16-Jul-2004 Dry-as-a-bone humour brightens things up
while it doesn't come close to meeting Samurai Jack's personal code of excellence, there are a few glimmers of goodness in The Shadow Of Aku.
It seems the guys at Amaze at least had a laugh applying videogame lore to this grumpy Japanese warrior. He's fun to mess around, sporting some cool-enough fighting moves in general, aided by the neat Sakai ability that allows him to slow time Matrix-style.
Fans of SJ will appreciate the high production values at least in terms of voice acting by the original cast, with Jack's typically hilarious, solemn statements. The art is also faithful to the TV series, so exploring the environments and smirking at the dim bad guys is fun while it lasts.
It actually plays out like a very simplistic alternative to Legend Of Zelda, with doors opening once certain enemies are killed, or special keys found to open doors. Elsewhere, switches summon water to douse fires and open new pathways, or ropes can be cut to reveal a secret entrance. You get the idea.
Although we don't recommend you rush out and buy Shadow Of Aku, even if you're the biggest fan in the world, it's not a complete waste of time. Rent it for a weekend and you won't be sorry.
Like just about every contestant who has ever set foot in the Big Brother house, all the units in Ground Control II come with an alter ego. But while only the arrival of mystery housemate Mr B Laden could liven up proceedings on Channel 4's yawnathon, the secondary functions of GC II's units sex things up a bit with distinct advantages and disadvantages.
Viron units have secondary functions plus Meld with other units to make better ones too. Takes time, though
Fortresses’ twin gun turrets rock! Alt mode is slower but side armour slides out for grunts to hide behind
Artillery is slow but lobs explosive shells miles. Its Siege Mode fires four times but is easy to flank
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