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Super Mario 64 Average Customer Review:  Game Cartridge US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France Editorial Review The game that launched the Nintendo 64 system stands the test of time as one of the first andbest exploratory action/adventure games. Guide the legendary plumber through an incredibly vast magicalworld with never-before-seen movement and camera-angle freedom. Mario's got the moves with graduatedspeeds of running and walking, jumps, super jumps, bounce attacks, swimming, and more. The more youplay, the more moves you'll discover. This industry milestone game lets gamers play at their own pace, encouraging them to explore new nooksand crannies of its many levels with a Zen-like approach where the journey is as important as the goal.Other N64 games such as Zelda, Banjo-Kazooie, and Donkey Kong 64 all owemuch of their inspiration to this gem of a game. A showcase for the system's graphics and processing speedcapabilities, Super Mario 64 is a must-have for any N64 owner. --Jeff Young Pros:
Features Reviews (203)
As others have said, the basic story of the game is classic Mario: Bowser has kidnapped the Princess, and Mario must rescue her. To do this, he must collect a minimum of 70 stars from the 15 worlds in the game. These worlds are accessed by jumping through paintings and other objects scattered throughout the Mushroom Castle, plus there are 15 stars contained within the castle itself. Although you only need 70 stars to finish the game, there are a total of 120 stars available for collection, and you won't be satisfied until you have collected each one. The 15 worlds have varying levels of difficulty, but each and every world has some easy stars and some that are very difficult. It took me about 100 hours total to collect all 120 stars and rescue the Princess the first time. Each level has a different theme. Some are on mountains, some are in water-filled caves, and there is one set inside a giant clock. My personal favorite is the haunted house level. The gameplay in Mario 64 is exceptional. Mario has many different types of moves, ranging from tiptoeing around sleeping enemies, to a great long jump, to a very difficult-to-master wall jump. You must master all the moves if you expect to get all 120 stars. Also, there are three special hats scattered throughout the game that allow Mario to fly, walk underwater, and become invisible. Again, all are vital for 120 stars. After you finally win, you might expect that you will never want to take on such a huge task again. But, such is not the case. Even though you have all 120 stars, you can go back to levels you have beaten and play them over and over, as much as you want. You'll be tempted to do just that. The experience of playing through the incredible world of the Mushroom Castle is such that you will be coming back for many repeat visits.
Asin: B00000F1GM |
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Nights Into Dreams Average Customer Review:  Video Game US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France Reviews (15)
Nights is an amazing, creative game and I wish they would have made a sequel. Nights is full of colorful levels and can be pretty challenging at times. The graphics really show off Saturn's power. As for play control, you need the 3D controller to play which looks like the Dreamcast controller where you use the analog controller to do moves that a regular D-pad couldn't do. The story line is confusing but interesting like the rest of the game. Overall Nights is a captivating, original game that every Saturn owner should have.
First of all, this game has some the prettiest graphics to be found anywhere. No, not the smoothest, not the highest polygon count, not the most astonishingly technically ect, ect. This game may be old, but the graphics have STYLE, they flow, and they are FAST. Secondly, the music of this game is some of the coolest ever produced for a video game. From the neat intro to the music played after you defeat a boss or a level, the music in Nights is pure magic (except perhaps for the terrible end game music). And not only that, the music changes in the levels depending on how you interact with Nitopians and how well you do. But of course the real thing that makes any game great is GAMEPLAY, and this is the area where Nights is mind-blowing. Every level is a 3d on tracks wild ride, morphing, spinning, zooming, and zipping. Through these levels you are constantly trying to at a brisk pace in order to keep from running out of time. And you are trying to rack of bonus points. And then, you reach the only part of the level and wonder...should I go around again for more points, or should I play it safe and exit the level now? You'll only get good points if you exit BEFORE time's up AND get tons of bonus points. And then there's the bosses. They may be pretty easy to beat, but you're timed. Beat them faster to rack up more points. Beat them slow to, well...lose points. It all becomes quite addictive, quite quickly. And controlling Nights is breeze with the Saturn 3d analog controller (I Do NOT recommend using the standard saturn controller for this game. It's not nearly as intuitive and just takes too much away from the experience.) About the only major negative point that can be made in reguard to this game is that it's too short. If it had double the amount of levels it would be perfect. But even at it's tragicly short length, Nights is an undisputed classic. Every level has replay value galore, thanks to the grading system, and the previously mentioned interactive soundtrack. And even when you've long since beaten the game and played it to death, you'll find yourself picking it up once in while for one more try at breaking your highest score. All in all, it's worth buying a SEGA Saturn for this game alone.
This game takes place in a dream world, literally, known as Nightopia. The two "main characters", Elliot and Claris, fall to sleep and that's when this takes place. It's a strange story, as the evil Wizard Wizeman in Nightopia is after Ideya, which are orbs of power possessed by sleeping humans. There are five different kinds if Ideya, each representing a different trait: white for purity, green for wisdom, yellow for hope, blue for intelligence, and red for bravery. Red is the rarest of the five, and the two protagonists have it. And he's after it. Yeah, weird, huh? Even stranger is how the gameplay is so incredible. You take form of a Nightmaren... creatures created by Wizeman to find Ideya. To his top two Nightmaren, Reala and NiGHTS, he has given free will. Reala follows Wizeman, but NiGHTS takes its own path, joining forces with Elliot and Claris to free the other Ideya from Wizeman's capture. You do so by flying around a 2D 3D world. You ask, huh? You fly around a 2D path in a 3D world, but that path constantly changes angles and direction to lead you around the entire 3D arena. Pick up 20 blue chips and deposit them into Ideya Capture containers, or whatever they're called, and you'll break it open, freeing the Ideya. Deposit it back to a checkpoint and you'll take a new path to another Ideya Capture thing. There is no health bar, only a timer. If you run out of time your score gets reset and you have to start that round over. On completion of four rounds, you proceed to the boss of the level. After each round and boss you'll receive a grade based on your performance, and then an average grade for the whole level. If your grade is C or better, you'll proceed. Otherwise, you fail and have to try over again. Get an A on all levels, and you get the true ending. Sounds really really really plain, right? Well, it can be, if you just go straight through each level not going for an A. Once you start shooting for a higher grade, though, is when you'll see why people rave so much about this game. The smoothness of your motion and the near-perfect design of the levels and rounds makes for a game that is beauty in motion, and challenging to perfect. People who love this game call this game the Masterpiece of Sonic Team, rather than their other more popular and well-known work... like, uh... Sonic. As for the graphics, well, they're smooth and flowing with cool effects. Excellent visuals. Bluntly, this game can be close to perfection if you can handle it. Many may be turned off by the concept and gameplay, but those who can see further into it will get something more than a fun game out of this. It's an experience. The one and only bad thing about this game is that Sonic Team is too scared to try to make a true sequel because of the standards set by the original. If you absolutely need more NiGHTS, look for the small extra Christmas NiGHTS. ... Read more Asin: B00002STUI |
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Resident Evil Average Customer Review: CD-ROM US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France Reviews (14)
you can play as jill valentine or chris redfield. they are to stars members investigating a mansion after the alpha team turns out missing. i recomend this game to everyone ... Read more Asin: B000035XUZ |
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Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time Average Customer Review: Game Cartridge list price: $39.99 US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France Editorial Review The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time may be the greatest single-player video game ever created in any genre. It's that good. Those new to Nintendo's enormously popular Zelda series will be glad to know this game stands completely on its own. Our hero, Link, starts the game as a young boy living in a magical forest village populated by elf-like children. But there is evil lurking in the world. Strange monsters are appearing, and the land is changing. It's up to Link to discover why, defeat the monsters, and stop the evil at its source. The game world's ever-changing environment looks like a fairy tale come to life. Majestic waterfalls, towering castles, and magical forests are a feast for the eyes and ears. Rivers flow, rain falls, the sun and moon rise and set. There's even an erupting volcano! Exploring this world is half the fun of the game. Along the way, you learn musical tunes that you can play on the flute-like Ocarina, a magical device that helps you teleport, alter the weather, even control time itself. Character interaction is important to gather clues. The fairy princesses, singing frogs, and dragons you'll meet can be cute, humorous, or somewhat terrifying. Sprinkled liberally throughout the game are hundreds of secret treasures and enjoyable minigames (one of which, the fishing game, would almost be worth buying by itself). Game controls are easy to learn. There's even an elaborate fight training course built right into the game. Controlling the hero quickly becomes instinctive, and you can concentrate on saving the world. To win the game, you'll have to use not only Link's sword, but your mind as well. This game's challenging and inventive puzzles really make you think. In fact, to keep from getting stuck, it's worth spending a few bucks on an official player's guide. With The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, Nintendo has come up with an all-consuming adventure title that will provide days of engrossing gameplay. --Eric Fredrickson Pros:
Features Reviews (1217)
Seeing Link grow into early adulthood was an excellent idea. The only problem I found was that the more I played as the adult Link, the less I enjoyed returning to his childhood form. And the array of weapons adult Link carries can really spoil you...playing as child Link gets really frustrating when you're in need of the Longshot or his arrows. What I loved the most about this game was the freedom. I could stand in the middle of Hyrule Field, a beautiful grass plain, and watch the sun come up and go down. Riding Link's horse, Epona, was incredible. And Link's girlfriends throughout the game (Saria, Malon) gave you a reason to cheer him on. The is the greatest game ever created for a home videogame platform, and absolutely everybody should experience it. I still have my original file saved, right before the last boss fight, just so I can enjoy the rest of the game with all my weapons and options. I visit old dungeons, enter Lon Lon Ranch and chat with Malon, swim and fish in Lake Hylia, explore the Lost Woods, compete in the games in Hyrule Market, gallop all over Hyrule with Epona, and try to navigate the Haunted Wasteland BACKWARDS (it is HARD! ). In all, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is a game I wish I hadn't beaten yet, and was still playing. I recommend it for anyone of any age, kids and adults. I also recommend playing it with a strategy guide so you can get the most out of this wonderful game...there are so many things to do! P.S.= Remember Link's scurrying bombs, the "bombchu's"? "Chu" is actually Japanese for "kiss" (or something like that). I thought that was interesting since bombchu's rush up to enemies before they explode.
Graphics: 4/5 excellent, but can be a little better. This game can be saved at anytime and has three saving slots. If you don't at least try this game, you're missing out on a lot! ... Read more Asin: B00000DMB3 |
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Soul Calibur Average Customer Review: CD-ROM (09 September, 1999) US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France Editorial Review Featuring graphics that surpass even the amazing NFL 2K, Soul Calibur is the martial arts fighting game to end all fighting games and the game to get if you're a Dreamcast owner. Based on the arcade classic of the same name, Soul Calibur lets you choose to represent one of 10 fighters in a series of battles against your peers. If you can successfully defeat all of your opponents, you will then face the fiendish Inferno in a final showdown that will determine the fate of the world. Each of the game's warriors is armed with a different deadly weapon--sword, ax, stave, nunchaku, you name it--and an assortment of special moves all tailored to that specific weapon. The warriors include men, women, and creatures from all over the globe and from various mythologies. Each is brought to life with amazing motion-capture animation, which results in incredibly lifelike and realistic duels. If you own a Dreamcast or are thinking of buying one, do yourself a favor and add Soul Calibur to your collection. --Mike Ryan Pros:
Features Reviews (258)
First of all, pretty much everything that's been said graphically about the game is true, except the backgrounds are mostly 2D with a few 3D elements. Yoshimitsu's stage is about the only one which i know is fully 3D. Others used 2D elements which moved so that they looked like they had depth. Sound-wise, it's all instrumental, but i feel that most tracks are very fitting and all are well-composed. While i'm a little disappointed to see that Khan didn't provide any of his remixes like in Soul Edge on Playstation, their presence isn't too sorely missed. Concerning more experienced players playing against button-mashers, it really comes down to the skill of the more experienced player. Fighting against a button masher can be tricky in any fighter, though Namco's games do seem to be a bit more prone to it than Sega's VF series, for instance. Anyways, one thimg that a button-masher will do is likely attack high 75%-90% of the time, unless you break that pattern or they see that you're blocking their attacks. Anticipate this and be ready to react with a high guard or guard impact. Versus characters with a large weapon like Astaroth, you can either use the 8-way run, guard impact, or just plain guard against some attacks. Those with shorter weapons like Maxi, need to be dealt with in close, which means fights tend to a be a lot less safe (than the distance fighting some will play with Astaroth or Sigfriend), but it also gives you more chances to time those guards and guard impacts. Note that 8-way runs are less effective for attack evasion due to the fact that the quicker characters will realign themselves faster (unless stick in a combo; newbie Maxi characters are good for that). The basic canned combos (the combos that each character does when you press an attack button thrice for instance) become obvious to spot after a while. If you don't know how to guard against each attack in the combo, go into Practice Mode and play the character that you often fight against (or play them all) and do what your human opponents will do. The attack data conveniently displays where the hits land. Overall, SC is an excellent game, if not a tad bit disappointing in a few less-than-important ways (sound selection, Tekken 2-style character clones). Definitely a worty purchase for anyone who likes fighters. i'd even recommend this for those who aren't totally into fighters since it's detailed graphics and incredible style creates an interest that transcends gaming genres. Now if only Namco would announce a Tekken or Ridge Racer game for DC.
Asin: B00000K125 |
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I'll give it 2...
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Vagrant Story Average Customer Review:  CD-ROM (22 May, 2000) list price: $39.99 US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France Editorial Review Vagrant Story is one of those games that wows you at thestart--a big "WOW!" in this case--but maintains only a tenuous hook inthe long haul. In this mix of action/adventure and fantasy role-playing,players are cast as a Riskbreaker (think one-man army) namedAshley Riot, whose pursuit of a villainous cult leader takes him to themysterious city of Lea Monde. The highly stylized graphics in Vagrant Story are easily some ofthe best ever seen on the PlayStation, and give the game a gorgeous,distinctive look to match its somber tone. Cinematic story sequencesblend in almost seamlessly with gameplay, which takes place in 3-Denvironments (viewed from a third-person perspective) that can berotated to provide the best angle. Vagrant Story features a rich battle system that's built on bothstrategy and quick reflexes. In addition to character statistics,weapons and armor have detailed numbers of their own and can bedisassembled, assembled, or even combined to create new items. Hand/eyecoordination factors heavily into combat, as Ashley develops offensiveand defensive battle abilities that require perfectly timed buttonpushing in order to be used. Unfortunately, it's all too easy to get bored with VagrantStory. The painfully linear gameplay here doesn't rise abovekilling enemy after enemy in room after room, and (oh boy!) solvingpuzzles by manipulating boxes. If not for the wholly intriguing (butsparsely littered) plot, one would be strongly tempted just to leaveAshley to rot in the catacombs beneath Lea Monde. --Joe Hon Pros:
Features Reviews (95)
The game play goes as follows: You start in a dungeon...there are cut scenes from time to time, but none of them make any sense...you run around by monsters and fight. You see the monsters as you are fighting them as there are no random battles. A menu pops up after you click near a monster such as, Head: 0, 100%, Right Leg: 2, 85% and so on. From there you choose which part of the body you want to attack. Sometimes you make NO hit points against the monsters because you have to work up your weapons for each type of monster. And it is impossible to make a master weapon against all monsters. More than one weapon has to be leveled up for different monsters, and many times weapons have to be changed in midst battle which is annoying. The other complaint I had in this game is that the only way you can heal yourself is either finding a save point or using a curing item. This doesn't sound so bad, but curing items CANNOT be purchased. Instead they only can be found fighting monsters. I never seemed to have enough curing items. By the end of the game, things still didn't seem to make sense. The conclusions were unsatisfying and overall pain in the neck. The last complaint I have of this game is the feeling I got from playing it. The color scheme is bad. Everything was shades of brown or blacks and occasional greens and reds. It was a depressing feel to it, and it seemed like I never saw the light in that game. However, I can still give this game some credit. I believe that it was an attempt of a good thing. There were bad qualities about it that if only fixed a little, this game could've been great. The battle system was actually fun at times, but when things got tough and a new type of monster approached, it took way too long to level up a weapon. It is possible to enjoy this game. I found myself struggling through it, but I knew a couple who actually half ways liked it. It isn't a masterpiece in my eyes, but it had potential I think that didn't see the light of day. Pros: Cons: Estimated time to complete game in a quicker runthrough: 20 - 30 hours. Asin: B00004SPW9 |
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Both Good and Bad
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The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker Average Customer Review: Video Game (27 March, 2003) list price: $49.99 -- our price: $19.95 (price subject to change: see help) US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France Editorial Review The Legend of Zelda series practically defined adventure gaming for an entire generation. Link, the hero of the adventure games, delighted millions by starring in games for each Nintendo console from the NES and Super NES to the Nintendo 64. Link brings this beloved franchise to the Nintendo GameCube in The Legend Of Zelda: The Wind Waker, and he's more animated than ever. The first thing you'll notice about The Legend Of Zelda: The Wind Waker is that it looks completely different from any previous title in the franchise. Nintendo has opted to use cel-shading technology on Wind Waker; the result is that the game looks like a cartoon. Die-hard Zelda purists initially howled at this change, arguing that the game skews too young. I think it's fantastic. The cartoon animation style allows for better expression of the characters, and several of the animations--like Link trying to pick up an object that's too heavy--are so cute that you can't help but laugh a little. The second thing you’ll notice is a focus on wind. Instead of trotting around on foot, Link travels from island to island on a talking boat, but he doesn't get far without the wind blowing in right direction. Luckily, you'll learn how to change the direction of the wind early in the game, and you'll do so frequently--not only to power your boat but also to solve puzzles. Clever use of wind makes Wind Waker stand out from more conventional adventure games. The third thing you’ll notice is that the game is just plain fun. Puzzles are innovative and refreshing, and despite some tricky puzzles, I never felt too frustrated to keep playing. The locales you'll visit are invariably exotic and fun to explore, and the host of bizarre creatures you'll encounter (friendly and otherwise) are always a kick in the pants. Moreover, though the look is radically different, Wind Waker feels like a classic Zelda game. Veterans of the early games in the franchise will experience more than a bit of nostalgia while playing it. The Legend Of Zelda: The Wind Waker is everything you've come to expect from a Zelda game, and it's one of the best adventure games to date. This is a must-have title for any GameCube owner. --Jon "Safety Monkey" Grover Pros:
Cons:
Reviews (653)
Wind Waker takes place 100 years after Ocarina of Time. Since then, the land of Hyrule was flooded and is now known as the Great Sea. On his 12th birthday, Link's sister is kidnapped by a giant bird. Aided by a talking boat named the King of Red Lions and a magical baton called the Wind Waker, Link seeks to seal the evil that has taken his sister. Expect the same hack-and-slash action that the Zelda series is known for. Also expect to meet up with a few familiar faces from Ocarina of Time and Majora's Mask. Remember Tingle? If you connect your Game Boy Advance to your GameCube, a second player can play as Tingle and help Link out. However, Nintendo wisely decided not to make this option essential to completing your quest. Many Zelda "purists" claim that the game's graphics are too cartoony. I must say that the anime-style graphics add to the whole gaming experience. Because of the graphics, characters can express themselves like never before. They can show a wide variety of emotions through their facial expressions, which allows you to emerse yourself in Link's world. Granted, they take a little getting used to, but sooner or later, you forget that the graphics are cel-shaded. The only problem I see is that the world might be TOO big. It takes a long time to go from one island to another, and battling sea monsters can be hard at first. Once you get accustomed to using your boat, you'll wonder why Nintendo never tried this before. The dungeons are tough, and the enemies have a heightened AI, so the Wind Waker is definately not a kiddie game. If the only reason you refuse to buy this game is because of the graphics, you are depriving yourself of a gaming masterpiece.
Some have derided the game as "kiddy" (an argument often leveled against Nintendo and its products), pointing to its cartoonish cel-shaded graphics, the easy-to-understand storyline, and the young age of the protagonist, but to do so is to overlook one of the most engrossing games available for the Gamecube. While the game is certainly accessible to younger players -- the difficulty is not extraordinary, though some of the puzzles may require parental assistance -- older ones will find plenty to like. The graphical style has probably been the most hotly debated part of the entire game (which is odd, because Zelda titles have generally been renowned more for their gameplay than for flashy graphics). Rather than the texture-mapped pseudo-realistic 3D style you generally see (as in, say, Super Mario Sunshine), the entire game world is rendered with a technique called "cel-shading" (a "cel" being what traditional pen-and-ink animators call a single frame of animation). This gives the game a bright, colorful, and at times cartoonish look. It's a bit underwhelming at first, but as you explore the game world's vast terrain, you can appreciate how much style and personality it gives the game. The gameplay is similar to what was seen in Nintendo's two N64 Zelda games (Ocarina Of Time and Majora's Mask). This is not a bad thing, especially since Ocarina Of Time is widely regarded as one of the best videogames ever produced. The combat system has been slightly tweaked, as you are now able to counter-attack enemies, and you have a few more moves of your own. You can also disarm some foes, and pick up and wield various enemies' weapons. Wind Waker feels a bit less connected than the last few games, because the entire world is a giant ocean dotted with several dozen islands. Some of the islands contain sprawling towns and mysterious dungeons, while others are little more than barren points of rock (though almost all of them hold some sort of secret). Link's trusty Ocarina has been replaced by a magical conductor's baton, with which you must tap out various rhythms on the controller in order to cast magical spells. The game also features connectivity with the Game Boy Advance, allowing a second player to assist you in certain areas. For those of you who still have your doubts, I have a short story to relate: When I got this game, I was living in a dorm with about 30 other people, and as I was in school, I didn't have a ton of time to play it. My Gamecube lived downstairs in the communal TV room. One day during finals, I had nothing to do, so I went to see if I could play my new game. What I found was one of my friends playing, and about 8 other people sitting there, just watching him play and shouting helpful advice. I came back a few hours later and they were all still there. If that's not the definition of engrossing, I don't know what is.
Asin: B000084318 |
$19.95 |
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Super Mario World Average Customer Review: Game Cartridge US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France Features Reviews (48)
Just like Mario and Luigi did for the Super Mario Brothers titles on the NES, they are still collecting tons of gold coins, Bowser is still their biggest enemy, and the Princess is waiting to be rescued once again. Only this time around, their journey along the way to Bowser and the Princess will be a bit different. There are many new experiences to be held in Super Mario World. This is the game where the Mario clan first meets and uses Yoshi, the worlds and levels are bigger than ever, and the Mario brothers even have new abilities such as new flying techniques. Super Mario World is more like Super Mario Brothers 3 than any of the previous Mario adventures. You can play by yourself in a one-player game, or with a friend in a two-player game at any time. You can guide either Mario or Luigi through the 7 different world maps that are full of different kinds of memorable levels. Among these levels are haunted ghost houses, underwater environments, underground stages, a secret "Star Road," various other secret stages, a castle (one in each world) that houses the world's main Koopa boss, and so much more. For the time, Super Mario World had spectacular graphics, great sounds and music, top-notch control, and overflowing replay value and fun. It's easy for any player of any age to find out what needs to be done once they start playing this 2D action/adventure. All you really have to do is get past all the interesting enemies and get to the end of all the levels. All in all, Super Mario World is one of the best video games ever made, and it always will be! It's the game that started the Super Nintendo on the right foot, and now, it's a major classic. I wish they still made video games like this. If you're a fan of action/adventure games, platformers, or the classic 2D side scrollers (which I miss more than anything in today's games), Super Mario World is a definite must have!!
By Far one of the best SNES games besides Super Metroid...If you have an SNES then get games like Well yeah thats it...Go get Super Mario Worl if you have a SNES..Its a great game Later... ... Read more Asin: B00002STXQ |
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Metal Gear Solid Greatest Hits Average Customer Review: CD-ROM (05 November, 1999) US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France Editorial Review You are Solid Snake, a superspy who's half James Bond, half Snake Plissken, and you are mean. Your mission isn't terribly new (infiltrate a terrorist base and blow everything up), but the gameplay is: your numerous enemies are watching for you, and you are encouraged to sneak rather than simply charge in. Every level brings new challenges. You fight snipers, invisible ninjas, psychic warriors, and even an M-1 tank! As the father of the modern spy game genre, this game is an instant classic. Your allies and superiors speak to you via a cool, implanted radio,monitoring your progress, offeringtips--but failing to give you the full story. The combination of a mysterious and engaging plot and high in-game tension makes this a thrilling ride. Campy humor also abounds as you rescue beautiful women, verbally spar with your allies, and blow up enemies in the bathroom. A user-friendly control interface allows for sniping, hiding, crawling, and running, and the graphics leave nothing to be desired. If you like espionage, spy movies, or just want to own and play a piece of gaming history, then this is a must have. Metal Gear Solid is one of the all-time greats. Game tip: Secretly attach plastic explosives behind an enemy, sneak out of the room, and see what happens. --Allen Stewart Pros:
Features Reviews (255)
So with all that said, what could possibly be wrong with the game? Let's start with the game length. For a game with two disc, you'd expect days, or weeks of action, right? Nope, it took me about 15 hours to finish the game. So what about replay? Nope, exact same mission, except you're wearing a tuxedo. Woohoo! Finishing the game against again and you'll get a stealth suite, so you can finish the game in a shorter time period. Second, this game has more bad acting and campy drama then an entire week of soap operas. We're talking about prime grade, mid-afternoon soap opera drama here folks. Solid Snake is suppose to be the toughest, most experience, and most ruthless killer in the world, yet he comes this close (holding out fingers a inch apart) from crying in the game. And everytime there's a plot reversal or twist, Snake witfully snaps back, "What! " in a Clint Eastwood-esque voice. Every two minutes, someone's calling you on your radio and yaps for 10 minutes about world peace, how tough Solid is, or what they had for breakfast that morning. And what do you see for this 10 minutes? Two heads on a black screen barely moving their lips! Then you have major plot holes. Add this together, and you'll get a game that will excite you for minute, and then make you moan and gasp at the horrible writing and acting the next minute. Spend your money on a much better third-person spying game, like Tenchu or Syphon Filter.
Graphics: 3/5 Play Control: 4/5 Challenge: N/A Theme/Fun: 4.25/5 Storyline: 4.5/5 Sound/Music: 4/5 Overall: 4/5
Asin: B00001X50M |
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Super Mario All-Stars Average Customer Review: Game Cartridge US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France Reviews (34)
For the other three games, the gameplay, story, and characters' abilities are exactly the same as in the now-familiar orignals with only the addition of (as I mentioned) improved graphics and sound. To be honest, however, I wish there HAD been more changes in the games. When this game came out, Super Mario World had already been released and the purpose of All-Stars was, presumably, to allow fans of these previous games to experience them on the (then) new SNES system and to provide a somewhat more consistent Super Mario Brothers experience. The challenge of "updating" the games seems to have been handled in a particularly uninspired way, however. Aside from making the graphics look more "bubbly" and the music more appealing, there's no real difference from the originals. The appearance of all the characters and settings remain inconsistent from game to game as well as vastly inconsistent with the (then) newly released Super Mario World. Why not update all the characters, buildings, and backdrops (and perhaps some of the character abilities) to how they appear in Super Mario World? Although there certainly isn't any real problem with simply making things prettier (aside from leaving somewhat vast, unexplained gaps in the Mario Brothers story), wouldn't it have been cool to REALLY see how the gameplay would have changed had those original games been CREATED for the SNES? At any rate, Super Mario All-Stars is STILL a great game, even if only for its aesthetic enhancements to these already-entertaining games, the addition of those challenging "lost levels" and the fact that you won't have to haul out your old NES system to play them.
PROS CONS Overall, this game (or is it games?) is excellent. If you own a Super Nintendo, this is a worthwhile buy - enough said.
Asin: B000050FBJ |
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Animal Crossing Average Customer Review: Video Game (19 September, 2002) list price: $49.99 -- our price: $19.95 (price subject to change: see help) US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France Reviews (445)
fun and addictive In conclusion, this is a very fun and addictive game. The game offers a very long play time (to see everything you have to play at many different times during the year) and, since it is open-ended, the game allows for many different play styles and personal objectives. On the down side, the game is a little weak at night since most of your animals go to sleep fairly early and the shop closes at 10pm. The peak hours to play the game are more attuned to a child's schedule. It seems like Nintendo did not forsee the popularity this title would have with teens and adults.
Asin: B00006FWTX |
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Virtual On: Oratorio Tangram Average Customer Review: CD-ROM (05 June, 2000) list price: $49.99 US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France Editorial Review The first question we couldn't help asking ourselves after afew minutes of playing Virtual On: Oratorio Tangram was "Why?"More specifically, we asked why Activision would go to all the troubleof converting this game perfectly from its arcade counterpart only tostiff gamers by not letting them program the controller? OratorioTangram is all about perfect control--the arcade version uses apair of sticks that allow for all types of moves--and this Dreamcastversion contains only a handful of preset controller configurations.None of them work well, and it really hurts the gameplay. Control issues aside, this is one of the most visually stunningDreamcast titles available. The graphics are simply eye-popping, andthe loud sound effects are perfectly appropriate for a giant-robot gamelike Oratorio Tangram. If you've ever wanted a title to show offyour Dreamcast to friends, this game will do the job nicely, and itdoesn't hurt that the two-player mode is more fun than the single-playergame since both players suffer from the same controllerlimitations. With just one little addition (programmable controls),this game would have been near perfect. As it stands, the game is good-looking,but doesn't have it where it counts. --T. Byrl Baker Pros:
Reviews (26)
Most people think that VO:OT can't be played without twin sticks. This is simply not true. The DC controller is a great way to start out with virtual on. Most attacks and combinations can be learned on the controller. However, without twinsticks it is IMPOSSIBLE to play this game at high levels. Being a member of AVC (Auburn Virtual On crew) I am fortunate enough to play with some of the best Virtual On players in the US and believe me, twinsticks ARE necessary at tournament level. Some moves and combos are completely impossible without them and will never be seen unless you have them. Please don't let this discourage you from buying this game! It takes alot of time, months or even years to move up to the highest levels of playing. I've been playing for well over a year and I'm just now getting good! And besides, it's a beautiful game! The graphics aren't quite as nice looking as the arcade version, but it's as close as you can get on a home system. It's especially nice with the VGA box, which I'm sure Amazon sells:) It never slows down, and the control set and timing is exactly like the arcade. You can't ask for a better translation. It's a shame that activision removed network versus and customize modes. And cable versus is only accesible through a code. But the game makes up for it with a great training mode and plenty of options. I hope this review has helped in the decision to buy this game. This is a game that no Dreamcast owner or giant robot fanatic should be without!!!
Beautiful lush graphics, and some of the most interesting mecha design are all but a fraction of what you're getting. One on one 3-D fighting just can't get any better. The game is NOT arcade perfect as they seem to want you to believe, but it's just picky little things like shadows, and toned down weapons. The gameplay remains unchanged, and that's what counts. It's minor differences that only the super hard core arcade gamers will complain about, or notice. (the biggest being transperancy) The only catch, to this is the game was originally meant to be played with two joysticks, with two buttons on each one. Trying to take that configuration and assign it to a control pad can make for some frustrating experience. The learning curve, is like any other fighter. It's pretty steep, and not only takes a lot of practice, but is something completely different than playing Street Fighter, or Tekken. If you can sit down and learn all the game has to offer though, it won't be time wasted. I didn't see any VGA adaptor compatability on the back of the box, but unless Activision took it out, I advise that you play it on a VGA monitor if possible. I really does look that much better. The only thing keeping it from five stars is the fact that Activision took out the Network option, and isn't planning on releasing a Vs. cable box to link two Dreamcasts together and play, or the sticks. (They're passing the buck to some third-party company who is willing to look into it.) Activision is suppose to have a good track record of adding stuff to games as they come out here. A very disapointing effort on their part. But the important part is that they can't butcher the game itself. 60fps, wonderful animation, and deep game play make this one of the best Dreamcast titles yet. It's not for everyone, but sure is fun.
Did I mention that the animation is silky smooth, the graphics are some of best that the Dreamcast can produce and action is fast and furious. The frame rate never drops below the standard 60 and this makes for some great action. The time and effort taken to produce each Mech is seen in the level of detail for each character. The character backround stages are also exceptional which makes for some serious eye candy. This game looks GOOD! If you had second thoughts then sweep them away and get this, you won't regret it! ... Read more Asin: B00004TBGX |
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Donkey Kong Country Average Customer Review: Game Cartridge US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France Reviews (27)
With a revolutionary graphics engine and fantastic gameplay to boot, 'Dkc' took the gaming world by storm and indeed acted as the final nail in the Megadrives coffin. Also notable is that this was the first 'Big hit' from gaming giants Rare who would follow with the classics 'Goldeneye' and 'Perfect Dark'. Another important point is that this game 'is' completely without flaws, the rendering is perfect and the games music is one of the best soundtracks ever recorded. In technical retrospect 'Dkc' is a 2d sidescroller with a 3d graphics overhaul, in English any fan of platformers should not be without this inspirational classic. 'Donkey Kong Country' was also the largest ever cartridge at the time carrying a massive (at the time) 32mb, and 'til this very day the game remains a classic. If you still have a Snes or your a retro gaming fan like myself you should pick this up as soon as possible.
The gameplay was original. Same with characters and eveything. DKC was probably the best DK game ever.. If you like DKC then get the second one..It's got all the same of 1 but with some some new stuff mixed with it...This is a GREAT game! Get it if you're an SNES fan such as myself...Get it if you can find it... Later... ... Read more Asin: B00002SVFZ |
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Banjo-Kazooie Average Customer Review: Game Cartridge (10 January, 2000) US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France Editorial Review Banjo-Kazooie mimics the look and feel of Mario 64, a truly innovative and visually stunning game that belongs in any Nintendo 64 collection. But don't brush off this 3-Daction-adventure as an uninspired clone. On the contrary, Banjo-Kazooie introduces more than enough originality to warrant a spot next to its famous mentor. The game introduces two of the most charming virtual heroes in recent years--the goofy, floppy honey bear, Banjo, and his faithful, feathered sidekick Kazooie. In the game's introduction, we discover that the sinister witch Gruntilda not only nabbed Banjo's sister Tooty, but stole her beauty as well. Naturally, it's up to the bear-bird team to retrieve Tooty and rid the world of one darned inconsiderate witch. In this beautifully-rendered and massive game world, players run, jump, swim, climb, and flip over obstacles, defeat all sorts of "baddies," and find and collect numerous items and clues that help the quest to progress. Playing as both Banjo and Kazooie, players hone their characters' actions, learning nearly two dozen special moves that help players expertly defeat foes and successfully tread through the nine worlds. Banjo-Kazooie is one of those games that can demand hours upon hours of perseverance, patience, and learning of skills to complete. But don't let that discourage you. This epic game is so much fun that reaching the end will be an afterthought. --Eric Twelker Pros:
Reviews (101)
Asin: B00000DMAQ |
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Sonic Adventure Average Customer Review: CD-ROM (09 September, 1999) list price: $19.99 US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France Editorial Review After several years in video game retirement, Sonic the Hedgehog returns as the star of a graphically stunning 3-D adventure game that blows away every other game in the genre. Sonic is joined by five of his friends in a massive quest that spans over 50 game levels filled with remarkable visuals and a pulsating soundtrack. Taking full advantage of the unprecedented processing power of the Dreamcast, Sega's development crew, Sonic Team, has designed several gravity-defying game levels that will keep gamers hooked. Our favorite level is Windy Valley, which requires you to survive the stormy perils of a tremendous tornado. This tyrant of nature chases you relentlessly before ultimately sucking you into the air and up through its eye. During the chase, the tornado manages to tear up just about everything on the screen. This dizzying visual spectacle moves so fast that you will literally hold on to the game controller for dear life. Assuming you survive the tornado, there are several more challenging areas to conquer, including a level that requires you to snowboard directly in the path of a fast-approaching avalanche. During the Emerald Coast level, you will race across a precarious dock as a killer whale attacks from below, destroying the wood planks underneath your feet while you attempt to outrun the crazed creature. We also liked the numerous mini-games scattered throughout this title. When you least expect it, Sonic Adventure tosses in some old-fashioned arcade action, such as pinball or bumper car racing. In between, you can raise virtual pets, known in the game as "Chao." These characters, which are saved using the optional Visual Memory Unit (VMU), can be combined with other Chao characters exchanged between friends or downloaded via the Internet. Gamers looking to show off the strong processing power of the 128-bit Dreamcast will definitely want to pick up this title. Simply put, Sonic Adventure's graphics surpass those of any other game currently available on any home video game system. Let the Sonic assault begin. --Brett Atwood Pros:
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Features Reviews (259)
a) Sega has all but given up on the DreamCast and is now moving on to being a third party developer b) memories of playing this game when I bought my DreamCast last year comes flooding back This is a beautiful game and it will always be one of my favorite games on the DreamCast. It isn't really as fun as Sonic 1 or 2 on the Genesis, simply because it is heck lot more complicated...but if you like a) Detailed Graphics b) Clear sound c) A good adventure game This one is for you. I can't even think about a single reason why the Playstation's/PS2 popularity is continuing when the DreamCast has a much better mascot and a great game like this. Also you'll be moved by the heartbreaking story of the robot ally E-102 or something (that part when he died and the little bird was finally together with amy's bird) will make you want to cry. All in all, I'm kind of saddened that Sega's console is fading but if any game whose top notch gameplay can remain an eternal tribute to the dying console, then Sonic Adventure stands at the top, shining like the brightest star in the universe. Play it and remember it.
The plot is great. With the whole chao processing boss levels and the plot with Eggman. This just about the best Sonic game ever. I thought Sonic 2 was great...THIS IS THE BEST! I loved the plot too. It was just so great for me. Gameplay Camera... Graphics.. Voices are horrible in this game...Listen to it in Japanes...It's better then the horrible English voice acting..But the music and sound make up for it..4/5 Sound Sonic Adventure is everything you wanted in a sonic game...It will always be from my opinion sonics.....GREATEST....Adventure... Thats what the game should have bin titled..I also like how everytime you meet a character you gain them..Thats pretty cool OVER ALL THIS GAME GETS A 5 OUT OF 5...GREAT GAME...I LOVED IT... Classic Dreamcast Game... Later... ... Read more Asin: B00000K3X9 |
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Mario Paint Average Customer Review:  Game Cartridge US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France Reviews (7)
family friendlyness,2400/5 Difficulty?/5 etc.
In 1992, Nintendo released Mario Paint. This was basically their take on the "paint" program found on most computers, but with a lot of fun extras. Read on for my opinions. Graphics: It depends on what you draw. N/A Play Control: The mouse is a bit tricky to use at first. It comes with a hard mouse pad, since most player |
This butchered everything related to Mario!