Deja Vu I and II

"A fun, challenging, mind-bending game (when you aren't cheating of course)."

Deja Vu:

From the minute you turn on your GBC and hear the great '30's MIDI music, you know this game is a truly unique gem.

Deja Vu was originally designed for the Macintosh computer system *cringes*. I almost didn't believe it when I heard it because I like this game, and don't really like anything Mac. The game includes both the original Deja Vu, and the Deja Vu sequel, Deja Vu II.

You start out in Deja Vu not knowing where you are or who you are. This aspect of mystery makes for a very compelling beginning. You find yourself wanting to know more and more and more even when you are frusterated, stuck, and ready to cheat (don't do it!!!!).

Anyways, down to the details.

Storyline:

The storyline often makes or breaks a game, and in most games, tends to be the most important element. The storyline in Deja Vu is right out of a detective movie, except a little better, and with less sex (good for all ages). The game pieces itself together as it goes along and has no loose ends. If you aren't real quick with detective thinking, however, the storyline won't be AS GOOD. It'll still make general sense, and still be a great game.

Rating:9/10.

Graphics:

The funny thing about this game is that it as virtually no animation except for a little hand, and the sidewalk whizzing by as you ride in a taxi. This is an old-style RPG, and Deja Vu has it down pat. Since this is designed to be an old-style RPG, I will rate the drawings, not the animation (which is almost non-existant). The drawings are well done and full of character and realistic colour. Everything looks very realistic, and true to the day...for the most part. The thing I noticed is that this game is supposed to be set in 1939, yet they have Volkswagon Beetles as their taxies. The Beetles never made it over to Chicago until the late fifties, but I'm sure we can forgive their little error.

Rating:9/10

Gameplay: The gameplay is simple, but let's the game remain challenging. A tough task to complete, but it has been done here. Simple commands to do many things. Rarely confusing.

Rating: 9.5/10

Sound:It's only MIDI, but it's old, and the tunes are fabulous hits. Crystal clear.

Rating:9/10

Replay Value:

This is where the game begins to faulter a little. There are NO sidequests, and really only 1 way to beat the game. There are two cases, which is a good thing, but really the replay value isn't there. I've beaten Case One 3 times, and Case Two Twice, and going to be a third time soon. I've had the game for 2 years, and each time I lay it gets easier. It's VERY easy to beat after the first time you play it. But still enojyable for the story. This is the ONLY weakness of the game. Still a good one to buy though.

Rating:4/10

Hope you liked.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 08/07/02, Updated 08/07/02