with a tedious logorrhea. And this is indeed the case. Between teacher who agitates you evidence under the nose taking his sly "So you understand Phoenix? Tell objection," Maya and Luke who spend their time describing what you have before you, and especially unbearable phases self-congratulation, we look forward to the next chapter. It's simple, these four have been in love so after each puzzle is gone for ten round trips "a / Ohlala teacher, fortunately you are there" "b / Let expensive Phoenix, c is thanks to you "" c / Oh but Luke has also helped us "not to mention" d / Yes Maya gave me a hand it's great too. " In short, it never ends. Too polite, they become painful and we do sometimes lose the thread of the story, strange for an adventure game.

Always in this tutorial takes about a quarter of the game to learn the mysteries, trials and witchcraft trials, and we are left with a game at the wonderful art direction, the gameplay mechanics very interesting, but particularly staggering pace. But do not spoil our fun, because even if we are angry at the pre-chewed passages called "empty", the cohesion of the universe as well as the tricks of narrative interspersed here and there to make us laugh or smile are still very present. Always so amusing at puzzles, a bit disturbing at the trial, "Gyakuton" or "Acetone" as it is called by fans is a nice adventure game, but that is unfortunately not the absolute and final hit gender as one might have hoped. Perhaps one might dream of a European version at least lightened courtesies uninterrupted?

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PICROSS E2

Jupiter is back. Four months after the first skirmish on the 3DS eShop with Picross e, the Japanese company is back in business with a second iteration. Always a safe bet for the adaptation of Game Boy with Mario's Picross, discipline is it renewed with Picross e2?

let's remember in the preamble to the principle of late picross. The goal of this logic game is to fill a grid with cross and filled boxes to show a drawing. Nothing is left to chance because obviously need to determine how to mark each box according to figures provided at the edge of box. Picross e2 gets his eldest choice between handling the stylus or the directional cross combo / buttons, and dressing very sober but with spring colors. Player progression can also be facilitated by the presence of a random aid for early in the game to fill a column and a row of the grid, very valuable option to remain as we approach the last grids as well as for new from discovering the discipline.

The content is substantially identical to the first episode with 150 grids on which brainstorming. The originality of this series reside mainly in the presence of a new game mode Called Micross, it could be defined as a kind of curveball grids Picross: from a general grid puzzle 8 x 8 squares, each square is actually made of a micro-puzzle 10 x 10 squares. Each general practice is therefore potentially 6,400 micro boxes, if my math CE2 not betray me. In fact, many of them forming the outline of the shape to make is pre-checked, the number of cases is thereby greatly restricted. Adding that the penalties are absent puzzles Micross, we walk with relative ease from one to the other. We appreciate all the same concept, which will add several hours casually playing with nothing to achieve its five tables.

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SONIC & ALL-STARS RACING TRANSFORMED

Two years ago, Sonic the Hedgehog had ventured on the side of crazy races with bonuses galore, in the line of a plumber. Too uninspired to be convincing, Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing is not sufficiently exploited the Sega universe and relied too heavily on the Sonic franchise. Now on 3DS, this suite can it claim to be better on a console that has eyes for Mario Kart 7?

3DS version: Unfortunately, the good vibes of living versions did not spread to the 3DS. Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed is a port with a trowel, those who disgust you from the first race. It's simple, the frame rate is so much to pick and dull colors so that the original game becomes unrecognizable, who was so brilliant joystick in hand. The result is obviously worse on 3DS XL, because the characters pixellisent more beautiful on the screen. But Sega had the desire to offer a close experience of other versions, with the same range of races, the same career mode to unlock additional characters by gleaning medals, not to mention an online option to find other partners play The arcade driving totally holds up with drifts and persistent IA, and you can still count on the exclusive circuit (Outrun Bay), the presence of Metal Sonic and StreetPass option to exchange the best times with ghosts. Damage to crust for a dark history of technology.


LESS BUT MORE

How to launch a brand new franchise that has missed his departure? After a pit stop, Sonic has thought and seems to have found a partial answer: the transformation. Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed indeed has the distinction of offering convertible vehicles, capable of moving the car to the boat or airplane in a wink. If some thought to see a blatant plagiarism of Mario Kart 7, joystick in hand, it is not. Indeed, the title of Sega goes further and offers gameplay and a truly different feel for the three means of locomotion, where he played more Nintendo map gimmick. As for feelings, it is actually closer to a Diddy Kong Racing.

But in practice, no races dedicated solely to the plane or boat: each course alternates segments dedicated to one type of vehicle. The transition from one to the other, marked with a big blue arc of a circle, is fluidly. Better still, the circuits evolve As the race, and they can sometimes make a drive and repeat the same plane, and discovering new passages, but also new challenges. Sonic Racing Transformed performs a true staging of these developments, and the first of the race in general the chance to discover the causes: a bridge collapses, the arrival of a hostile fleet, a raging monster opens new paths ... Nice way to justify the use of different vehicles.


I WAS SPECTACULÉ!

The showmanship was already present in Sonic Racing Transformed exploits but thoroughly. As in the first episode, the flow is not optimal but the result is still very pleasing to the eye, with environments teeming with detail and animation. And especially among the twenty circuits, it is this time of the variety and only Sonic the environment: Golden Axe, Panzer Dragoon, After Burner, Skies of Arcadia ... Note however that four courses are recycled from the previous episode. Like the Sonic levels, different races have many different ways. Side track, it has taken a huge step between the two episodes. Twenty course, it's still not much, but as the towers do not always look the same, it awakens interest.

There are of course most of the drivers of the first episode, although many of them are unfortunately gone by the wayside (farewell Banjo, Ryo Hazuki, the Chu chu, Opa -Opa, guys Virtua Fighter ...). Of course, newcomers arrive: the title eg Nights welcomes the eponymous game, Gilius Golden Axe, Vyse from Skies of Arcadia, Joe Musashi from Shinobi, but Danica Patrick, driver that comes from our "real" world and modeled for the occasion, or Ralph, the video game hero hitherto fictitious the next Disney. In total, no less than 23 characters with whom you can play, which is not much more than in Sonic Racing, but this time they are ten on the track. Well, sure, we would certainly want a larger rather than replacements and characters to limit the duplicate cast, but the choice is already extensive.


I'VE GOT A FEELING

We can say that Sonic Racing Transformed be redeemed is one. If the three means of locomotion prove handy and each have a different approach (grip, cornering speed ...), we also note that driving is less automated than in Sonic Racing goodbye, strange that we collisions remettaient squarely in the right way. To quibble, one might say that it lacks still sometimes a little pep under the hood. If we find the same classic but effective system skids and figures for turbos and the usual items. If representation is a most original hair in the previous episode, the effects have nothing transcendent, and even bonus "all-star" has lost some of its luster.

Sonic Racing Transformed manages to make a little personal touch away somewhat from the hallowed Grand Prix mode (although it is still present) with a main mode consists of 'tests. Specifically, players are invited to unlock game content gleaning stars in different missions, each with three levels of difficulty. If we can pester a little against its linearity, this mode is still well designed and really allows us to experience the game from all angles. It also helps to gain experience for the drivers to unlock mods altering their statistics. What a clever way to overcome the impossibility of separating a driver his favorite vehicle!


THE HOUSE OF THE FUN

Obviously, next to the career mode and prize mode, there is the never-ending race against the clock, as well as the different modes designed for multiplayer who like to fight in arenas locally or online. We will say yes, to many, it will still be shopping, more inventive, hold our attention. The final impression is still that of a game that has learned from its mistakes, despite the flaws that remain entrenched as the loading time really breadsticks or frame rate still too low compared to our requirements . But the effort is there, and they have borne fruit.

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DRAGON QUEST VII

Whatever the era or generation in vogue, there will always be a Dragon Quest to serve as a beacon for fans of Japanese RPGs. While everyone was waiting on PSP for easy carrying since the first PlayStation, Dragon Quest VII, one of the few episodes left so far untouched, is back in a brand new adaptation of 3DS, with great fanfare graphics 3D and orchestral music. Square Enix is ​​clearly set means, but this abundance of effects is it really the interests of the game?

TERRA INCOGNITA

In the constellation Dragon Quest, the seventh episode is both one of the most unusual and one of the most symbolic. A game can both make the finger to the technical ambition in transition PS2 to better balance 100 hours of pure gameplay (including a 3-minute cinematic moldy) or many small scenarios juxtaposed seemingly unrelated, the less it is believed for several tens of hours. Respectful of tradition, Dragon Quest VII be careful not to identify the real threat, the demon behind the torments, merely evoke distant legends between God and his servants. At the heart of this struggle millennium, a small group of friends isolated in the middle of the ocean, which will revive continents mysteriously buried exploits strength, as if guided by an invisible hand. Trips across the centuries, like little episodes that encourage them to go to sea again return to Fishbel to explore the unknown lands.

Dragon Quest VII: Warriors of Eden - Screenshot éditeurExcellant as always in the art of suggestion, while others prefer to dwell, this seventh episode chooses to mention filigree some highlights of the adventure, and the sudden disappearance the tragic sacrifices, unexpected deliverance, as many highlights as always treated with simplicity, modesty, on the air the story. Helping transition, this 3DS version dares some effects of staging, with close-ups and camera angles adjusted well to enjoy the new achievement. But simplicity is still required, no offense to those who hoped for more exposure.


3DQ

The respect for tradition is one thing, but you have to comply with current expectations of the players. 3D and to hell with the random battles. About 3D, or almost nothing to say. After the shock of seeing the trees grow in two stages, the most radical way to manage display distances, is allowed to be charmed by these chubby character models, more detailed and better animated evolution models of Dragon Quest IX. Weapons and shields fitted appear in combat tunics adapt to changes in class, the scale between the characters and environments is roughly consistent, and the chosen color with elegance. Toriyama's style is always in the spotlight, even in the attitude of monsters, all of which have the right to special events, and classes depending on the situation (attack, sleep or killing). We also appreciate the attention to detail that drives the main characters between frantic races Maribel childhood friend of Gabo and rides on his wolf, all these movements breathe life to the company.

This epic, is also found on the side of the sound, absolutely phenomenal on 3DS. From the first notes of the Overture, when the trumpets roar, we understand that Square Enix put the package, deciding to print the symphonic versions of cartridge. And for those who have already had the chance of getting an orchestral album of Dragon Quest, or simply on the PS2 episodes, the difference is very clear with what we heard, especially on DS. Velvet, with a sound mix that highlights the unexpected qualities of speakers 3DS - then the helmet is necessarily ecstasy. Dragon Quest VII is deemed addition to being one of the best episodes with compos issue, with Koichi Sugiyama in top form, a theme of struggle that beats and poignant melodies. You will not forget the most beautiful music of this component, magnified this mobile website. And it is true that in such a context, the NES sounds typically contrasted badly with the splendor of music. But we begin to have the habit.

The environments have also been reworked to fully exploit the 3D display, with some light effects and a raised camera to better manage the illusion of depth. Accordingly, the action appears on the top of the screen unlike previous portable remakes, the bottom offers a better map of the area. Some important sequences of the story, as the crossing of the ancient tree or the appearance of Melvin at the top of "the highest tower in the world," back transfigured. However, it is advisable to replace the angle via the options to gain some distance and flexibility in the management of rotations. It is also common in the wrong direction when out of town or a stairway, and return to the previous step to a silly story camera. That said, despite these few minor flaws and jerks, Dragon Quest VII 3DS version is a feast for the eyes, not to mention an eye-feast, which ranks in the top three of the best 3D games in the machine. Only downside, this angle too close in general and tend to cut the outline of the characters in battle for some reason that escapes us. But we are still very far from the ugliness of the original game.


NO CHOICE BUT TO KIEFER

This remake is welcome to boost the pace of the game we know, this episode is colossal: the original game extended over a hundred hours a playing time in a straight line regardless of any distractions (casino, small medals park monsters). Dragon Quest VII on PSone be paid in addition to the luxury of a prologue shaped against foot-three hours without any struggle to better instill the atmosphere full of puzzles and mystery own this episode. On 3DS, thirteen years later, it is preferred to marry the trend and accelerate the movement as much as possible. The first slime arise after half past one exploration - it's something - and no random battles limit the stress factor, leaving the player free to dodge and even choose their prey. From this point of view, Dragon Quest VII maintains a good balance between appearance of monsters and exploration; seen architecture levels and narrow corridors, it is common to be hunting, but the speed of the fighting, trademark Series, is a blessing for the pace of the game

The progression of different classes was significantly accelerated, although it will still reach the twentieth time before you finally have access. To put it simply, Dragon Quest VII shows the system of the previous episode, with a dozen base classes, where the most powerful hybrid will flow once mastered. Gladiator and Priest open to Paladin + Mage Priest on Sage, Paladin and Battlemaster on God Hand, and so on. This is again the number of fights that determines the progress made in a class with a small sham anyway, since it will fight in areas consistent with your level to the counter (invisible) climbs. No stress levels rise very slowly from a cape and fights will generally recognized as long as you follow the script. Step by step, the player will unlock new skills without agonizing over the base classes are too fragile to make the weight. In contrast, and unlike the original game, the player does not necessarily keep the unlocked skills from one class to another. A revival of specialization that does not harm the balance of gameplay, since we must now make choices to build a cohesive team.

Have a hacker to unlock the Sword Dance skill that affects four times, champing at the bit by peeping dancers and priests to target the most useful classes thereafter: in the one case as in other, fighting it connects with appetite, with a still adjusting to the hair of the difficulty, whether the increased level of skills or weapons / armor shop. To believe that Dragon Quest still lives just above the poverty line, with bosses who are tapping into your ultimate resource. Finally, there is the possibility of becoming a monster himself by collecting "hearts" of certain creatures, chests or randomly. Not only skills will be retained, but the characters can even be transformed once past master in the art of slime or Mimic. Monsters and traditional grades, more than fifty occupations are possible, trying the game as far as possible to guide you on the possible combinations (and rapidly changing) when passing in front of the priest Dharma.


SHELF IN CHOCOLATE

If the pace of Dragon Quest VII has undergone profound changes, it remains an RPG of 2000, with a game design whose design goes back much longer. In today's taste, some archaisms can put off, and not just talking about managing backups to the church (despite the presence of a quick backup for mobile players). In the Japanese version, the interface is still simplistic, with text and sausages as a menu, anyway, when Square Enix ventures to integrate a little more graphical interface for the device, the display is laborious if we come to prefer the old fashioned way, two validations, to adjust his swords.

But the true side retrograde is expressed primarily in the structure of the game, which is based on a number of trips rather indigestible, finely chop up the tempo. Some sequences, such as the escape from the prison, based on an accumulation of short trips point A / point B which can drag on for as long as we forgot to mention the important villagers or attended mandatory cutscene. Inherent to most JRPG default, this episode which bears all the marks, since all multiplies by two, by dint of comings and goings in the past and the present. To retrieve the tablets that unlock access to new worlds once again back to the central temple, the group will return to the village issued a few centuries earlier, which often induces two passages in identical environments often. If the narrative wins - past actions sometimes cause drastic changes in the population - was especially felt that the difficulty in establishing and repeat too often the same routes scenario.


SUPER GUIDE

The worst: it is common to get stuck for lack of evidence, or simply for failing an isolated hut yet hiding a piece of lithographer. It was even possible to be permanently stuck in the original version if you forgot dispatcher conscientiously shelves at a very precise moment of adventure. Aware of these problems, Square Enix has made sure to eliminate this kind of bugs and add a multitude of aids for not finishing empty-handed. A very ugly goblin, gender scribbled Toriyama between two checks, "guide" and adventurers to the central temple. Finally, "guide" is a big word because it has a tendency to endlessly repeat the same phrases, so we come to the snub very quickly. However, the radar tells you that, so Dragon Ball, is the surest way not to zap a piece of tablet, much more than the fortune teller for example. The best way not to lose the thread is still the "Recent Events", coupled with the menu "Next" tablet, two additions specific to the 3DS version that translate well discomfort interface. An essential integrated mini-walkthrough for not too much hassle indefinitely between past and present ... provided you have a few basic Japanese.

A final word on the social dimension of this episode, that respects the tradition initiated with flaps DS. Thematic forces, it is again a matter of collecting lithographic stones. Related to the players, they are home to a new dungeon to go, just to climb the XP and recover a rare item once the defeated boss. The tablets in question may also be edited before sharing. The little novelty here comes random Internet communications and tablets out regularly sponsored by Square Enix and his associates. What guarantee beautiful overtime game, between that and the big main quest Annex post-adventure.

Square Enix rarely pleasant when it comes to Dragon Quest and this remake of the seventh component does not betray this reputation seriously. Terribly long, if not untied, this episode PSone back in a technically flawless release and accompanied by orchestral times absolutely divine, served urgently to headphones without missing a beat. The classic and effective game system, just use a dense adventure, which proceeds by small steps to spread a monumental life cheerfully over one hundred hours. The episodic structure of Dragon Quest VII is both its greatest strength and a weakness. Nomads players relish as they should these small, often poignant and well-written sketches, even losing the thread of the story they leave their odyssey side too long, bewildered by both the slow pace and dizzying content the title. Fortunately, Square Enix has also thought of them with some adjustments sometimes gadgets, but often welcome. This is also what the country of service.

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