Otogi: Myth of Demons

"An amazing romp in a mindblowing midevil japanese countryside."

Wow. I mean just ****ing wow. This game is just great. The action the atmosphere the graphics the music everything... Its a must have for everyone. That being said, lets get this review started.

----Graphics
10/10
The graphics in otogi are some of the most beautiful and realistic ive ever seen. The first level in the game has you killing bird demons in a foggy bambo forrest. The trees drop leaves, the fog turns and flows, the candles flicker and sizzle. It throws you right into the games lush atmosphere.
----Gameplay
9/10
Otogi's combat is a cross between shinobi and gunvalkrie. Your moves are limited to 3 types of attacking and 4 move combos but this does not hinder it at all. It is possible to play most levels without touching the ground all the while slashing left and right slaying demons all the while but its not nessicary (good news for some of you who loved gunvalkrie but thought the boost system was really difficult.)All of the levels are very distructable. Youll be smashing demons into stone walls making huge chunks smash into any pour sap below, hurling beasts into pillars making them crumble into dust, sending winged freaks smashing to the ground making craters. My only complaint about the game (and why i didnt give it a perfect 10 on gameplay) is the game will be very challenging for anyone who isnt well prepared. A few levels will kill you unless your good player. The games difficulty ranges from low normal to very hard in some parts. Not nearly as difficult as Shinobi though.
----Music
10/10
The music is a plethora of asian instrumental tunes all of which are great. Some are slow and relaxing. Others are haunting and faster getting you in the mood for a demon slaughter. All of which are very enjoyable just to listen to. (I recorded a few myself.) The soundtrack pulls you into the game right away. The sound effects are good though nothing really amazing. When a gigantic birdman with a spear hits a cliff wall it sounds like a gigantic birdman with a spear hitting a cliff wall.
----Control and Camera
9/10 and 8/10
The controls may feel a little strange at first but once you adapt to it youll find them flawless. Some compair them to gunvalkrie but i just dont see it. The camera is very responsive, but during a boss fight it sometimes seems to always be at the wrong angle.

---Review
Overall, id recomend otogi to nearly anyone. This game is art. Pure and simple. If you own an xbox and you dont own this game, then you are seriously missing out.
Rent or buy?
If it isnt obvious allready, BUY. BUY THIS GAME! you will not regret it.

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 09/03/03