Does Konami’s long-running Castlevania series of platformers finally get a 3D adaptation it deserves with Lords Of Shadow?
Here’s Alan’s PS3 review…
Konamis vampire hunting franchise is as restless as a blood-thirsty vampire.
It just keeps bouncing back for more.
This new installment is in 3D, which ought to set an alarm bell ringing.
RPG elements have been reduced to simple acquisition of experience points to spend on new moves.
Using these moves isnt just a case of remembering what to press.
Thats one aspect in which the game could be stronger.
The climax of the longer boss fights include some of the most enjoyable Quick Time Event takedowns weve encountered.
Do that and youll miss the on-screen prompts to press or tap buttons and deal a deathly blow.
One thing to be thankful for is the abandonment of a massive inventory.
The only way youll get through is to really get to grips with smart moves.
For the most part, the games level designs are superb.
Theyre divided into twelve chapters of differing length.
Yet you shouldnt equate that to a short main adventure.
Theres a harder setting, too, and another above it thats locked until later.
Breathtaking scenery illustrates Gabriels journey.
Theres plenty of new stuff here, too.
But you never feel trapped by these circumstances.
Its as true that Konami has simply not pieced them together so well before.
The reboot is the best thing to happen toCastlevaniasinceSymphony Of The Night.
Rating:
4 out of 5
