Persona 5 Review
June 06, 2017
In Persona 5 you’re the new kid at Shujin Academy in Tokyo, Japan. You got kicked out of your old school and rumors quickly spread at Shujin about how awful you are. While doing your best to keep your head down and not get expelled, you find common ground and make friends with other outcasts. Oh, and you accidentally discover this parallel realm called the metaverse where you awaken your Persona, which is a manifestation of your inner psyche a.k.a. the super cool version of yourself that can fight and do magic.
Persona 5 does a great job at making you feel like you’re back in high school again: there are pop quizzes that you won’t be ready for, there’s never enough time in a day, and everyone hates you. In high school I was a social butterfly, living by the mantra “be nice to everyone because you never know when you will need them.” In real life, If you’re nice to the lunch lady she may let you get away with an extra slice of pizza here and there. Make friends with the shy/quiet kids and when they become hall monitors you’ll have nothing to fear! Persona is all about forming relationships and it does a great job at rewarding you for making and maintaining friendships. When you form a bond with a person, he or she becomes your “confidant” and you gain abilities in and out of battle.
There are five social stats in Persona 5: Knowledge, Charm, Guts, Kindness, and Proficiency.
Helping a friend study for finals can raise your kindness, reading a book on the train can raise your knowledge, do risky hood rat things with your friends to raise your guts, etc.
I know I’m making this game sound like a high school simulator, and at some points on a basic level it is, but you also whip a lot of ass. A LOT of ass. The turn based battle system is very smooth and rewards you for experimenting, taking risks, and figuring out enemy weaknesses (which you will need to do if you want to stay alive). I won’t give away anything in terms of plot but here’s a quick breakdown of how I rank the game’s different areas:
GRAPHICS: 5/5 This game is stylish through and through. The menus are even fun to look at! Each dungeon has a unique look/feel and the art style is incredible
SOUND: 5/5 Every song on this game is memorable and sets the intended mood. From the cheery Sunday morning music to the creepy jailhouse music that plays when Igor is around…this soundtrack is flawless.
“Beneath The Mask” may just beat out Utada Hikaru’s “Simple & Clean” (Kingdom Hearts) for the number one spot on my favorite video game track list. And that’s not easy to do.
GAMEPLAY/CONTROLS: 4/5 Persona 5 does most things well; the only problem I have with the controls is the stealth mechanic. Sometimes moving in and out of cover when trying to avoid or ambush enemies can be awkward
STORY: 4/5 This game gets off to a pretty slow start; there’s a LOT of tutorials and exposition, but that’s forgivable because there is a lot to learn. But once the story gets rolling the momentum is great; I found myself becoming attached to my confidants more than I probably should be.
REPLAY VALUE: Very High. There’s so much to do in this game and you probably won’t be able to do it in one play through
OVERALL: 9.5/10 Definitely worth your 60 dollars. You could get 100 hours of fun out of this game easily. Go get it!
Star Wars: The Last Jedi Review
Star Wars: The Last Jedi - My Written, Non-Spoiler Review
TL;DR version at the bottom for those that don't read posts longer than 140 characters or, you know, books (kidding).
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So, let's get to it! I recently posted a brief, five minute long, on the spot review of Star Wars: The Last Jedi (TLJ) here on Facebook. However, I didn't cover as many areas of my thoughts on the film, as I was self conscious about the time, which made me rush to the point. Hence, this written review, which you will read at the expense of your own time because you love me. :D
In Episode VIII of the series, we are gifted with Director Rian Johnson's fresh installment in our beloved American Space Opera. Johnson is known for directing films like Looper, Brick, and The Brothers Bloom. While you might've read/watched a hefty amount of negative feedback to this film over the internet, right off the bat, I can tell you the biggest possible reason why:
Change.
Johnson takes a system that has run like a well-oiled engine (with a few concerning hiccups) for 40 years and does quite a bit of rewiring to propel the story of a new generation of The Force, forward. To do that in a way we haven't seen before, some change is required. After all, many of us complained that The Force Awakens (TFA) was just a "re-skin" of Episode IV: A New Hope -- More on that later.
The Plot:
Rey develops her newly discovered abilities with the guidance of Luke Skywalker, who is unsettled by the strength of her powers. Meanwhile, the Resistance prepares to do battle with the First Order. - IMDb
The three new lead characters Rey, Finn, and Poe, who were previously introduced in The Force Awakens (TFA), pick up right where they left off. They've already started on their unorthodox take on the hero's journey to become the new holy trinity of the Star Wars saga; It's clear from the very beginning that a galaxy-wide passing of the torch is happening. Our favorite legends are getting older, like their Masters and Mentors when we first saw them in their youth for Episodes IV - VI. You're definitely in for a Feels Trip if you've been following since the start.
I absolutely love this film! It is, by far, the most entertaining Star Wars entry from start to finish that I have seen since Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back (which this one admittedly holds similarities to - inbox me for details on that). So many important things happen throughout the course of its two hour, thirty-two minute run time that I feel it's only necessary to see it twice. For me, TLJ holds much of the passion, bravery, hope, heart, and action that was somewhat lacking in Episode VII, but ever present in last year's Rogue One... and that's made possible with the new direction taken here.
To that, I say, GO SEE THIS MOVIE!
Don't be swayed by the negative reviews on the internet. Personally, I feel like much (not all) of the criticism TLJ is facing is a lot of unnecessary nitpicking. Sure, I think we all wanted more backstory out of a few significant characters (the villains especially). Sure, there are parts within the second act of the film that dip and seemingly get off track due to plot holes. However, those minute problems don't hold a candle to the fresh work of art this movie is, from the light vs. dark themes, cinematography, classic score, writing, and the sweet justice done with both iconic and new characters through epic, jaw-dropping moments in the story.
It is nothing short of awesome to see Kylo Ren, Rey, and Luke in a moral tug of war as displayed in the trailer, although you won't see as many fast-paced light saber battles as you might've been hoping for. As established in the very last clip of the film, the Star Wars saga is truly evolving, and I'm excited for what's next to come (spin-offs included).
There's just so much I could talk about, but as promised, this has been your Spoiler-Free Review for the week!
I give Star Wars: The Last Jedi a well-earned 8/10 stars.
I highly recommend watching this beautiful movie in IMAX or any comparable large screen experience with a great sound system. I saw it at Cinemark Artegon here in Orlando, FL and my experience was amazing.
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TL;DR Version:
Star Wars: The Last Jedi = Greatness. GO SEE IT. Take your friends! Make sure you've watched all of the other films before this one. Thank me later, and watch out for those Spoiler Trolls on the net!
Hadnot, out! <3
Bright Review
December 28, 2017
Bright - A Brief (Spoiler-Free) Film Review
TL;DR version at the very bottom. I know, it's Friday night, and you don't feel like reading. I got you!
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Hi Guys! As you may know, the anticipated Netflix Original, starring Will Smith (Ward), Joel Edgerton (Jakoby), and Noomi Rapace (Leilah) was released today! I've had the pleasure of checking it out myself, and I must say... I am entertained.
From Writer/Director David Ayer, comes a brave blend of gritty buddy cop movie (much like his lauded End of Watch) and the multifaceted world of modern Fantasy. We're introduced to a problematic environment as soon as the opening credits fade in, with graffiti-ridden buildings that sport symbolized hatred. Segregated areas for Elven Aristocracy, closed off to the likes of Orcs and lower class Humans are represented by signs that explicitly say so.
It's clear that the subtext of this film communicates that ignorance perpetuates racism, which then perpetuates violence, which then causes the fire of hatred between all sides to propagate for generations to come.
So, what did I think of it?
Throughout the first Act, it took a bit for Bright to grow on me! Initially, the screenplay seemed a little bland, but as the story progressed, and I got to see an unlikely Brotherhood form in the field of battle (as almost all Cinematic Police and Soldier Dramas evolve), I found myself more emotionally invested in Ward and Jakoby's white-knuckle adventure.
Bright is a pretty simple film that tells a tale as old as time: Light vs. Dark. It comes packaged with explosive action, strong language, comedy, and just the right amount of emotion as two heroes in a corrupt police force protect a dangerous weapon that belongs to a dangerous foe.
It does, however, fall short in areas that leave much to be desired, such as: dialogue beyond surface-level between lead characters, a stronger inclination towards the guaranteed sequel (which makes this the first Netflix Original to ever get one, as the deal was signed before the first film's release), and a stronger finish. Each shot is carefully crafted and beautiful, but would've felt much more complete with the aforementioned missing pieces to complement them.
Much like Suicide Squad, Bright has a catchy soundtrack, which you can find by searching for it on Spotify (all which seems to have been User curated). Speaking of that film, you're guaranteed to notice some familiar faces here.
It'll be no surprise if, like Suicide Squad, this film wins an award for "Makeup & Hairstyling." The Orcs and Elves are done so well that my suspension of disbelief was left uninterrupted. A $90 mi budget makes this the most expensive Netflix Original to date.
While it could have been better in some areas, Bright is a bold risk to double down on with a predetermined sequel. However, I'm excited for what's next in this David Ayer & Max Landis' Fantasy world if it means we get more of Ward & Jakoby's comically reluctant friendship.
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My Overall Score: 6.5/10
- A simple, but attention-grabbing, creative tale that blends the worlds of gritty police drama and modern fantasy
- Great cinematography, frame for frame, and makeup/character design
- Specifically, the dialogue falls noticeably flat in some areas where more is expected
- I personally feel that a story like Bright would work better as a 10 Episode Series, but I trust the format they have as-is. Usually, you don't want to rush tales like this, and you don't really have much of a choice but to in a 2 hour run time.
That being said... Watch it! Give it a try this weekend, and let me know what you think in the comments below!
- Hadnot, out! <3
Octopath Traveler Review
Since purchasing the Nintendo switch I have been waiting for a proper RPG I can play on the go. One that would grab my attention such as Chrono Trigger and Final Fantasy VI did in my younger days. And I can without a doubt say Octopath Traveler is that game for me. Octopath Traveler is the latest turn based RPG from Square Enix and Acquire.
Octopath Traveler takes place in the land of Orsterra, with a choice of eight different characters to choose from. The eight characters consist of a Warrior, Scholar, Hunter, Apothecary, Cleric, Dancer, Thief and Merchant. Whichever character you choose first will your main party member who will always remain in your party. Upon choosing your character the game will plunge into the backstory of that character. Each character’s story is broken down into chapters that it gives you map as to which story you would like to progress. I personally thought this was a great idea seeing there were certain characters didn’t catch my interest immediately. The game gives you ample time for you to explore the world before furthering the story with eight characters. Which is a very smart move in my opinion because I truly believe this a game you don’t want to rush through, it’s too fascinating.
Overall Octopath Traveler is great RPG, one that I have been waiting for to come to the Nintendo Switch since my purchase of the system. The battle mechanics are solid, the art and world immersive and stories majorly captivating. If you’re looking for a great turn based RPG definitely pick up Octopath Traveler!
Anthem Review
Before playing Anthem, I had already heard the negative feedback from the beta: long load times, weak servers, and more bugs than the internet was willing to forgive. I let the internet’s opinion affect me slightly; I started this game with the lowest of expectations. Why would I still pay for a game even though I think there’s a big chance it could suck? I would like to say that I did it for the gaming culture; that my responsibilities as a gamer and journalist far outweigh my frugality. The truth is, I really want to be Robert Downey Jr so bad that I would never forgive myself if I wasn’t the first of my friends to play the new Iron Man game.
Just like how Iron Man has his Hulk Buster suit for when he needs to be able to take an ass whoopin’, in Anthem there are four different suits to choose from. One for long range magic users who like to float above the battlefield and use the elements to set enemies up for combos, one big tank who can take abuse for days while drawing aggro, one blindingly fast melee character, and an all-around suit that neither masters nor lacks in anything.
One of the coolest parts of this game is the customization of the suit. The textures and colors are beautiful, and every special ability looks and feels very polished. Just like with Destiny, you upgrade parts of your suit to raise your overall power level. Your suit starts off pretty trash at first, but once you level up a bit the combinations of abilities and weapons become very fun to experiment with. Some suits set up perfect combos for others, so it’s worth working as a team to take down tough enemies.
My favorite thing about Anthem is the flying mechanics. Zipping through this colorful world at top speed is so relaxing. The only time the game drags is when you step out of the suit. To make new missions available, you have to go around town and talk to people (over and over and over) and it gets old fast. Going from nose diving off of waterfalls in a mech…to hobbling your slow ass across town to talk to a tavern owner is a very clunky and awkward transition. Trudging around town is mind numbingly slow. Then there are the load times. Every loading screen is longer than the last fifteen minutes of work on a Friday.
GRAPHICS: 5/5 No complaints here!
SOUND: 4/5 Voice acting is great. Sound effects are nice, but a lot of the music is generic and forgettable
GAMEPLAY/CONTROLS: 3/5 Most things work well (Flying/combat), but those loading screens and out-of-suit- portions drag
STORY: 3/5 The story is not bad, and there’s lore there for those who care to look for it. But you could skip every cutscene and still be ok
REPLAY VALUE: High. You’ll want to grind to upgrade that suit
OVERALL: 7.8 It’s not nearly as bad as everyone says it is. Sure, there are bugs here and there, but none that make the game unplayable. The loading screens are long, but flying through the sky like Ironman feels worth it. It’s not the kind of game you want to play alone though. If none of your friends have it, wait for a flash sale or something.
