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- PS2
Simple in its concept, glamorous in its appearance and addictive in its game play – Genji stacks up against some of the best arcade style beat-’em-ups getting around.
The graphics for this title are touted as being inspired by the likes of ‘Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon’ and ‘Hero’ and while it doesn’t quite live up to such enormous claims, it is one of the more aesthetically pleasing action adventure games that I’ve played in a long time. It certainly makes you appreciated how far we’ve come since the days of Double Dragon. The cut scenes are spectacular visual achievements, although do not add much to the game when you get down to it. The gameplay sequences are not as amazing, but are nonetheless impressive, even if somewhat linear.
You play, originally, as Genji. A samurai warrior who is ignorant of the power that he wields. The destruction of his village sets the tone for his quest for vengeance against his mighty foe – an army who control the power of the amahagane; a strange force which allows you to slow the actions of others and essentially see seconds into the future. Genji goes on to develop his connection with the amahagane – and you must take advanatge of its power in order to complete your quest.
Along the way you meet a humble, but enormous monk, Benki. Benki will stand by you to the end, unless you choose to play as Benki… in which case Genji will stand by him to the end… Along your journey you can find or order all kinds of weapons with various enchantments, your usual array of potions, elixirs and accessories and an assortment of armour which will suit either Benki or Genji, but not both.
Gameplay is simple and borders on being overly repetitive, but find me an action game that isn’t. It’s no so repetitive that it’s boring though… more, addictive. I’ve completed the game 4 times thus far (you can complete the game, then begin again with your existing inventory and power – nice). The sound is loads of fun… all kinds of grunts and expressions, none of which I could understand. I can see a sequel somewhere in the future.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5
