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Scurge: Hive

Graphics - 7/10

Great, beutiful sprites and enviornments...for the GBA. Yeah, I know the game was made for both portable systems, but on that face so much potential was lost by making this a simple port. By the way, ignore ign. They gave the DS version a 6/10 while the GBA got a 7/10, because they say the graphics are "worse" on the DS. Now I may be smoking something, but obviously the graphics are the freaking same. The DS might even have crisper visuals. The animations are very good (besides the main character, Jenosa Arma, her stand still animation is creepy) the enemies have their own life as they relentlessly chase you. Though there are some minor recolor problems they aren't anything serious. In the graphics bracket, DS Vs. GBA, the DS wins - having a better resolution and a little bit crisper visuals. Funny to say, the 2d in this game is better then others that I've seen on the DS and its basically for the GBA. It's main problem is that it is slightly pixelated.

Nack

Music - 7/10

Genaric upbeat techno music. It isn't bad, it's actually pretty good. Just to me it doesn't fit the entire atmosphere - only the "HOLY CRAP GOTTA HURRY PART!". I think the sound effects are spot on, near movie quality and that is a great plus. In the sound bracket, DS VS. GBA, the DS wins because of stereo sound. It's not that big of a deal but it is noticeable.

Nack

Story - 6/10

Passable story that just explains each weapon and why you're here on the station alone. Basically. you're a Bounty Hunter who has been hired to control an alien investation in a reserch HQ. (This is usually where the metriod comparisons takes place). You came to help the scientists - they needed help controling the Scurge, parsitic aliens that take over oraganisms. When you arrive you find that the reaserch facility is convienently taken over by these aliens. Now you have to kick some alien trash, basically. Along the way they will be virtual logs that explains the stations situation. Though really you'll push the story away as its only just enough to get by.

Nack

Gameplay - 8/10

Your basic run-and-gun experience. Or is it? You take an isometric view for this adventure. Though it makes the platforming a little clunky, it enhances what would be just your everyday 2D shooter (homage to everyday shooter there). It doesn't make the best of the system but it creates a grea atmospere with its style. Erm, but this isn't the graphics section. There is a diverse amount of enemys, unfortunately most of these are recolors. Enemies make this cool and slightly annoying splat when they die. They also leave little green balls that refill your energy and give you a little exp points. Too bad the level cap is 68. Each enemy has a different weakness, based on one of your guns. It gives the game a little bit of an edge, a little strategy. One of the game's strongest points are the massive bosses. They are very challenging, but feel very rewarding. Powerups and advancements are found throught the levels - very much like metroid. The gameplay is very rewarding, go on youtube and check out some vids of it.

Nack

Lasting Appeal - 5/10

The game is good obviously and lasts a good amount of time for a portable game - about 11 hours. Unfortunately after the adventure there isn't much to do. You can beat the came in a harder difficulty and unlock some pointless extras but unless you completely love this game it gets boring the second time. No to mention the harder difficulties aren't much harder.

Nack