Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time

"One of the best game in years."

I had heard good things about Prince of Persia: The Sands Of Time. I had heard that it was a definite must-own. However, I did not go out straight away to buy it. Instead, I waited until January 31, 2004, to go out and get my copy of the game, because it came with Splinter Cell, another Ubi Soft game. What I have determined form playing through and beating this game, is that it is an amazing experience that should be played by everyone.

Graphics: As in all of my reviews, I will start with the graphics. To say that graphics are helpful in this kind of game is misleading. Graphics are ESSENTIAL in this kind of game. Without them, the game would fail. So, since the reader already knows that I like the game, they should already know that the graphics are very well done. Nothing spectacular, mind you, but well done. CG sequences are very well animated, as is the game as a whole. The characters do not look blocky, and the scenery in some places is simply breathtaking. On the other hand, some of the environments, such as in some parts of the palace, can be somewhat boring and average looking. However, the graphics are good enough for the player to get into the game. 7-10.

Sound: This is one of the few games that I have actually listened to the sound, mainly because the main character talks to himself throughout the game. The voices are very well done, yet can be barely audible at times. I have to turn up the volume on my TV whenever they start talking. The music in the game is also very well done, including the theme song, which is strangely melodic and entrancing. The sounds of swordfights and fighting is also very well done. Great. 8-10

Story: When your character finds a dagger and inserts it into a large hourglass, just about everyone around turn into zombies, and the palace changes. It is up to your character to undo what he has done. Along the way, he meets a mysterious girl and an evil Vizier (Jafar?). What I can tell you about the story is that it is great. The story even brings out a sense of pathos at times, which is very hard to find in a videogame. Tragedy, betrayal, drama, mystery, and adventure await anyone who plays this game. Perfect. 10-10

Gameplay: And now, the moment you've been waiting for. The gameplay review. You play a prince. I am not sure if he has a name. It is up to you to undo what you have done. To do this, you have the brave the obstacles of the palace by solving puzzles, swinging from branches and bars, running up and across walls, pushing blocks, doing timed tests, getting from point A to point B, and fighting enemies. At points, the heights that your character reaches are incredible. The real treat of this game are the puzzles, so if you are not a fan of these kind of games, don't bother. To help you along the way, you can use the dagger you have to stop and even rewind time. This means that if you make a fatal mistake, you can simply rewind to a point where you are safe and try again. It is an ingenious concept that is executed perfectly. This ability can also be used in fighting, for whenever you are killed. Speaking of fighting, it is not nearly as polished as the rest of the game. This does not mean that it is not fun. It's just that after a while, it can get repetitive and formulaic. You can only execute about six moves on your enemies, which can get boring. Also, it is hard to fight when there are ten of them closing in on you at the same time. Yet, this is a minor complaint, as it is only a portion of the game, and the rest of the game nearly reaches perfection. It is a little on the short side, but that hardly matters at all. Perfect. 9-10

Extras and Replay Value: If you accomplish a certain feat during the game, you can unlock the original Prince of Persia. Even though it is a pretty bad game, it is still a little fun if just for nostalgic purposes. You can also play the first level of the original in 3D, if you really want to. If those don't take to your liking, just play the main game again. It is still fun to play through again. 7-10

Pros:
+ Great sound
+ Good graphics
+ Excellent overall gameplay
+ Good replay value and extras

Cons:
- Unpolished fighting system
- A little too short

Buy or Rent: If you haven't been paying attention to my words when you have been reading this review, this section is for you. Buy this game. And, if it is still going on, take advantage of the special offer, where you get Splinter Cell for nothing. BUY THIS GAME!

Overall: This is a spectacular game. Enough said. And, from what I have heard, it hasn't been that great of a seller. For those debating whether to get this game, make your own decision, but also note all of the praise that this game is being given by critics. It's such an addictive and great experience. Everyone should find the opportunity to play it. Hasta luego!!

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 02/08/04