Monster in My Pocket

Monster in My Pocket

Back in the nineties we were huge fans of the Monster in My Pocket franchise, so the opportunity to see the mini monsters come to life on our screens was awesome. However, after looking past the nostalgia, it is clear to see that Konami was probably expecting a little too much from the N.E.S hardware, which resulted in plenty of sprite flickering and slowdown when things got too intense. Still, this is an enjoyable title with a wide range of enemies and completing it is not as frustrating as some other N.E.S era games. It is a little short and has its fair share of frustrating moments, but overall it is decent.

Gameplay: Fairly straightforward platforming and monster bashing that can be done with a friend.

Graphics: The monsters all look great, but some of the later levels are a little generic and sprite flicker as well as slowdown is a big issue.

Sound: Nothing exceptional, but the tunes are good and fit the style of the game

Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater

Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater

While the game can be quite frustrating at times and there is still an over-abundance of cut-scenes, it also packs a great story and some gripping gameplay. It can also be very cheesy but that is to be expected for a Metal Gear Solid game. It requires patience but it is definitely worth it.

Gameplay: It takes a while to get used to all the changes but it is worth it.

Graphics: Very impressive.

Sound: Quality voice acting and fitting music

Smuggler’s Run

Smuggler’s Run

If you enjoy racing through bland environments in twitchy cars while your ears are assaulted by a never ending cacophony of bad voice acting and screeching sirens then Smuggler’s Run is the game for you. If not, stay far, far away.

Gameplay: Might have been fun once upon a time but not anymore.

Graphics: Bad even by PS2 standards.

Sound: Don’t inflict this on your ears

Street Fighter EX3

Street Fighter EX3

If you are a fan of the series you will enjoy this game as it is basically more of the same. The visuals have improved over the last game, but since this is for a brand new system I was expecting more. It is not really worth it for single player, but if you have a bunch of friends and want to engage in some tag team battles you might enjoy this.

Gameplay: Bar a few changes the gameplay feels the same as the last game.

Graphics: Improved over the last game, but not really cutting edge for the system.

Sound: It is good they kept the Japanese character voices, but the music is unremarkable

Klonoa: Door to Phantomile

Klonoa: Door to Phantomile

If you enjoy platform games, then Klonoa has a lot to offer. The 2.5D visuals sets the game apart from the 3D titles of the era and there are lots of extra stuff to see and do while playing.

Gameplay: Pretty straightforward platform fare.

Graphics: A bit pixelated, but bright and colorful.

Sound: Upbeat

Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots

Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots

Metal Gear Solid 4 has so many cool gameplay features that initially it might feel a bit overwhelming. Sneaking through battlefields, taking on bizarre enemies and bosses while unraveling the complex story is gripping stuff and will keep you hooked to the end. The cut-scenes drag on a bit, but that is to be expected from a MGS game. One of the “must have” titles for PS3.

Gameplay: Compelling, varied and a blast to play.

Graphics: Excellent attention to detail.

Sound: Excellent voice acting and music

Konami Krazy Racers

Konami Krazy Racers

While Nintendo seems content with rehashing all their old SNES titles at least Konami has tried something fresh here. Krazy Racers is a fun and frantic racers starring some of Konami’s best known characters. A must have title for Konami fans and racing fans alike.

Gameplay: Fun and addictive, but over a bit too soon.

Graphics: Cool characters and impressive levels.

Sound: Konami has yet to disappoint in this category