Bayonetta

Bayonetta was released in Japan in October 2009 and North America and Europe in January 2010 on both the PS3 and XBox 360. Developed by Platinum Games under director Hideki Kamiya and published by Sega, it's an all-out action game.

The Japanese box art for Bayonetta.

You take on the role of Bayonetta, a witch with some serious fighting skills and a zesty personality. When I first started playing this game I was genuinely surprised at how frantic the gameplay is. You are immediately thrown into a tutorial battle with lots of angelic enemies and the action is incredibly high-paced.

It took me a few minutes to get to grips with things but I instantly noticed how fun this game was. Bayonetta's high-heels are also pistols. So she is weilding four guns at once. Brilliant madness.

The battle system is easy to get to grips with but as more weapons become available it quickly becomes obvious that it's very rich, with hundreds of combos at your disposal.

As I said - epic boss battles.

Bayonetta is not a game to be taken seriously when it comes to the story and characters. The cast are wacky, the dialogue is at times rather funny, tongue-in-cheek and sweary. This isn't a kids game! It's also very gory and has moments which are truly over the top, but I think that's part of the charm here. Some of the stages which embrace older games and different genres really put a smile on my face, too. One of the stand out points for me though is just how epic the boss battles are. The sheer scale of many enemies and the smooth animations are very impressive.

When you put these elements together, what you are left with is a really fun experience accompanied by an upbeat and excellent soundtrack. However, it's not an easy game. There are secrets scattered throughout which offer a great challenge and you only unlock hard mode after completing the game on the already tricky normal setting.

My copy of Bayonetta on PS3.

Bayonetta 2 is set for release on Wii U despite Nintendo owners not having an opportunity to play the first game. It also means I won't have an opportunity to play the sequel! Bugger.

Either way, you can most likely find a copy of this game for your PS3 or XBox 360 at a reasonable price. I bought my copy of the game on a whim and it was a great decision.

Gary

Sonic Advance

Developed by Sonic Team/Dimps and published by Sega, Sonic Advance was released on the Game Boy Advance in 2001/2002. This was the blue blur's second appearance on a Nintendo console and his first original title on one. Sonic on Nintendo. Still crazy in the minds of some, I'm sure! However, Nintendo have become his most adoptive home without doubt.

Sonic approves.

Sonic games used to be absolutely brilliant. The original Sega titles are undoubtedly among the greatest of their genre but in more recent times, the hedgehog's outings have been less well received. I'm glad to say that Sonic Advance is really very good. 

You can play as Sonic, Tails, Knuckles or Amy. Having the choice of different characters is fun and certainly gives the game great replay value as each character possesses some different moves. Of course, you'll also want to collect rings and finish zones in the shortest time possible so there are a few good reasons to want to play this game again.

There's plenty of speed, as you'd expect.

Sonic has his modern look here, which is something I have gotten used to but I do wish he was never so dramatically redesigned. The characters don't speak though, which is a good thing! Despite his appearance, this game does feel like classic Sonic. The level designs are nice and actually rather large. Visually it's really impressive and everything is vibrant and colourful,  from pinball machines to snowy peaks. Each zone has two acts and a boss at the end of each. As usual, Dr. Robotnik (I refuse to call him Eggman!) is up to no good. Also, the music is glorious.

Knuckles the Ace-chidna. I'll get my coat.

On top of the sleek platforming action, there's an additional game feature called Tiny Chao Garden, in which you raise a Chao. It features two mini-games and you use rings from the main game for purchasing fruits and a few other things to keep your pet Chao happy. I guess it's a nice little touch and a way to kill a bit of time between turns at the main game, and you can connect to two of the Sonic games on Gamecube if you wish to.

My copy of Sonic Advance. I love the Sonic Team logo!

Going back to Sonic and co. now, this game really is a joy. If it had been called "Sonic 4" I don't really think too many people would have complained at the time (Of course, we have Sonic 4 now, but that's a different story.). It's a challenging yet fun experience. Thankfully you gain a life when you collect 100 rings and you can find additional ones in power-up boxes scattered throughout the game. You'll be needing them!

This is a strong game and a worthy addition to the collection of any fans of Sonic and his pals. I look forward to getting my hands on Sonic Advance 2 & 3 in the future.

Oh, and here's a little trick. On the character select screen, highlight Sonic (He should be the default selection.) and press - up, right, down, right, L, right, R, right, A. You should hear the sound of a ring being collected indicating correct input. Enjoy!

Gary

Metroid: Zero Mission

The Metroid series is a strong favourite of mine. I was first introduced to the dark, mysterious world of Metroid in probably around 1991, when I played the original NES title. Metroid: Zero Mission is an enhanced remake of that original game, and what a wonderful experience it is. 

Incredibly colourful screens make
Zero Mission highly attractive.

Released in 2004 on the Game Boy Advance and develeoped by Nintendo R&D1, Zero Mission acts as a look back to the past. The game opens with Samus Aran, the heroine of the series, telling of her mission to planet Zebes in order to destroy Mother Brain, who is commanding the Space Pirates. The Space Pirates are planning on farming Metroids for certain mass destruction and the bounty hunter has been sent to put an end to this.

Zero Mission plays more like Super Metroid than it does the original, which is certainly not a bad thing. The controls are perfect and while it's a relatively easy game to pick up and have a go at, mastering it is another story.  You'll learn a little more about Samus Aran as a character as you go along, too. There are some wonderfully animated sections detailing important plot points at various parts of the game.

Kraid does not look happy to see Samus.

As Samus, you begin your adventure with a basic version of the power suit. Collecting different weapons, upgrades and abilities, you will unlock the skills needed to traverse the tunnels of Zebes. There are many hidden items to be found, too. On my most recent playthrough I only uncovered 65% of the items. I also clocked Zero Mission in under five hours, which does bear a slight problem. This game is rather short, considering I got the ending for the slowest completion time.

The Metroid series knows how to do epic bosses.

It's not something which bothers me, personally (No, not getting the ending for slow completion!) but I can see why it may put off others. Don't be put off by that figure. This game has tremendous replay value. Upon completion on Normal mode, Hard mode is unlocked. Enemy damage is increased and item effects are reduced. There's an option to link up with a copy of Metroid Fusion for some bonus features. Also, completion of the game once on any difficulty will unlock the original Metroid for play! Perhaps the best thing about Zero Mission is the added game content. Where the story of the original game ends, Zero Mission continues. This new section of the game also marks the first appearance of a playable Zero Suit Samus. It's brilliant.

My copy of Metroid: Zero Mission.

Zero Mission looks stunning. As atmospheric as the Metroid games are, there is always room for beauty in the graphical style. The colours are vibrant with backgrounds changing as you explore the labyrinthine world of Zebes. Subtle details give the different areas great depth and it's a pleasure to kill aliens in this strange land. You'll need to remember where things are once you gain new power-ups. Of course, the added map feature makes this significantly less harrowing than the original version of the game.

Coupled with the amazing (And at times eerie.) soundtrack, Metroid: Zero Mission is undoubtedly one of the best games available on the Game Boy Advance. I'm not sure which I prefer though - this game, or the equally brilliant Metroid Fusion? Can I say both? 

You may find yourself playing time and time again, hoping to get that 100% game file or the fastest completion time. An absolute classic.

Gary

The Legend of Zelda: A Link To The Past & Four Swords

The Zelda series is one of my absolute favourites, without question. A Link To The Past is legendary. Originally released on the SNES to critical acclaim, this is the Game Boy Advance port which was released in 2002 in North America and 2003 in other regions. Some minor changes to A Link To The Past include vocal grunts and other sounds effects being added. It also included an extra game. Good stuff.

The beautifully coloured title screen.

Now, unfortunately I can't say a whole lot for Four Swords as I've actually never had the chance to play it. The reason for this being that I don't have friends who also happen to have a copy of this game. Four Swords is a multiplayer adventure which requires the link cable to play. Nintendo did celebrate the 25th anniversary of Zelda with a special version of Four Swords available for download which does enable single player mode, controlling two Links. I can't wait to get my own 3DS and finally give it a go! Interestingly, Four Swords was developed by both Nintendo and Capcom and it really does look like great fun.

I love the style of Four Swords and I want to play it!

As for A Link To The Past, I must admit that I've never played this game on the SNES. I did have access to a SNES but it was sold by an older brother when the next generation of consoles came around. I do plan on buying one in the future and getting stuck into lots of classics once again. However, the focus now is on the aforementioned title.

The game opens with a story telling of a dark force sealed away after it tried to utilise the golden power for evil. However, the seal has been weakened and a mysterious wizard named Agahnim has claimed the throne in Hyrule. He has sought descendants of the seven Sages who created the seal, and has just captured the seventh and final one - Princess Zelda.

Even the earlier dungeons will test your skill.

I love how the game begins. Link is in his bed, and Princess Zelda calls out for help. Link's Uncle goes to rescue her and Link follows him. Upon arrival to the castle, Link finds his mortally wounded Uncle and is entrusted with the task of saving Princess Zelda. Sword & shield in hand, your adventure begins.

A comparative look at Light World
and Dark World

It's excellently played out and really sets the mood. You are thrown right into the action and can truly feel that an epic quest lays ahead. A Link To The Past introduced some aspects which are still a staple in the Zelda series to this day, the Master Sword being an obvious one. The ocarina also makes its first appearance here, although it is called a flute in the game. However, the most notable thing is Dark World. Parallel worlds have since become a key element in the series, and it all began with A Link To The Past.

The game world really is very big thanks to this stroke of genius. In general, the Light World and Dark World look very similar but there are some wonderful differences. For example, trees have faces in the Dark World. Funnily, the trees instantly reminded me of Kirby's Dreamland. For uncovering secrets and progressing through the story, it's necessary to jump between worlds. It was a very clever trick on Nintendo's part. Even though the game could support 16 bit colours, much of the landscape tiles at times only use 8 bits and memory is compressed. This resulted in a lot of space for the developers to toy with, thus resulting in a whole world for you to get lost in.

My copy of the game and the ace manga.

As for the gameplay, it's sleek and fun. That being said, the dungeons offer a pretty steep challenge at times and you will certainly need to keep some Fairies in a couple of bottles. Secrets are well hidden and you'll be wanting to increase your number of hearts as best you can, because you will take hits.

A quicker way to cycle through sub-items would have been a nice inclusion but it's understandable that there isn't one due to the sheer number of items available. The system of assigning one to the A button from the menu works perfectly fine though, so it's okay.

Koji Kondo composed the soundtrack for A Link To The Past whereas Yuko Takehara took on the duty of writing the score for Four Swords. One of my favourite pieces of music in the main game is the theme tune of Kakariko Village.

The Zelda series really has earned its place as one of the best. Many people would claim that A Link To The Past is one of the greatest, if the not the greatest game of all time. It's certainly an essential game that I highly recommend, there's no doubt about that. Hearing that a 2nd game is in the works for 3DS is very exciting!

A light in the black, or just a fear of the dark? 

I'll leave it up to you to find out. Play this game!

Gary

Castlevania: Circle of the Moon

Known simply as Castlevania in the PAL region, this was a launch title for the Game Boy Advance released in 2001 and developed by Konami. This game adopts the "Metroidvania" style now so popular in the series. In other words - defeat boss, claim item, advance (Although it's not actually that simple at all). In regards to gameplay and artistic style, this is classic Castlevania.

The amazing Japanese box art.

However, the focus here is not on the Belmont family, as is the case in many titles in the series. Instead, you take on the role of Nathan Graves. In the opening scenes of the game, you see Dracula being revived by a woman named Camilla. Stumbling upon the act and with the rite complete, Nathan's mentor is taken captive by none other than Dracula himself. Nathan and his friend Hugh plummet to the darkest depths of the castle and Hugh sets off by himself. It's your destiny to save your mentor.

This is how vampires should be. Mean, not sparkly.

This game was very well received, and it's easy to see why. As you whip away at skeletons, demons and succubi you can't help but enjoy the experience. The DSS card system offers a fresh spin on the use of magic in the game, but that being said, obtaining all of the cards is a massive challenge.

In my current playthrough, I'm up to eighteen out of twenty cards. Not bad. There are two card classes, Action and Attribute, and basically you pair up different cards for different results.

RPG elements are present, too. Nathan has HP, MP and different stats which really are very important in this game. For example, your luck stat is crucial if you want to get your hands on some of the better pieces of equipment in the game, and those aforementioned cards! You see, you can't buy any items. You will rely solely on enemy drops. Yes, that can be frustrating at times but with a bit of luck and patience, you can get what you want.

Punching a zombie-dragon is not very clever.

Your character also levels up as you gain experience from defeating enemies, so yes, the RPG element is most certainly there. Personally, I dont mind backtracking through the castle and doing some level grinding and/or item hunting when I'm listening to music such as this.

One thing I will say is that some of the hidden enemies in this title are just so well hidden that I have stumbled across them merely by absolute chance. As a fan of the series, I had a feeling that after defeating certain bosses and seeing new enemy spawns, there must also be some fiendish, unique devils lurking somewhere. This is a very challenging game, but the challenge is a welcome one.

My PAL copy of CotM. Demon claw not included.

Interestingly, Castlevania's series producer  Koji Igarashi was not involved in the creation of Circle of the Moon, and in 2002 the title was officially removed from the Castlevania timeline. He stated that it was the intent of the development team for it to be a stand-alone title. That decision wasn't so well received by many fans, but we do still have the game to enjoy. One criticism made was that the graphical style was too dark. Playing on an original GBA (And I do own one) that's certainly a valid point, but now we have backlit systems or the ability to play on a TV using the Game Boy Player for Gamecube, so there's no excuse!

If you're a fan of Castlevania but for some reason never got to play Circle of the Moon, try to get your hands on a copy of the game. It really is a gem.

Now if you'll please excuse me, I'm off to hunt vampires.

Gary

Super Mario Advance

Released in 2001 as a launch game for the superb Game Boy Advance, Super Mario Advance is actually Super Mario Bros. 2, originally released for the NES and then included on Super Mario All Stars on the SNES.

The delightful title screen.

This GBA version is essentially the All Stars version with some aesthetical tweaks and additional features. There is some voice acting in this version, and perhaps the best of the additions is the Yoshi Challenge. This involves revisiting stages in search of Yoshi eggs. Nifty, eh?

Just before the title appears on the main screen, the Yoshi Challenge is hinted at as you can see a large Yoshi egg perched on a ledge. There's also a remake of Mario Bros. on here, which is the original arcade game and still good fun to play to this day. It's better in 2 player mode though, so unless you've got a link cable handy for your GBA and a friend who also has the system...well, you can't play 2 player!

The artwork for Doki Doki Panic.

Anyway, back to the main title available here. I've always had a soft spot for this game. I have the original NES version (Which I will get around to eventually!) and have always enjoyed it. As many will already know, this game wasn't even supposed to be a Mario game!

You see, the "real" Super Mario Bros. 2 was deemed to be too tough for Western players. Nintendo's solution to this problem was to remodel the main characters in Japanese game "Yume Kōjō: Doki Doki Panic" with characters from the world of Mario.

I loved being able to play as either Mario, Luigi, Toad and Princess Toadstool (As she was known in the original, although in the GBA version it was changed to Princess Peach.), as each of the characters has a unique feel and their strengths really do make selecting them for different levels in your attempt to stop Wart a must.

You have to use these keys to open locked doors...but be careful!

The soundtrack is fantastic, as Koji Kondo works his magic to truly bring the game to life with his unique style and amazingly catchy melodies. However, don't be fooled by the pleasant overworld theme.

This game is hard as nails. Not only will you be platforming in traditional fashion, but also vertically. The waterfalls with their logs can be particularly tricky, even at the beginning of the game, and the sand sections can be challenging too. There are many dangers, in many different forms.  I still fear those golden masks who appear down certain vases!

My copy of Super Mario Advance.

World 1-3 has a warp zone which will take you straight to world 4-1, but it's almost a bad idea in many regards, as the spike in difficulty is pretty steep. There are also a few other warp zones well hidden in some later levels.

So yeah, you will die. A lot. That being said, the challenge is a thoroughly enjoyable one, and with that in mind this game is highly replayable. If you've never clocked this game, get to it as it's well worth it! I'll happily visit the land of Subcon many times more.

Gary

World 1-1

Welcome to my world! I've been contemplating the creation of this blog for quite some time now. I have finally decided to stop thinking and start doing.

My first encounter with a video game system would have been in 1990, if I recall correctly. It was a NES that a cousin had. I would have most certainly played a couple of the games, but a little man wearing red & blue stuck in my mind. Keep in mind, I was but three years old!

It was a year later, or perhaps later that same year that my parents bought a NES for my siblings and I to play on. There was that little man in the red & blue clothes again! Of course, I speak of none other than Mario! Super Mario Bros. was bundled with my NES, the cartridge containing both the classic platformer and light-gun shooter Duck Hunt.

What lay ahead for me?

I still have my NES and those peripherals, all still in working order. At this moment in time though, they are rather far away from my current location...but I do promise that I'll get around to writing about them in greater detail at a later date. This is merely a short tale of how I became immersed in the world of video games.

I fondly recall days spent trying to clear Super Mario Bros. and playing 2 player mode with my dad often! We'd take turns playing as Mario & Luigi and always had great fun. That's how games should be. Above all else, they should be fun!

So, what I intend to do on here is rather simple. I have a pretty decent collection of video games, and I am going to play them! Whatever I'm playing at a certain time, I'll write a personal insight to it. Maybe offer a few little tips, talk about soundtracks (I'm a big fan of the music associated with many of my favourite games!) and just generally have fun with this blog. Hopefully people will see it and enjoy it!

Gary