Heavenly Sword

"A wonder that begs for appreciation."

It's hard, these days, to just pick up a game and start enjoying it. Maybe because games are becoming more and more expensive in each passing generation. Or, maybe, it's just too confusing which game to pick, from a growing library of good, enticing games, that will give you an experience different from the past 10 years.

Heavenly Sword is a game of epic movie proportions. The face animations and facial expressions are down right magnificent. You could feel, just by looking at the way the main heroine delivers her lines, the emotions wafting in the scene. However, the graphics are not without a flaw. Some areas are lavish in detail, some are somewhat rushed and almost paper-like -- losing some of the depth the game is trying to deliver.

Sound in Heavenly Sword is on par with the environments you're going to visit. From the clanking of steel in a roman-inspired fort to the almost sunset-sweet oriental musical score. The voice acting is truly outstanding. Nariko's voice has this strong, domineering accent. Her side-kick can knock you off your feet with her innocent lines and funny gestures. Your sword gives of different sound effects every time. Use it as ranged weapon and you'll hear convincingly real-life chain sound effects. Use it as a powerful heavy weapon and expect to be dazzled by a heavy-axe bolstering the ground.

The story in Heavenly Sword also doesn't disappoint. In fact, in this short tale, every scene is packed with intense story-telling. Often times,you'd get entwined with Nariko's quest for redemption and vengeance. And at other times, you'd find yourself intrigued by the comedic exchange of lines by the main antagonists in this game. The production values of this game surely shines the brightest in this aspect.

Gameplay sometimes feel borrowed. If the timed button presses is included in your enjoyment list, then this game won't let you down. However, do not expect to have an experience similar to other released games that used this gimmick. Instead, enjoy the game divided into chapters using the Heavenly Sword capable of switching into different forms, and the opportunity to play as your side-kick along the way. The only thing that pulls this game down a notch is it's length. That said, the game simply draws you into it's core that you might simply ignore this weakness.

Although the game may be short, it surely captured that movie feel type of masterpiece game developers have been trying to perfect over the years. And even though the game can not be called flawless, given enough appreciation, this is truly one magnificent, action packed joy-ride that is very much close to perfection.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 04/11/08

Game Release: Heavenly Sword (US, 09/12/07)