Parasite Eve

"From the creators of Final Fantasy VII..."

Introduction

My cousin from China introduced me to videogames since I was young. So, as of 1999, I still kept playing videogames until I was bored of them, which was impossible. So my friend referred me this video game called ''Parasite Eve'' while I was playing Final Fantasy VIII. So anyway, I listened to her and picked up the game for my trusty old PlayStation system. I immediately popped in the disc and what I found was a well-done CG introduction. I was amazed by the game when I started it, and decided until now to write up a review for it.

This game is basically Square-Enix's version of a horror game, and it's their first. So they incorporated RPG elements into it to give it some suspense, because this game is quite scary..The game is from the creators of Final Fantasy VII!

Storyline

This game takes place in New York City(the city I live in). You, Aya Brea(NYPD police officer) are with your boyfriend to go see a play in a theatre. You are kind of off to yourself, and your boyfriend tells you to calm down and relax for some fun. You agree and go in with him. During some time in the play, all hell breaks loose and you kick your boyfriend out to point your gun to the person who caused it. The story goes from here about how you are connected to this person.. Eve.. the only and only Eve, hence the title Parasite Eve.

Gameplay

Remember that you are a NYPD cop, so the obvious weapon you start out with is a pistol.

When I engaged my first battle, I was moving around the screen, evading attacks and fight back with my handy pistol. This is how the gameplay is everytime you run into it. It's quite good and unique. This is not a game where you can shoot your pistol anytime. The energy has to restore before it gives you a chance to shoot the target. It's quite amazing and strategic. As you progress through the game, you'll gain more health and bonuses just like you do in any RPG. Leveling up is the key.

However, the thing is that Aya might run a little slow at times and get hit, so being quick is another key to survival.

Graphics, Sound/Music

When you say graphics, you mean how well the characters are detailed, how the backgrounds are rendered, and how clear you can see them. Well, in this game, it's quite superb for a PlayStation game. Good graphics are welcome anytime, but gameplay wins over it. However, the graphics in this game are so good that it gives a true cinematic experience. Also, the CG movies are well-done. When you say super-quality CGs, you are talking about Square-Enix who is the only company to ever bring you this type of visual programming. The backgrounds and character models are well detailed and certainly pushes the PlayStation to its near limits.

The sound is quite good as well. Although there is no voice acting, the fantastic music makes up for it. All the music you will be hearing will range from terrifying, emotional, and other kinds. Think of some of the music from Final Fantasy VII with major tweaks here and there, considering the fact that it is done by the same development team.

Controls/Camera

The controls in this game are as the same as any other role playing game. The real challenge comes from the battle system. As said before, you need to dodge enemy attacks and counter in any way possible.

Is this game hard..?

Not really. It's just like any other RPG. Die a lot, level up more until it's easy. So you should take your time preparing for every battle, because as the game progresses further, the enemies get tougher. You'll eventually get more weapons as you come through.. so use them wisely, as the ammo is very limited.

Replay Value

This game takes about 6-20 hours on your first time through, in which the game spans two discs. Of course that will depend on which tools and skills you'd be using while you play through. Once you are done with the game, there is more to deal with. So, yeah the replay value is quite long if you really put the time into it. It should last you over 100 hours at the maximum(which is what I've spent with it anyway). You've got the game, extra Chrysler building game, weapons, and sidequests to go through.

Pros:
+ Great graphics!
+ Great sound/music!
+ Great battle system!
+ Good story!
+ Easy-to-use controls!
+ Much replay value!

So yeah, there's virtually no flaws with this game because it's that good(at least in my opinion).

This game might be rare now to find, but if you DO find a copy, PICK it up right away!! It can't be any more expensive than $20 USD, I guarantee you that! Parasite Eve is a must get for any PlayStation owner!

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 01/17/04