Daxter

"Stable platformer that works very well on the PSP format"

Instead of a previous Jak game being re-released to convert the series to PSP format, the decision was made to produce a whole new spin-off title for Sony's new handheld console. For the first time in the series, Daxter - commonly the driving force between much of the series' charm - takes the lead role.

The game takes place before Jak 2 in the timeline and plays out the events that led up to Daxter saving Jak from prison. Unlike some previous titles, the storyline in "Daxter" isn't particularly deep, nor are the missions particularly complex. This is just a simple platformer, that provides good solid enjoyment and enough rewards to strive for on the whole. If anything, Daxter should be likened to the original game in the series - J&D: The Precursor Legacy. Simple combat with some stunning platforming challenges in superb environments.

Effectively, there are very few moves. Jumping and crawling are the only two non-combat actions that ever come into play. As far as battling enemies goes, there are essentially two weapons - a fly swat and a spray gun. The fly swat acts similarly to the wrench in the Ratchet and Clank series; not the weapon of choice, but handy in certain situations. Although at the beginning of the game, the swat must actually be entirely relied upon. It's not until playing through a few levels that you receive the first gun.

However, the spray gun is not just for shooting. Whilst partially used for "poisoning" enemies, its key use really comes with a rather unique element to the gameplay. Whenever Daxter jumps, he can fire his gun towards the ground and hover himself. It almost acts as a jetpack. Much of the jumping in the game requires this hovering motion and whilst it can be slightly irritating at first, it's fine once you get the hang of controlling it and becomes one of the major standout features in the title.

In addition to this basic gameplay, there are a few more innovative sections, involving sliding, chasing and driving the ever popular "zoomers" that appeared in the rest of the game. Yet it's actually the series of mini-games that stands out most of all. Known as "dream levels", they are unlocked for play after collecting enough precursor orbs (the egg-shaped collectables that have appeared in levels throughout the series). Each dream level is about hitting the correct buttons as they appear on the screen, in order to fight off some form of enemy. In each of these, Daxter assumes a different character. There is a matrix-esque level, a Braveheart level, an Indiana Jones level and several more. Whilst one is not greatly different from another, they all provide some good "pick-up-and-play" fun.

On the whole, there are very few aspects of this game that aren't appealing. Some may find it too short, whilst others may find it too easy, but either way it maintains some quality as a strong platforming title and definitely one of the best games available on PSP.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 04/21/06