Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time

"Prince of Persia: Sands of Nostalgia"

Introduction

The original Prince of Persia could, have well defined 2D platform gaming. With its jump-packed, fast-paced and cutting Edge sword fighting style, Prince of Persia practically began the platforming genre. Although, from a game that could have made a good franchise, its sequels failed, to continue the legacy of the prince. But now, with cutting edge technology, can this franchise, finally get the game that it asked for?

Gameplay:

This is where the game really shines; I find this game to have one of the best gameplays in platform gaming. The Prince can be called a super circus-athlete for his combat and jumping abilities. The ability to run on and up walls is one of the most fun parts in the game, as well as his ability to hang on pipes/trees, which also make you more thirsty for the platforming fun this game has to offer. But the best catch this game has to offer is the ability to control time, because without it, this would just be a platforming game with little innovations. Controlling time has two sides, one for the platforming part, and the other for combat system. On the platform part, all you basically do with the sands of time, is rewind in order to get your life back, just in case you miss a jump. On the other hand, the Prince’s combat abilities are greatly enhanced by time control. Such as his abilities to slowing down time, and freezing some of your opponents, makes this already cool combat system even cooler. Adding even a small dose of strategy, whenever you’re fighting multiple enemies at a time.

Graphics:

The graphics in this game are just amazing. The characters have such a human flow and the enemies probably would have moved the same way they do in the game, had they existed in real life. The shadows of the characters are also something spectacular, but the most beautiful thing in this new version of Prince of Persia is the scenery. The level of detail is extremely deep, even as you are interacting with certain objects within the game. Running into the curtains, just to see them elegantly move in their life-like grace, dropping onto the ledges, watching the stones crumble from beneath your hand, and hanging onto the poles, as they look like they are about to break. The mosaics of the palace and the gardens are well represented, thus reproducing real life mosaics with their extraordinary detail. With that being said, we have one of the best looking games of this new generation. Sands of Time has life-like graphics at some points, given the excellent use of the PS2’s graphic card

Sound:

There isn't much to say about the sound, the game has great music, and the narrator's voice will keep you turned to the game the whole time. While the Prince is fighting, the sound effects are also something to be noted, since the engaging music, and the sound of your dagger destroying the enemies appearing before you blend in perfectly with each other, creating a perfect harmony.

Conclusion:

As you may see, Prince of Persia: Sands of Time, is a game that makes it all worthy to regain the nostalgic feeling of the first game. If you were a fan of the original game, or if you’re just a fan of platforming game, you will enjoy this game greatly. For this game distributes its qualities in all areas, handing you a game with splendorous graphics, innovative gameplay and an exciting storyline. The only problem is that this game may be a little short, but still, this game should not be missed by anyone.

Scores:
Graphics: 10/10
Gameplay: 10/10
Sound: 9/10
Length: 8/10
Fun Factor: 10/10

Overall Score: 10/10 (not an average)

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 12/12/03