Offical Heavenly Sword Thread (Current GStat av score = 8.0)

[Dark Slayer120]

It's happened to me a lot...even happened today when I played it. Plus there are way too many loading spots...I'm enduring it somehow though :-P

Oh okay, it has done that to me just not that often. It helps if you installed it onto your hard drive. I know what you're saying though because I still get some random stop and go's as well. Anyway nice HS videos still looks great to me and so far is day one for me as well. ;)

[getmyrunon]

Demo was a lot better than I expected. Might get this for cheap to satisfy my desire for some intelligent button mashing.

[doubledown]

I finally got a chance to play the demo....I thought it was OK. Button Mashers are good at times, but sometimes they can just be too repetitive. Anyways, visually it looked nice, gameplay was decent (except NO jump was odd).

[NamPaehc]

Interview with game writer. (http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/30/joystiq-interviews-heavenly-swords-rhianna-pratchett/)

[dallow]

Damn, I played again last night.
I like it so much better now!

Getting the hang of air combos, dodging, countering.
Fights are getting a huge boost in the 'fun meter'.

[Serpentor]

lucky you... i still can't do the air combos, but it's not really a biggie for me. i like the characters and scenaries, can't wait to see what's behind the big gate (in addition to those samurai looking dudes charging toward you).

[Apossum]

I kinda like how there's no jump button. it makes the fights more intense. If I have ten guys coming at me and I can just jump over them, that isn't as gratifying as taking on ten guys head to head :)

[Draekon]

One of the Power Stance counters made me cringe. Damn that was a loud "CRACK!" when she kicked him square in the nuts with a hell of a lot of force.

[Inf^Shini]

I was trippin' out on how she just picks up guys like and chucks em' like nothing :lol:

[alongx]

I played all two minutes of the demo, which didn't impress in the slightest. Hopefully the final game is much better, because this was all shine and no substance/

[Vanigan]

Alongx, not sure how you got no substance out of this. Can you let us know which games you consider having substance?

Just from the demo, I found this fighting system to have as much substance as Devil May Cry and God of War, which are actually the two main series in the same genre.

[Rei no Otaku]

Just from the demo, I found this fighting system to have as much substance as Devil May Cry
Lets not go crazy!

[whoknows]

Alongx, not sure how you got no substance out of this. Can you let us know which games you consider having substance?

Just from the demo, I found this fighting system to have as much substance as Devil May Cry and God of War, which are actually the two main series in the same genre.
DMC? No way.

GoW? For sure. That game has almost no substance combat-wise.

[Vanigan]

I stand by my statement. DMC is the epitome of flashy presentation and twitch reaction in the fighting system. That's a good thing though, but still doesn't mean depth.

[Zoglog]

not enough demo to judge the game on. There are some definite technical and framerate issues though that hinder the great animation.
but then again it is just a demo.

[NamPaehc]

not enough demo to judge the game on. There are some definite technical and framerate issues though that hinder the great animation.
but then again it is just a demo.

The framerate issues, those are because the demo is from year old build of the game.

Anyway, for me, the demo + all of the recent videos out there of the extended demos have me believing this really will be fun.

[Zoglog]

The framerate issues, those are because the demo is from year old build of the game.

Anyway, for me, the demo + all of the recent videos out there of the extended demos have me believing this really will be fun.

the funny part about that is that the 2 year old E3 Demo ran smoother for me ;)

[DarkNessBear]

the funny part about that is that the 2 year old E3 Demo ran smoother for me ;)

Eh, it was one room so it was harder to judge.

But I felt like the After Touch was alot better/smoother in the E306 Demo.

Hmm, I know the blocking was weird in the demo, but I believe the combat was a little more fluid? hard to remeber.

[Dark Slayer120]

Alongx, not sure how you got no substance out of this. Can you let us know which games you consider having substance?

Just from the demo, I found this fighting system to have as much substance as God of War, which is actually the main series in the same genre.

Fixed.

[whoknows]

Not to surprise anyone, but Itagaki said shit about the game in the most recent issue of EGM. :lol:

[Dark Slayer120]

Not to surprise anyone, but Itagaki said shit about the game in the most recent issue of EGM. :lol:

:rofl:

[Rei no Otaku]

Not to surprise anyone, but Itagaki said shit about the game in the most recent issue of EGM. :lol:
Nariko's boobs aren't big enough?

[NamPaehc]

This is up on the PS blog talking about the "exclusive video" for G.A.P. (http://blog.us.playstation.com/2007/08/09/heavenly-sword-prequel/)

Heavenly Sword marketing guy here. Usually I just watch this blog from the sidelines and let our production teams talk (because lets face it, you guys don’t want to hear our marketing mumbo-jumbo) … but our blog team asked me to elaborate on the recent Heavenly Sword videos we just released, so here it is. Hopefully without all the marketing buzz words.

This week’s release of the Heavenly Sword animation prequel and the “Making of” series marks the start of a five-week video campaign that leads into the game’s release. The plan was to provide an exclusive peek to our GAP members on Mondays, then release publicly on Thursdays via the PLAYSTATION Store and on HeavenlySword.com. But this thing called the “World-Wide-Web,” is an amazing animal that doesn’t do too well with keeping things um, secret. So as soon as it hit our “exclusive group,” it basically spread everywhere (not necessarily a bad thing). The good news is, despite the early release, the benefit of downloading the video on your PS3 is that you can watch it in full HD glory on your HD television screen [cue angelic chorus].

As for the videos - the animation prequel gives you a glimpse of the Heavenly Sword pre-history up until the start of the game (admittedly we took a page out of “Clone Wars”, because that series kicked a$$). This “making of” series highlights the team’s efforts to bring you Heavenly Sword, focusing on different elements of production. I know many of you can’t wait to play the game (…something about the demo being too short…), but hopefully these will be enough to keep you waiting until September 12.

[dallow]

Not to surprise anyone, but Itagaki said shit about the game in the most recent issue of EGM. :lol:Said shit as in said nothing? Or, what did he say?

Always like his comments.

[chodax]

demo is so short :(

[Cyb3-rr]

demo is so short :(

Hey thanks! Since no one has commented on the length of the demo before, I'm glad we cleared that up!

[whoknows]

Hey thanks! Since no one has commented on the length of the demo before, I'm glad we cleared that up!
I thought it was too long actually.

Right when you go over to the rope and push X the demo should have ended.

[Inf^Shini]

I thought it was too long actually.

Right when you go over to the rope and push X the demo should have ended.

LIES! ALL LIES!

Intro video and menu is a good length, nuff said >:O!

[bo0]

Definitely a must buy/rent

[Sn0brawler]

I'm impressed. The game looks gorgeous, the combat is fun and it took me 3 plays through the demo to feel really comfortable, which makes me feel like the game has depth.

The only concerns I have about the game are that it may either be too short or have too many repetitive situations. I really hope it strikes the right balance in between and pulls you right through the game.

[dallow]

Hehe, Play magazine gave the game a 10/10.

Then again, it's Play.

[harunim]

Amazing game play. Definite pick up on day 1.
But Nariko or whatever her name is too damn ugly..??

[Vanigan]

I think she looks great, more realistic looking woman than in most games.

[seanr1221]

I too think she looks great.

[w1r3d]

i think she's the best/most badass female character in the genre so far.

that making of video really got me pumped. can't wait!


oh, and even though her psycho friend looks kinda... psycho, she's looking pretty badass too after seeing that vid =)

[Dark Slayer120]

I too think she looks great.

Quiet Mclovin. ;)

[Vinny]

I guess this must be why the PSN is so damn slow... it's been on for 4 hours now and it's only like 80% done. Can't be our network because that's working fine and fast.

[dallow]

I guess this must be why the PSN is so damn slow... it's been on for 4 hours now and it's only like 80% done. Can't be our network because that's working fine and fast.PSN store seem so to be very YMMV as I got this on the day it came out in 30 mins with the shittiest DSL service.

[NamPaehc]

This game BETTER do well for them. They have spent a long time and money trying to make this a great game.

I'm eatting up every little bit they release but I don't think it is enough yet to get huge amounts of folks interested.

[NamPaehc]

Some early reviews, plus a small segment of each. Careful, they contain a few spoilers. May be a few more up soon too so keep eye out.

Review 1 ThreeSpeech (http://threespeech.com/blog/?p=536)

Heavenly Sword is amazing to behold, seriously addictive, pleasingly original, in that it manages not to feel like any other game you’ve played, demonstrates incredible attention to detail and, in general, is everything we hoped we’d find in a PS3 game. You could say that it’s about time, too – but once you get hold of a copy, you’ll agree that it was worth the wait.
Review 2 GeekPulp (part 1 of 2) (http://www.geekpulp.co.nz/2007/08/12/heavenly-sword-review-part-1-ps3/)


The controls are simple, yet the timing and use of the appropriate combination will see you making head way into the swarms of enemies. If you don’t watch what your enemies are doing and try and mash your way through you will die a most miserable death.

[heavyd853]

Waiting till septembers going to be hard now -_- (I just bought a ps3)

[Dark Slayer120]

We really need some more great games for PS3, and I really hope this one does not disappoint. I liked the demo I played through it like 10 times, so I think I'll enjoy the game. I just hope it isn't short, as I want a Ninja Gaiden length for action games.

[Vanigan]

I'd be fine with this game if it was only 10-15 hours--maybe even less--so long as the gameplay experience was very well crafted.

As above, I've played the demo over 15 times now and each time is fun. If I can get that much enjoyment out of thrashing two scenes full of cannon fodder, the full game with more varied enemies, boss fights, and full storyline will hold me over for a while.

[ighosty]

think this game is going to be good, but without any kind of multiplayer I can't see myself buying it, maybe if it was like 20 next year sometime. Its on the top of my gamefly for september, and then when they come out with DLC i might rent it again.

[Vanigan]

I think if you're looking for multiplayer games, you should probably look somewhere else. Although they're starting to add co-op to these kind of games, you likely won't see adversarial multiplayer in this genre.

The core aspects of the gameplay just don't work in versus MP, you'd have to strip out a lot of the more fun timing aspects and end up something like Iron Pheonix.

[Apossum]

the day they start doing online multiplayer deathmatches for action games is the day I quit gaming. keep that shit in the FPS genre.

[The Mana Knight]

the day they start doing online multiplayer deathmatches for action games is the day I quit gaming. keep that shit in the FPS genre.QFT.

From what I heard, the single player is around 8-12 hours, I think. That's not too bad, because most action games are on the shorter side. I don't really care, as long as it was very enjoyable (like I beat Zone of the Enders in just over 4 hours, but it was one of the most memorable experiences ever).

[ighosty]

I think if you're looking for multiplayer games, you should probably look somewhere else. Although they're starting to add co-op to these kind of games, you likely won't see adversarial multiplayer in this genre.

The core aspects of the gameplay just don't work in versus MP, you'd have to strip out a lot of the more fun timing aspects and end up something like Iron Pheonix.

I wasn't saying that i think this game should have multiplayer, I was just stating that games without multiplayer are hard to buy since I always find myself trading them in eventually because you can only play through single player so many times. But when the price drops and DLC is added that may change.

[Vinny]

For a 1GB demo, I was disappointed that it lasted a whole 3 minutes. It was pretty fun demo though- the only things that bothered me were the physics glitches (dead bodies bounced) and it was too easy (most AIs just stand there while 1-2 attack).

[Dark Slayer120]

the day they start doing online multiplayer deathmatches for action games is the day I quit gaming. keep that shit in the FPS genre.

Agreed.


QFT.

From what I heard, the single player is around 8-12 hours, I think. That's not too bad, because most action games are on the shorter side. I don't really care, as long as it was very enjoyable (like I beat Zone of the Enders in just over 4 hours, but it was one of the most memorable experiences ever).

Personally I am hoping at least 12hrs if not more. I really like long action games, because there are way to many short ones. Genji anyone? For me Ninja Gaiden was just the right length and for me it wasn't repetitive. Now if Heavenly sword is too repetitive then 8hrs might be a good thing.

[Vanigan]

To CheapyD and Wombat

beat/shoot/slice-em-up games do not need jump buttons. If you focus on the fighting, and don't bother with quirky platforming then there's no need for a jump button.

I'd rather lose the jump than have those stupid deathtrap puzzles from God of War.

Now, jumping was used well for Devil May Cry, also in the same genre, but it was a kind of rock and roll demon hero kind of game.

The removal of the jump does highlight the combat in that you can't simply jump over a crowd of guys in your way. If you want to get to the door on the other side of the room it's you and 15+ soldiers in your way.

Also, just take the time to read the multiple control pages, and try some of the combos.

I just don't like how this game was glossed over, but then the 360 segment gets even more time over nothing.

[psunami]

Just got another one of the GAP emails with the video links.

The anime video is quite good again.

[Dark Slayer120]

Just got another one of the GAP emails with the video links.

The anime video is quite good again.

I hope they keep releasing them on Psn.

[psunami]

I hope they keep releasing them on Psn.

From what I've read, they will keep releasing them on there the week that they come out.

[NamPaehc]

From what I've read, they will keep releasing them on there the week that they come out.

Yep.

1st via G.A.P.
2nd PSN on Thursdays.

[Dark Slayer120]

From what I've read, they will keep releasing them on there the week that they come out.

Yep.

1st via G.A.P.
2nd PSN on Thursdays.

Awesome, you can't beat that. :D

[NamPaehc]

1st via G.A.P. MONDAY's, should mention that too. :)

Here is a new image from a mag... Just because. :razz:

http://img118.imageshack.us/img118/5081/play0709ss1hz8.th.jpg (http://img118.imageshack.us/img118/5081/play0709ss1hz8.jpg)

[Dark Slayer120]

1st via G.A.P. MONDAY's, should mention that too. :)

Here is a new image from a mag... Just because. :razz:

http://img118.imageshack.us/img118/5081/play0709ss1hz8.th.jpg (http://img118.imageshack.us/img118/5081/play0709ss1hz8.jpg)

:drool: Very nice just because. ;) I already d/l the HS making of and the other HS anime from the Psn store and was impressed. I think it's pretty cool they are putting them up there, I'll be able to have the whole series then. ;)

[NamPaehc]

The man who is Gollum and King Kong gets his first game role. (http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=169883)

Andy Serkis is best known for playing Gollum and Smeagol in Peter Jackson's Lord Of The Rings trilogy, but he's also motion-captured the giant ape in King Kong, played Moors murderer Ian Brady and sung on stage with Tenacious D. Now he's playing despot King Bohan in Heavenly Sword. PSM3 caught up with him in London.

You've played Gollum who was quite evil, King Kong - who was sort of nice - and now the king, who seems totally evil again. Which is the most fun?

Andy Serkis: They're all interesting, it just depends how they're written. You can have badly written bad guys. What was appealing about this project was acting in a new medium and bringing truthfully-captured characters into a videogame environment. Also, I came on board mainly as the dramatic director, so I got involved in the early stages of the character development, casting and rehearsal.

The other actresses were saying this was their first motion-capture experience. What kind of advice did you give them?

AS: The main thing is that there's really no difference between acting and motion-capturing. The research, the trying to embody a character is the same. But the main thing about motion-capture is that you're sort of puppeteering a version of yourself. You can calibrate that by manipulating certain things about your personality.

We've read that you spent a while studying monkeys in preparation for Kong. Did you do anything at all like that for Heavenly Sword?

AS: Well, Bohan was this dictator that created his own moral universe where he was right. Rather than just playing an evil guy, you have to sort of believe in what you're doing - most dictators do. So I've been reading about dictators. Also, I'm pretty hopeless at games, but I've been getting familiar with them. I love playing Shadow Of The Colossus, just riding round on my horse looking for colossi. I haven't actually found any yet, though.

Part of the beauty of motion-capturing is that you can play any character. Bearing that in mind, if you were designing a character for yourself, what would it be like? We'd definitely be a ninja robot...

AS: Well, I don't think there's much point motion-capturing a human character. So even these characters, what they are, they're slightly heightened and exaggerated. I always like to play that sort of character, but I can't think of anything specific right now.

Are we right in thinking this is the first time when more than one character's been motion-captured at once? Does that make it easier?

AS: Well yes, because it's like shooting a film. It's much easier when you've got other people to work with...

Can you see a time when people get academy awards for their performance in a videogame?

AS: Well, I'm slightly ambivalent about the difference between playing a character and being motion-captured. It's no different from being in costume, except that instead of having synthetic materials on your face you've been captured in a game. Simple as that.

[NamPaehc]

10GB of sound in Heavenly Sword.

Ninja Theory's Heavenly Sword has some beautiful music -- anyone with the demo can testify to that. An interview with lead audio Tom Colvin has quantified the developer's focus on aural satisfaction: 10 GB of sound data is included in the game, according to Develop (http://www.developmag.com/tutorials/28/Heard-About-Heavenly-Sword).

That sizable number includes approximately three and a half hours of music, sound effects and 4,500 lines of dialog. "There's an hour and a half's worth of cut scenes in eleven languages," said SCEE's Garry Taylor.

A dual layer DVD disc has an 8.5 GB capacity; will Sony be touting that its competition couldn't even fit the audio onto their discs? We'd be surprised if they showed restraint.

[Vanigan]

Regardless of whether it's compressed or not (light compression can be a good thing when loading off the drive), the bluray was utilized here.

Despite what the naysayers said about not using all the space, I think it's a case of, give them the ability, and they will use it.

Epic just announced that they'll have to cut some levels from the 360 release of UT3 because they can't fit it on the DVD.

[NamPaehc]

Hmm well I'm not sure if its about compression. I just know that it'll have all the regions' data on one disc which I think is the reason it takes up a good chunk of disc.

[dallow]

Hmm well I'm not sure if its about compression. I just know that it'll have all the regions' data on one disc which I think is the reason it takes up a good chunk of disc.Which is neat, if I play through more than once, I'll be doing so in another language.

[imascrub]

i'll play in the language that has the most sultry sounding Nariko lol

[Inf^Shini]

Which is neat, WHEN I play through it more than once, I'll be doing so in another language.

Fixed. :lol:

[dallow]

HILAROUS video review of the HS demo, plus RE5

http://www.escapistmagazine.com/articles/view/editorials/zeropunctuation/1350-Zero-Punctuation-Heavenly-Sword-and-Other-Stuff

TWING TWANG!

[Dark Slayer120]

HILAROUS video review of the HS demo, plus RE5

http://www.escapistmagazine.com/articles/view/editorials/zeropunctuation/1350-Zero-Punctuation-Heavenly-Sword-and-Other-Stuff

TWING TWANG!


lmao.......

[mykevermin]

Ha. I just came here to post that Yahtzee video. :lol:

[dallow]

Haha, his other videos are great too.

Fable and The Darkness.
Seems like he's going to be doing them once a week now, every Wednesday.

[lanzarlaluna]

http://www.escapistmagazine.com/articles/view/editorials/zeropunctuation/1350-Zero-Punctuation-Heavenly-Sword-and-Other-Stuff Fucking brilliant.

[js1]

HILAROUS video review of the HS demo, plus RE5

http://www.escapistmagazine.com/articles/view/editorials/zeropunctuation/1350-Zero-Punctuation-Heavenly-Sword-and-Other-Stuff

TWING TWANG!

That was funny! Thanks for posting that.

[w1r3d]

hahaha when she cuts the rope and falls on a bunch of men doing manly things like arm wrestling and grunting.. hahahahahah

too good :lol:

[dallow]

SWEET new shots from a non-final build.

http://www.videogameszone.de/?menu=browser&mode=article&article_id=610121&entity_id=-1&image_id=684069&page=1&mag=25

[Apossum]

HILAROUS video review of the HS demo, plus RE5

http://www.escapistmagazine.com/articles/view/editorials/zeropunctuation/1350-Zero-Punctuation-Heavenly-Sword-and-Other-Stuff

TWING TWANG!



:rofl: amazing!

[Dark Slayer120]

SWEET new shots from a non-final build.

http://www.videogameszone.de/?menu=browser&mode=article&article_id=610121&entity_id=-1&image_id=684069&page=1&mag=25

Nice, thanks for those Dallow. :D

[coolz481]

I just received the September issue of Play Magazine yesterday featuring the Heavenly Sword cover. I know the writers, especially Halverson, can be over-the-top in their reviews and scores are often inflated. With that being said, HS scored a 10 with the only negative being the 6-8 hour length. That doesn't bother me a bit since it sounds as though it's so good you'll want to replay it often. I still remember paying $80 (!) for Streets of Rage 2 which can be beaten in under an hour on co-op, but it's still one of my favorites just because it's so fun to go back to. For what it's worth, it sounds like what's there on disc is awesome, but those expecting a 12-15 hour length game may be just a little disappointed.

[dallow]

You mentioned Play with their over the top scores.

But I read somewhere that there are two Play magazines, and the good one is the one that has given HS a 10 whereas the questionable one is the version that gave Sonic PS3 a 9.

[coolz481]

You mentioned Play with their over the top scores.

But I read somewhere that there are two Play magazines, and the good one is the one that has given HS a 10 whereas the questionable one is the version that gave Sonic PS3 a 9.

There is a Play UK magazine, but this is the Play published in the U.S. which is responsible both for the Sonic 9 and now the Heavenly Sword 10.

[dallow]

Ah ok, then it's the UK play that gave Lair an 8?

[NamPaehc]

More details on the 10GB audio that mentions dual layer BD: (http://gamers-creed.com/?p=377)


A developer from Ninja theory responds to the recent news about the developers using over 10GB of space for only Heavenly Sword audio.

The developers came very close to using a dual layer blu-ray disc because even with the size of the single layer blu-ray disc, they were having problems fitting all all of the game’s audio data onto a single layer blu- ray disc. According to the developer :

“We use a mixture of compressed and uncompressed, but lots were compressed for the reasons people have stated.
Make no doubt, fitting all the audio in and not stuttering and being the the highest quality we could get wasn’t easy, it was quite a problem even with the size of blu-ray. At one point we seriously considered dual layer Blu-ray cos of disk space issues.”

He further states that, as a result, the possibility of us seeing double layer blu-ray games should be really soon as , their first game for the PS3 almost occupied the whole space offered by a single layer blu-ray disc.

Ninja theory dev:

“Dual Layer BD is very real, as I said we very nearly became the first PS3 title to use it and this wasn’t just a random thought, it was seriously considered (including our publisher doing costing and manufacturing calculations).”

[Thomas96]

testing

[Vanigan]

Good grief, how many cutscenes do they have?

[Dark Slayer120]

More details on the 10GB audio that mentions dual layer BD: (http://gamers-creed.com/?p=377)

Holy hell.....

[RelentlessRolento]

check your e-mails GAP members... episode 3...

[Dark Slayer120]

check your e-mails GAP members... episode 3...

C'mon Thursday! :bomb:

[dallow]

Cool, I got into GAP yesterday.

C'mon betas!

[Inf^Shini]

Cool, I got into GAP yesterday.

C'mon betas!

What is this GAP and how can I get in? :-s

[dallow]

What is this GAP and how can I get in? :-sI'm not allowed to tell.

gamers advisory panel or something, it's a little group Sony made, they pick random people who are PS Underground members, they usually get first dibs on cool stuff, and put into betas, i just got a random email from PSU yesterday asking me to sign up

[NamPaehc]

Bunch of artwork I don't think was posted yet. (http://ps3.playfrance.com/news-artworks-heavenly-sword-en-32-artworks-691266.html)

I've seen some of them though.

[NamPaehc]

IGN UK review - 7.0 (http://ps3.ign.com/articles/815/815031p1.html)

[Apossum]

IGN UK review - 7.0 (http://ps3.ign.com/articles/815/815031p1.html)



wow, so that's Lair, Warhawk, and now Heavenly Sword all getting tepid reviews.

looks like Ratchet and Clank and Drake's Fortune will have to pick up the slack.

[ighosty]

sucks about the review, but UK has always killed games when reviewing, I can see US IGN giving it a 8.5 or even higher

[dallow]

sucks about the review, but UK has always killed games when reviewing, I can see US IGN giving it a 8.5 or even higherThat same reviewer gave Just Cause an 8.8 and Red Steel an 8.0.
Go figure.

[seanr1221]

I'll be pretty upset if this doesn't deliver. Especially because I loved the demo.

[dallow]

The latest trailer on the UK store is bad ass.
I'm pretty sure I'll enjoy the game while it lasts.

[Zoglog]

http://ps3.ign.com/articles/815/815031p1.html

So, all that in mind, is Heavenly Sword a bad game? No, it’s not – although it certainly seems that someone, somewhere, forgot to ensure they were piling those glorious peripheral trimmings on a game worthy of all that Sony gold. Combat is undoubtedly the title’s strength and offers some immensely satisfying thrills when you actually get your hands on your sword. Projectile combat, too, is entertaining in its own right – although nowhere near enough to carry such lengthy sequences as is demanded here. What you’re paying for then with Heavenly Sword is the grandiose spectacle, the overblown production values and the chance to show just what your PS3’s capable of when given the chance. It’s a benchmark in presentation for console gaming and the lavishness of the show might well be enough for you to overcome the game’s significant failings. There’s definitely some kind of fun to be had here – albeit of the one-engaged brain cell variety – but make no mistake: Heavenly Sword takes the age-old mantra of style over substance and drags it kicking and screaming into the next generation.

7/10

Looks like the concern I had reflects in the full version of the game. A real pity too since this game had so much potential.

[cdeener]

Dude, it is just one review. It's call play the game for yourself then give an impression on it and not just a demo.

[DrFoo]

Got 10/10 from play magazine. I'm guessing it'll average somewhere in between the two scores from the demo.

[Zoglog]

Dude, it is just one review. It's call play the game for yourself then give an impression on it and not just a demo.

For instance, it's a serious misstep when the strongest aspect of your game - sword play - is sidelined for almost 50 percent of its runtime. The very first level employs a massively hobbled version of the combat system which simply has none of the visceral thrill or satisfaction of the fully-fledged engine. Throw in the decision to completely remove sword fighting again in chapter three (of six, one of which is simply a boss fight), replaced by some over-egged archery, then cripple it later still with some pretty but soulless silliness, and it adds up to maybe three to four hours of decent combat in a game which takes a rather embarrassing, and distinctly un-epic, six or seven hours to beat.

Seems pretty clearcut to me. And play gives everything a 10.

[Moxio]

It's only 6-7 hours long!?





Holy shit...

[bobo2k4]

I was hoping it was at least 9-10 hours long.
Looks like I'll wait for a price drop on this one.

[TheShiz]

It's only 6-7 hours long!?





Holy shit...

no brainer rental

[dallow]

We do have a thread for this, and the review was posted:

http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/showthread.php?t=126968

[Apossum]

Got 10/10 from play magazine. I'm guessing it'll average somewhere in between the two scores from the demo.



everything gets a 10/10 from play magazine.

[Chacrana]

Had a nagging feeling that it'd end up having weak level design. After playing the demo, it was clear that the only focus was the combat.

If the other scores end up like this, I'll likely skip the game. Man, this and Lair. Not good times for the PS3.

[Maynard]

I dont understand why we as gamers put so much credibility into the hands of these "reviewers". I for one say just buy the game, rent the game, try it yourself.

[gokou36]

That same reviewer gave Just Cause an 8.8 and Red Steel an 8.0.
Go figure.


LMFAO!!!!!! That reviewer's credibility is all gone now. Red Steel is a 5 or less, I regret buying that piece of shit game.

[Ugamer_X]

I know it's just one person's opinion, but those archery parts looked like ass from the get-go. If the pacing of the game breaks down tthe way the reveiewer described it, I'll definitely be rethinking my purchase.

[BREVITY]

It will take longer to get here from Gamefly than it will to beat it. lol

[H.Cornerstone]

Had a nagging feeling that it'd end up having weak level design. After playing the demo, it was clear that the only focus was the combat.

If the other scores end up like this, I'll likely skip the game. Man, this and Lair. Not good times for the PS3.

We still got Warhawk, which contrary to internet reviews, is an extremely fun game

[dallow]

I don't know how you guys take reviews, but I see all scores 70% and above as the same.

it's only when it's less than that level that I take a little notice and perhaps raise my eyebrows.

[sparklecopy]

is this in 1080P? the demo was only 720p

[robin2099]

Ouch, looks like this game is the PS3's equivalent of The Bouncer. Ah well, HS may be a dissapointment, but I maintain complete faith in Uncharted.

[psunami]

It will take longer to get here from Gamefly than it will to beat it. lol

Hell, you could beat Oblivion in the time it take for Gamefly to ship games to me...

[Thomas96]

I don't care what they rate it... I'm going to enjoy this game.. we've all played the game, and if they're only complaining about the combat, then I think we'll enjoy the game. Most people enjoyed the combat... on the demo...

[Skexis]

I'm not allowed to tell.

gamers advisory panel or something, it's a little group Sony made, they pick random people who are PS Underground members, they usually get first dibs on cool stuff, and put into betas, i just got a random email from PSU yesterday asking me to sign up

Is it really random? I figured they just emailed everybody with a PS3 as a way to sign us up for another newsletter. :)

I still have hope for the game. I think the music, voice acting, and facial animation has the opportunity to sell the story well. The rest should be just gravy.

[dallow]

Is it really random? I figured they just emailed everybody with a PS3 as a way to sign us up for another newsletter. :)

I still have hope for the game. I think the music, voice acting, and facial animation has the opportunity to sell the story well. The rest should be just gravy.Yeah, it's random, or else there would be a lot more GAP members.

I was a PSU member for years and years now. Since PS1.
Finally, I'm in. Hehe.

Yeah, that review mentions a lot of good things. Everyone should read it.

[SteveMcQ]

wow, so that's Lair, Warhawk, and now Heavenly Sword all getting tepid reviews.

looks like Ratchet and Clank and Drake's Fortune will have to pick up the slack.There's a Warhawk review somewhere online? Care to link me if that's the case? I wanna see what kind of game I'm getting myself into. It was a blind buy since I didn't get into the beta, I haven't read coverage on the game, and never played the original. Got it coming in soon hopefully.

And concerning GAP: on top of being random the way they pick them according to dallow, it seems the stuff they send out is pretty random. I'll get brochures about a game or two that seemingly has no relation to stuff I've registered or bought from them. The last decent thing I got from them was a G.A.P. hat, but it was a bit on the large side.

[freshzen]

IGN UK review - 7.0 (http://ps3.ign.com/articles/815/815031p1.html)
Strange review....I seriously doubt HS has better graphics and presentation than actual gameplay.

[The Mana Knight]

Not sure if this has been posted, but OPM U.K. gave it a 89%:
http://uk.gamespot.com/pages/forums/show_msgs.php?topic_id=25873285

I expect mixed reviews.

[The Mana Knight]

Not sure if this has been posted, but OPM U.K. gave it a 89%:
http://uk.gamespot.com/pages/forums/show_msgs.php?topic_id=25873285

Like the demos of the game, people either loved it or hated it.

[Dark Slayer120]

They can rate it what ever they want to. I am still going to get the game and then base MY OPINION on it. As long as I enjoy the game thats all that matters, if I don't I can always sell it or trade it away.

[robin2099]

Why do people always take reviews so personally? A game they want gets bad reviews and they always come back with "I don't care cause it's my opinion that matters." And guess what, that reviewer gave his opinion too. So why get so offended and angered. Sometimes their wrong and other times their right.

[looploop]

Hm, from the way the person wrote about the game's poor direction/design I would've expected a 5-6 in the end.

[Cyb3-rr]

Definite rental, but I'm sure I'll enjoy it.

[Dark Slayer120]

Why do people always take reviews so personally? A game they want gets bad reviews and they always come back with "I don't care cause it's my opinion that matters." And guess what, that reviewer gave his opinion too. So why get so offended and angered. Sometimes their wrong and other times their right.

Who is angered or offended their buddy? :-s I could care less if he gave it a one since I plan on getting it release day.

[NamPaehc]

Hm, from the way the person wrote about the game's poor direction/design I would've expected a 5-6 in the end.

Yes it did seem uneven to mee too.

Also the way the reviewer complains about the combat being to shallow and its repetition, then complains about how it should just be a beat-um-up is confusing.

Also there is a mention about the puzzles being to easy. I remember with God of War, reviewers were complaining about how they slowed that game down to much but here they praise them. Another confusing clue- do you want more action or more "thoughtful" pacing?

So to me... that shows me that they wanted the game to be something else and didn't really judge it on what it is.

[Beaudry]

For a comparison about the length of the game, here are some reviews for the crtically acclaimed Gears of War:

"It's short, at about 8 hours in length, and the last level and a half seems abrupt. I still feel like there’s a rail sequence missing when the squad tears away from the mansion in the APC... It also doesn't necessarily take the third-person shooter to new heights. What it does, however, is present one of the best looking and sounding games whose gameplay is as polished as it gets, with intense shootouts, exciting boss battles, and sleep-depriving online play."

"It really will take you only around six hours to complete the Campaign on the standard setting, but you will have such an exhilarating time playing through it you will probably start all over again on Insane difficulty..."

[Ugamer_X]

For a comparison about the length of the game, here are some reviews for the crtically acclaimed Gears of War:

"It's short, at about 8 hours in length, and the last level and a half seems abrupt. I still feel like there’s a rail sequence missing when the squad tears away from the mansion in the APC... It also doesn't necessarily take the third-person shooter to new heights. What it does, however, is present one of the best looking and sounding games whose gameplay is as polished as it gets, with intense shootouts, exciting boss battles, and sleep-depriving online play."

"It really will take you only around six hours to complete the Campaign on the standard setting, but you will have such an exhilarating time playing through it you will probably start all over again on Insane difficulty..."
GoW had top-notch multiplayer.

[whoknows]

I'm still getting it. I really enjoyed the demo even though it ended as soon as you blinked.

Alternatively, I'm still getting LAIR as well.

I have a hard time believing these games are as bad as the reviews out so far are making them to be. (and the EGM LAIR review wasnt that bad since a 5 for them is a 7 for everyone else)

[shrike4242]

This one went from pre-order to "wait for real reviews" status for me.

Same for Lair & Warhawk.

[apokalipze2]

Why do people always take reviews so personally? A game they want gets bad reviews and they always come back with "I don't care cause it's my opinion that matters." And guess what, that reviewer gave his opinion too. So why get so offended and angered. Sometimes their wrong and other times their right.Beause the game is highly anticipated and now it's getting slammed.

[Halo05]

Not really a shock. The demo did nothing for me.

Perhaps in a world where God of War I & II and Ninja Gaiden don't exist it would've been good.

[bo0]

The demo felt very blehh. I'm not shocked at all. The battle system in the demo was sloppy.

[refusedchaos]

i got my hands on an advance copy (from a friend who is currently reviewing the game) and i can tell you this:

its ok, it tries to be like Ninja Gaiden Sigma....though i rly enjoyed the music in the game ;) ...think of it as a girl verison medevil Sigma

[Orion_of_Chaos]

yeah, I'm still getting this. my biggets complaint with the demo was that I wanted more, so I can't see myself passing on it whatever the reviews say.

[Inf^Shini]

This is supposed to turn into a trilogy right? So we're lookin' at two more Heavenly Swords eh?

[The Mana Knight]

The demo felt very blehh. I'm not shocked at all. The battle system in the demo was sloppy.Why do people try to change their opinion to fit a review, after playing a demo? I'm not trying to accuse you of doing this, but I've seen many do this before. I loved the demo and I'll buy it.
This is supposed to turn into a trilogy right? So we're lookin' at two more Heavenly Swords eh?Depends upon SCE I hear. I hope so, because they can build on the previous awesome graphic engine, then make the combat and everything else smoother.

GamePro gave the game a 4.5/5 I hear.

[bo0]

The US IGN review just went live and Chris Roper scored the game the same as the UK review with similar complaints.


I think this game is worthy of a rental as a good game. Overall I'm not really seeing a reason to spend $60 on this game. Personally I feel like this game is just more of the same but if it's your bag then drop the cash for it to kill sometime until another ps3 game.

[The Mana Knight]

It's weird because the U.S. review was slightly higher, but still ended up with the same score. That's messed up IMO.

[Apossum]

Guess this will make a good freebie on a B2G1 sometime next year after it drops to around 19-29 used.

[robin2099]

Who is angered or offended their buddy? :-s I could care less if he gave it a one since I plan on getting it release day. I'm not calling anyone out here. But after the review got posted, three people responded with "I don't care what the reviewer says, my opinion matters and I'm getting it anyway." If people still want to get it thats their perogative, but for any anticipated game, people always act like the reviwers are scum and their opnion shouldn't matter when it's just that an opinion.

[NamPaehc]

Gamepro = 4.5/5 (http://www.gamepro.com/sony/ps3/games/reviews/130968.shtml)

Pros: An interesting narrative, fantastic production values and deep combat system results in the first triple-A PS3 title of note.

Cons: The game's combat system stresses reaction over action, the boss battles are iffy and the storytelling is uneven.

[Furashu]

wtf 6 hours long? thats 10 dollars an hour right there

[The Mana Knight]

After thinking about it last night, I'm far from being worried about the review. Last generation, games like Zone of the Enders, Castlevania: LoI, Shinobi, and some other action games were very hyped, but got low review scores by some (or around 7's I should say). Part of it had to do with being repetitive, too short, etc. I know plenty of people who loved any or all of those games, especially me (Two of them happen to be my favorite PS2 action games). I remember ICO even getting a few 7/10's (like in PSM) because combat was too simple and repetitive. Even Kingdom Hearts series gets crapped on by some for being repetitive they say, yet its one of my favorite games ever. An N3, Devil Kings, DW, etc. all got a bad review because they were repetitive to them, yet there's a good fanbase who loves them (like me).

Despite God of War and Devil May Cry getting mostly good scores, there are those who feel they are too repetitive and don't like them.

So anyway, I played the demo yesterday and still had just as much fun as ever, just like a few other similar action games I played demos to (that got bad reviews).

Lastly, it somewhat bothers me when people complain if a game is too short, but a lot of fun. Would you rather have a short/fun game or one that's extremely long and drawn out? Although I like RPGs, I bought too many of them because I felt they were worth buying more so than other games due to being long. When you factor in time, and some of them just becoming too drawn out over time, it's not worth it. Zone of the Enders is very short (I beat it in 4 hours 17 minutes), yet it was so memorable I played it several times.
wtf 6 hours long? thats 10 dollars an hour right thereICO was 5 hours long and was initially $50, on PS2.

I'm going to say this over and over again. The developers said themselves that the higher difficulties of the game really are hard and make take around 8-10 hours to complete. I will bet the reviewer tried the easiest difficulty level, just to blow through the game as quickly as possible. Also, you really think reviewers tried to do EVERYTHING the game has to offer? I highly doubt it because they are pressed on time.

[Apossum]

I'm going to say this over and over again. The developers said themselves that the higher difficulties of the game really are hard and make take around 8-10 hours to complete. I will bet the reviewer tried the easiest difficulty level, just to blow through the game as quickly as possible. Also, you really think reviewers tried to do EVERYTHING the game has to offer? I highly doubt it because they are pressed on time.


Actually it sounds like they did do everything the game has to offer. How hard is it to understand-- normal mode is short, the unlockables are stuff you can download right now. Do you think there's a hidden extra 15 hours of gameplay in there?


ast generation, games like Zone of the Enders, Castlevania: LoI, Shinobi, and some other action games were very hyped, but got low review scores by some (or around 7's I should say). Part of it had to do with being repetitive, too short, etc. I know plenty of people who loved any or all of those games, especially me (Two of them happen to be my favorite PS2 action games). I remember ICO even getting a few 7/10's (like in PSM) because combat was too simple and repetitive. Even Kingdom Hearts series gets crapped on by some for being repetitive they say, yet its one of my favorite games ever. An N3, Devil Kings, DW, etc. all got a bad review because they were repetitive to them, yet there's a good fanbase who loves them (like me).

Despite God of War and Devil May Cry getting mostly good scores, there are those who feel they are too repetitive and don't like them.


and it sounds like heavenly sword will fall right in to the niche of people who like flashy action games with no substance.

[ighosty]

really surprised about the reviews for this one, still a good rent tho.

[The Mana Knight]

Actually it sounds like they did do everything the game has to offer. How hard is it to understand-- normal mode is short, the unlockables are stuff you can download right now. Do you think there's a hidden extra 15 hours of gameplay in there?The question is, did they even attempt hard mode, or even hell mode. The developers said themselves it will take a while to beat it. What do people want, doing the same thing over and over again for several hours.
and it sounds like heavenly sword will fall right in to the niche of people who like flashy action games with no substance.There's nothing wrong with that. A reviewer has NO more creditability than you, me, or anyone else on this forum. They are just someone who plays games. I 100% guarantee there is NO game every single person at CAG would give a high score, regardless of what platform it's on. Game Pro, Play OPM U.K., etc. gave the game around an 89-100% review. They have no more/less creditability than IGN, Gamespot, etc. Only difference is IGN/Gamespot is just huge and well known. Many have considered Valkyrie Profile to be the greatest RPG ever, yet Gamespot gave it a 7.

[Apossum]

The question is, did they even attempt hard mode, or even hell mode. The developers said themselves it will take a while to beat it. What do people want, doing the same thing over and over again for several hours.

like any game, it'll take more time to finish if you decide to play through it again. when people talk about hours to completion, it's for one playthrough, not all of the modes combined. (besides, I'd bet my left nut that the AI in the harder modes isn't even worth playing against. "hard" probably means "block longer, do more damage." )


There's nothing wrong with that. A reviewer has NO more creditability than you, me, or anyone else on this forum. They are just someone who plays games. I 100% guarantee there is NO game every single person at CAG would give a high score, regardless of what platform it's on. Game Pro, Play OPM U.K., etc. gave the game around an 89-100% review. They have no more/less creditability than IGN, Gamespot, etc. Only difference is IGN/Gamespot is just huge and well known. Many have considered Valkyrie Profile to be the greatest RPG ever, yet Gamespot gave it a 7.


wow...you're really umm...broken up about this :lol: I'm just saying this game will be more of a God of War, Dynasty Warriors, N3 type of game rather than up there with the two untouchable action games: Ninja Gaiden and Devil May Cry.

[cdeener]

It's cool with me that this game is short because of all the time I will be dedicating to Halo 3 and other games coming out between then and the end of the year when it comes out it will be nice to rent this to have a change of pace but I at least it was going to be ten hours.

[Dark Slayer120]

Hmm I still want to get it, but I may wait for a price drop first or try to score a copy for $40 or so. I don't want to spend $60 on a game I can beat in 6hrs.

[NamPaehc]

IGN has their video review up to be watched. (http://media.ps3.ign.com/media/700/700186/vids_1.html)

[Dark Slayer120]

IGN has their video review up to be watched. (http://media.ps3.ign.com/media/700/700186/vids_1.html)

Looks great, I'll probably still end up getting it on day one. Not like the PS3 has tons of games to choose from at the moment anyway. Plus with no interest in Lair or warhawk I got to play something new lol. ;)

[The Mana Knight]

I'll get the game for 15-20% off at Meijer, like I do with most all my PS3 games. ;)

[whoknows]

Can't wait for this game. I'll be getting LAIR, Heavenly Sword, and the Stranglehold CE next month. Give my PS3 a lot to do :D

Good times.

[jling84]

If the full game is anything at all like the 5 secon.. I mean minute demo, then I'm definitely getting it first day. I think I must have played that demo 20 times. Once I got really familiar with the battle system, I actually ended up liking it far more than the system in God of War (blasphemy! I know). Anyway... CANNOT WAIT!

[Thomas96]

I'm not calling anyone out here. But after the review got posted, three people responded with "I don't care what the reviewer says, my opinion matters and I'm getting it anyway." If people still want to get it thats their perogative, but for any anticipated game, people always act like the reviwers are scum and their opnion shouldn't matter when it's just that an opinion.


that was me who said that... just because the game isn't getting 9.0 doesn't mean that it won't me someone's favorite game, or a great game. I bought Bioshock it got a 9.0, but its not my fav game, I'm not that into it. So when I say I don't care about what reviewers say, I definitely don't mean to say that they're scum, but rather I'd hate for someone to miss out on a game they themselves would consider great just because of a low review score. Now if the game gets a 5.0 or below, and has big time issues, then of course skip it.


Madden 08, from ign got an 7.7, and an 8.5 from gamestop - I'm not trying to compare games and review scores, but those were some generous scores where the gameplay is horrible. IGN said the cutscenes were great and the fighting was deep, they're only two drawbacks (from the video review) was repetitiveness, and they didn't like using the aftertouch for solving puzzles; also, they mentioned the game was about 6-7 hours, [that could be a negative]

I played the demo, I know this game is nothing more than a 3d golden axe... beat em up. So I'm getting the game anyway, cause I sure I'm going to enjoy it. As long as the gameplay, story, and graphics are good, then I could easily see myself giving the game at least a 8.0, also, the game does have extras.

[Dark Slayer120]

Can't wait for this game. I'll be getting LAIR, Heavenly Sword, and the Stranglehold CE next month. Give my PS3 a lot to do :D

Good times.

Oh really? You'll have to let me know how Lair is. I'll get those other two games though for sure, since I have played demos of both of them and liked what I played. :)

[whoknows]

If the full game is anything at all like the 5 secon.. I mean minute demo, then I'm definitely getting it first day. I think I must have played that demo 20 times. Once I got really familiar with the battle system, I actually ended up liking it far more than the system in God of War (blasphemy! I know). Anyway... CANNOT WAIT!
Actually it's not blasphemy. The combat system is GoW is very shallow whether people want to admit it or not.

[Kendal]

I'll get the game for 15-20% off at Meijer, like I do with most all my PS3 games. ;)


You can get HS for less than the Meijer from www.familyvideo.com I am trying to figure out which game I should get next. I want one for my PS3. I just can't decide. I probably should hold on to it for the TRU buy 2 get 1 sale this winter. Or LBP or MGS.

[Dark Slayer120]

You can get HS for less than the Meijer from www.familyvideo.com I am trying to figure out which game I should get next. I want one for my PS3. I just can't decide. I probably should hold on to it for the TRU buy 2 get 1 sale this winter. Or LBP or MGS.

Nice that is the perfect price for it! Thanks Kendal

[The Mana Knight]

http://www.tilt.tv/?cm=games&aid=13694

Tilt TV gave the game a 10/10. It's a really popular gaming show in Finland.
You can get HS for less than the Meijer from www.familyvideo.com I am trying to figure out which game I should get next. I want one for my PS3. I just can't decide. I probably should hold on to it for the TRU buy 2 get 1 sale this winter. Or LBP or MGS.Yeah, I heard, but haven't felt like setting it up and stuff. ;)

I might use the TRU sale for stuff, but as of right now, I have no idea what I'll end up getting.

[NamPaehc]

So... When you guys get this game are you going to just button mash your way though or actually try to figure out the combo system? I know you can't just randomly press buttons as in other games with button mashing, but you can sort of stick with one button.

I tried the demo again and tried fighting with a different combo for every enemy. Also I tried to go without taking damage just because. Seemed more enjoyable to say "okay lets see how many ways I can kill these guys and see how much of bad fuck Nariko is" instead of "okay, I'm here, I want to get to the next part so I gotta kill these guys really quickly!"

This isn't God of War. People are missing that I think. They are playing it as if it was, killing and ripping through the baddies as fast as possible.

The way I see this game is that yes, you are in a bunch of "arena matches" , but if you take your time and get familair with the game you will get a lot more out of the whole experiance. At least that is what I am hoping!

[Dark Slayer120]

So... When you guys get this game are you going to just button mash your way though or actually try to figure out the combo system? I know you can't just randomly press buttons as in other games with button mashing, but you can sort of stick with one button.

I tried the demo again and tried fighting with a different combo for every enemy. Also I tried to go without taking damage just because. Seemed more enjoyable to say "okay lets see how many ways I can kill these guys and see how much of bad fuck Nariko is" instead of "okay, I'm here, I want to get to the next part so I gotta kill these guys really quickly!"

This isn't God of War. People are missing that I think. They are playing it as if it was, killing and ripping through the baddies as fast as possible.

The way I see this game is that yes, you are in a bunch of "arena matches" , but if you take your time and get familair with the game you will get a lot more out of the whole experiance. At least that is what I am hoping!

I've played the demo about 15 times, and each time I have used different strategies. My favorite one thus far is counter only. Where I stand there in each fight, and wait for them to come at me, and only try to counter their attacks with triangle. It really makes it a lot more fun and challenging IMO. I'll go through the game trying all different kind of techniques. I know it isn't GOW, because that combat got old and fast. This seemed to do it better from what I played and I hope to get my $50 worth out of it, even if it is only 6hrs long.

[jedi0077]

PLAY magazine thinks so, I think they got $$$$'d off. Think it's going to be a good game but no where near perfect. 9 maybe, 8.5 more likely. If you read the article you find out that it is REALLY short. Maybe Sony should sell it at 39.99 since it's 50% of a game.

[Ugamer_X]

You're fuckin' stupid.

[dallow]

EGM score:

Heavenly Sword 8, 8, 9

[whoknows]

EGM score:

Heavenly Sword 8, 8, 9
Guess the game sucks. That's it. Sony might as well announce the PS3 is dead.


Seriously though, thats pretty good. Big step up from their LAIR scores.

[Dark Slayer120]

Guess the game sucks. That's it. Sony might as well announce the PS3 is dead.


Seriously though, thats pretty good. Big step up from their LAIR scores.

:lol: They better get the PS9 out!

[RiCeBo1]

fuck the reviews, I'm still buying this game!!

[Apossum]

10 is average at Play

[seanr1221]

8,8,9 from EGM? Not bad at all, what they say about it?

[guinaevere]

FYI. Merged the seperate HS review threads in here.

Discuss ratings as you like. Well, within reason.

[Inf^Shini]

FYI. Merged the seperate HS review threads in here.

Discuss ratings as you like. Well, within reason.

I like how you left Ugamer_X's comment in there after jedi's :lol:

[shnizzle66]

This game looks amazing and all but.


I still think its a rental. If i can get free, ill do that. But i have priorities (warhawk, stranglehold, halo 3, etc etc)

[ihadFG]

I like how you left Ugamer_X's comment in there after jedi's :lol:

Yeah :lol:

[whoknows]

Less than 2 weeks until this is out. I'm getting fairly excited for it.

[Inf^Shini]

Less than 2 weeks until this is out. I'm getting fairly excited for it.

When's the street date for this?

[whoknows]

9/12 as far as I know

[Dark Slayer120]

Ha ha nice 8.0

[whoknows]

I wonder if I need to pre-order this. Gamestop will probably get it in on wednesday...I wonder if other stores will get it in the same day because I hate waiting :-P

[Dark Slayer120]

I wonder if I need to pre-order this. Gamestop will probably get it in on wednesday...I wonder if other stores will get it in the same day because I hate waiting :-P

I doubt you will need too honestly...

[gunm]

I pre-ordered from Family Video for $10 off MSRP. It'll be slow, I suspect, but I don't mind as long as I get it.

Edit: BTW, gametrailers gave it a 7.9. I think that's pretty fair, and it looks like this game will continue to avg 7.5-8ish (if you even care about that sort of thing).

I like this type of game, so I'm gettin' it. Not like there's a lot of other PS3 games this holiday that are going to compete with it anyways.

[Thomas96]

I doubt you will need too honestly...


i felt the same way... plus you never know who might have a special on the game.

[ReaperZER0]

I pre-ordered it, but I think I'm going to rent it and switch the pre-order to Skate on the same day. I realized as I was driving back home that this game would not be worth full price for as short as it is.

[Rei no Otaku]

http://www.gamespot.com/ps3/action/heavenlysword/review.html

8.0 from Gamespot.

[Dark Slayer120]

http://www.gamespot.com/ps3/action/heavenlysword/review.html

8.0 from Gamespot.

Nice.

[FriskyTanuki]

Gonna drop off GRAW2 tonight so that I can get Heavenly Sword from Gamefly this week. Can't wait to get it.

[whoknows]

I think I'm going to hold off on this now.

If I can beat it in an afternoon it's not worth $60. I like short games, but that's too short and too expensive.

[Dark Slayer120]

I think I'm going to hold off on this now.

If I can beat it in an afternoon it's not worth $60. I like short games, but that's too short and too expensive.

It's about 6hrs long from what I am hearing. Just do what I am doing and trade in some old shit you wont play again.

[whoknows]

It's about 6hrs long from what I am hearing. Just do what I am doing and trade in some old shit you wont play again.
Yeah...but still. That's really really short. I honestly would rather have Stranglehold at the moment so I'll wait for the CE of that I guess.

Maybe I'll just rent Heavenly Sword.

[Dark Slayer120]

Yeah...but still. That's really really short. I honestly would rather have Stranglehold at the moment so I'll wait for the CE of that I guess.

Maybe I'll just rent Heavenly Sword.

Oh yeah Stranglehold should be awesome, if you only have enough for one then I would get that over Heavenly Sword. You have to think though that is about as long as Ico was and I loved that. If I beat it and don't like it I am going to sell it to a friend since he will give me $60 for it if I don't like it. My brother is just renting it since it is so short, but since I played the demo about 20 times I'm sure I'll enjoy the game enough to put it in my collection.

[apokalipze2]

Shame that the game is only six hours long. It was one of my most anticipated titles of this year:cry: I guess I'll be renting it.

[gunm]

Geez, 6-8 hours? I hate to say it, but that is pretty short for a $60 game. Still, the length doesn't bother me too much, since I never play for more than a couple hours straight, and rarely ever play a linear/single player game more than a couple of times a week at the most. Plus it seems like a lot of that $60 is tied into the quality and presentation of the game.

I guess I'm willing to pay $50 for this game, but I sure hope there's some DLC, or I might have some buyer's remorse on this one...particularly if MSRP drops any faster than one year from release (although I doubt it).

[orko60]

Oh yeah Stranglehold should be awesome, if you only have enough for one then I would get that over Heavenly Sword. You have to think though that is about as long as Ico was and I loved that. If I beat it and don't like it I am going to sell it to a friend since he will give me $60 for it if I don't like it. My brother is just renting it since it is so short, but since I played the demo about 20 times I'm sure I'll enjoy the game enough to put it in my collection.

From what I hear, Stranglehold's length is similar. I don't know, though; I had much more fun with the HS demo than Stranglehold's. I'm a huge Max Payne fan, and I was so excited to play it, but it just didn't feel very FUN to me. I'll be passing on this game (which I had assumed would be a first day purchase for me).

I got $150 worth of gift cards from Barnes and Noble for my birthday, so I preordered both Warhawk and HS. They're both basically free, and I'm enjoying the hell out of Warhawk at the moment. Should be receiving HS in a few days! Can't wait!

[Dark Slayer120]

From what I hear, Stranglehold's length is similar. I don't know, though; I had much more fun with the HS demo than Stranglehold's. I'm a huge Max Payne fan, and I was so excited to play it, but it just didn't feel very FUN to me. I'll be passing on this game (which I had assumed would be a first day purchase for me).

I got $150 worth of gift cards from Barnes and Noble for my birthday, so I preordered both Warhawk and HS. They're both basically free, and I'm enjoying the hell out of Warhawk at the moment. Should be receiving HS in a few days! Can't wait!

I don't know I thought SH was very fun. Either way I am getting both of these games, it's not like the PS3 has a lot to choose from as it is. Just got to compare SH for the 360/PS3 and see which is the better version so I know what system to buy it for. I am a little disappointed though that SH isn't any longer then 6-8hrs.

[Dark Slayer120]

Geez, 6-8 hours? I hate to say it, but that is pretty short for a $60 game. Still, the length doesn't bother me too much, since I never play for more than a couple hours straight, and rarely ever play a linear/single player game more than a couple of times a week at the most. Plus it seems like a lot of that $60 is tied into the quality and presentation of the game.

I guess I'm willing to pay $50 for this game, but I sure hope there's some DLC, or I might have some buyer's remorse on this one...particularly if MSRP drops any faster than one year from release (although I doubt it).

Yeah I agree, I hope there is some DLC as well. The length bothers me but I just think of other short games I enjoyed and still have (Ico, GOW) so as long as it's as good if not better then those two games I wont regret dropping $20 on it. I love having store credit. ;)

[bo0]

I'm only going to rent this. Doesn't seem worth it. I dont care what the reviews say.

[Thomas96]

It's about 6hrs long from what I am hearing. Just do what I am doing and trade in some old shit you wont play again.


time I trade in something.. 3 months later, or 3 years later its like I'm dying to play the game one more time. .however, if I never trade it in, I never even think about it.

[Thomas96]

This game could benefit from some extra modes... like Survival mode.. where you just fight against soldiers, but in a game like this there isn't much you can add to make it longer, it is what it is.

[InuFaye]

The 6 hours does not bother me, I would rather have something be great for 6 hours then be mediocre and 12. Call me crazy but I take quality over quantity. With DMC not coming till next year this is probably my most look foreward to game of this year.

[Rei no Otaku]

The 6 hours does not bother me, I would rather have something be great for 6 hours then be mediocre and 12. Call me crazy but I take quality of quantity.
Completely agree. If I have a great time for 6 hours then I got my money's worth.

[Zoglog]

6 hours does bug me, but i'll just ebay it after i'm done.

[Apossum]

The sequel will probably be a lot longer.

I like short games but $10 an hour is a bit much. I have so many other games to play that I'll just wait until I can get it for $20.

[sociopharm02]

A game that only lasts 6 hours should not be priced as a full price game. 49.99 would have been a better price point. I guess we are all just so desperate for PS3 games we can't complain. I love my PS3 but the fact that games like Skate, Medal of Honor are all coming out after the 360 versions just sucks.

[The Mana Knight]

The sequel will probably be a lot longer.

I like short games but $10 an hour is a bit much. I have so many other games to play that I'll just wait until I can get it for $20.ICO was only 5 hours long, yet many don't complain because the game is so good.

[-Never4ever-]

ICO was only 5 hours long, yet many don't complain because the game is so good.

ICO is a damn near masterpiece, I some how doubt Heavenly Sword falls under the same category. Not to mention that ICO can be had for under $20.

Still, I am psyched for Heavenly Sword. I finally get to play an actual PS3 game not named Calling All Cars or Resistance :D

[Dark Slayer120]

The 6 hours does not bother me, I would rather have something be great for 6 hours then be mediocre and 12. Call me crazy but I take quality over quantity.


ICO was only 5 hours long, yet many don't complain because the game is so good.

I agree with both of you.

[Apossum]

ICO was only 5 hours long, yet many don't complain because the game is so good.


True, but I prefer something a little longer (even 9 or 10 hours) especially for an action game. I probably would have paid $50 for ICO at launch. I would've paid $60 for this if it was receiving heart-wrenching praise despite its shortness. From what it sounds like, HS is an action game not on par with DMC or NG, though still pretty good, though not without its problems.

[FriskyTanuki]

Anybody seen the commercial yet? Nariko's hair looks about 1000 times better than it does in the game. If Ninja Theory can get the hair looking that good for HS2, :drool:.

[Dark Slayer120]

Anybody seen the commercial yet? Nariko's hair looks about 1000 times better than it does in the game. If Ninja Theory can get the hair looking that good for HS2, :drool:.

If there is a HS2 that is. I am sure it will depend on how well HS1 does sell wise...

[Thomas96]

I keep hearing about games too short.. .what action game wasn't too short... what action game was long enough. The point - is the game fun? That's what I'm paying for.. something that I'm going to enjoy.

[whoknows]

I keep hearing about games too short.. .what action game wasn't too short... what action game was long enough. The point - is the game fun? That's what I'm paying for.. something that I'm going to enjoy.
The problem with me is that I know I'll enjoy it, but with it being as short as it is with nearly no replay value, I'll play it and then the game will sit on my shelf and depreciate in value.

[Dark Slayer120]

what action game wasn't too short... what action game was long enough.

Ninja Gaiden/DMC3.

[NamPaehc]

The problem with me is that I know I'll enjoy it, but with it being as short as it is with nearly no replay value, I'll play it and then the game will sit on my shelf and depreciate in value.

Why I think Sony can't get the trophy system out fast enough. Won't add a ton of value, but might get some of the replayablity up for some games in the future.

[FriskyTanuki]

If there is a HS2 that is. I am sure it will depend on how well HS1 does sell wise...
They're planning for a trilogy, at the least, so it's not like they need much encouragement to keep it going.

[NamPaehc]

Huge update from the PSBlog. (http://blog.us.playstation.com/2007/09/12/heavenly-sword-arrives/)

[Dark Slayer120]

They're planning for a trilogy, at the least, so it's not like they need much encouragement to keep it going.

That is true but if HS bombs in sells, I can't see them making another two. Other game developers planned sequels and trilogies but ended up not doing them because of lack luster sales. Advent Rising anyone?

[gunm]

There aren't many PS3 games out right now, let alone PS3 exclusive ones. If there is any significant number of PS3 owners who didn't want just a blu-ray player, this game will sell and sell enough for part 2.

[FriskyTanuki]

That is true but if HS bombs in sells, I can't see them making another two. Other game developers planned sequels and trilogies but ended up not doing them because of lack luster sales. Advent Rising anyone?
And Advent Rising got mediocre scores (HS is pretty much getting 8's across the board) and had that huge launch contest cancelled, so there wasn't a lot going for it. I doubt HS tanks in sales, but I don't really see it being another God of War.

[Psykodelik]

That is true but if HS bombs in sells, I can't see them making another two. Other game developers planned sequels and trilogies but ended up not doing them because of lack luster sales. Advent Rising anyone?

I remember playing that when it was first demo'ed at E3. The controls and everything was bad at that time. I talked to a guy over there if they would be working on the controls and such. He didn't seem like he was too excited about the game either.

On topic: I still plan to get HS. The "6hrs" playtime is perfect for me. If this was a couple of years ago...I would've thought differently.

[Dark Slayer120]

I guess we'll see, all I know is a lot of my friends are just renting it since it's so short. I hope for a part two so I am hoping it sells well enough for it.

[Thomas96]

HS has a good story, good character design.. based on that alone I'd give it a second shot...

[Rei no Otaku]

Anyone else pick it up today? I'm installing the game data on the HD as I type this. One thing that sucks is the game is 720p only. So those of you with the old HDTVs might want to take note of that, but it works fine with my TV so I don't care too much! *is selfish*

[Inf^Shini]

Anyone else pick it up today? I'm installing the game data on the HD as I type this. One thing that sucks is the game is 720p only. So those of you with the old HDTVs might want to take note of that.
Oh snap, I forgot this came out today *runs off to store for a trade-in*

[NamelessMC]

The reasons I left it on the shelf-
720p only as above poster said. My TV only has 480p and 1080i. I won't buy a completely brand new TV just for one game.

6 hours play time.

My friend at Gamestop let me play it, it's just as choppy as the demo was. It's not tremendously bad, but it's bad enough to make me second guess a $60 game. If a game's only 6 hours long, there's no reason it shouldn't play perfect and crisp.

Two freakin' buttons. When a game has as much attack diversity as Final Fight on arcade from 1988, I really don't know what to expect.

The multi-language and graphics and sound are really good, but I want a game, not a really pretty movie.

[Inf^Shini]

The reasons I left it on the shelf-
720p only as above poster said. My TV only has 480p and 1080i. I won't buy a completely brand new TV just for one game.

6 hours play time.

My friend at Gamestop let me play it, it's just as choppy as the demo was. It's not tremendously bad, but it's bad enough to make me second guess a $60 game. If a game's only 6 hours long, there's no reason it shouldn't play perfect and crisp.

Two freakin' buttons. When a game has as much attack diversity as Final Fight on arcade from 1988, I really don't know what to expect.

The multi-language and graphics and sound are really good, but I want a game, not a really pretty movie.

I'll probably drop by Planet X and see if they have it running on the PS3 display, I'd like to see how well it plays then before i drop the moola. I gotta be realll stingy with my $$$ :/

[NamelessMC]

I'll probably drop by Planet X and see if they have it running on the PS3 display, I'd like to see how well it plays then before i drop the moola. I gotta be realll stingy with my $$$ :/

Yeah, try it out first, trust me.

Let me put it to you this way:
When I'm running around, instead of seeing a full animation of one leg running out in front of the other, her legs kind of skip that and it goes from one leg being in back to being in front.

And when you pan the view to look from left to right, instead of smoothly going from one side to the other, it kind of hops.

Sometimes when I'm doing those little cutscene mini game things, where you're running from one place to the next, the sound will suddenly cut off, and it won't come back on for about 3-4 seconds. I don't know if it's because the unit at the store was using the regular AV cable instead of optical though.

Over-all, the game seems like a nice "rental" to me and that's why I'm picking it up from Blockbuster tonight.

[Rei no Otaku]

I just finished the first chapter. I'm enjoying it, though I can see how some people wouldn't. But then I LOVE God of War, so this is a nice alternative. Plus Bohan is absolutely hilarious. Great villian. Finally, it has an Italian voice option! Italian is my primary language, and it's really nice to be able to have it as an option in a game.

One thing I don't like is the aftertouch. I'm just not a fan of motion controls. Only Folklore has had me enjoy moving my controller around. I'm just glad that they have the option of turning them off.

[InuFaye]

I loved the game and I dont care that it is 720p only.
I just loved the combat so much in the demo. And never saw any of that crap that namelessMC was talking about.

[NamelessMC]

I loved the game and I dont care that it is 720p only.
I just loved the combat so much in the demo. And never saw any of that crap that namelessMC was talking about.

There's two options here:
Either you're exaggerating or in denial or,
me and the 9 other magazine reviewers that have played the game have broken eyes.

Sorry but I'm going with the latter.

[Rei no Otaku]

Oh I definitely see what Nameless is talking about. I just think you're both exaggerating. That stuff is definitely in there, but I don't think it's anywhere as big of a deal as Nameless makes it out to be.

That being said, I'm known for being forgiving when it comes to games. So take what I say with a grain of salt.

[InuFaye]

I noticed some slight hopping, but never had any sound problems. Maybe you had a shitty unit.

[NamelessMC]

I noticed some slight hopping, but never had any sound problems. Maybe you had a shitty unit.

So now that a person has agreed with me about the frame-rate, you're going to completely pretend you didn't just deny any frame-rate issues at all only 2 posts up?

I'm starting to see a pattern here.

[ighosty]

got it comin from gamefly, will give me something to play next week

[Thomas96]

So now that a person has agreed with me about the frame-rate, you're going to completely pretend you didn't just deny any frame-rate issues at all only 2 posts up?

I'm starting to see a pattern here.


oh yeah there's some hoping during the a cut scene... [edit] some cut scenes.
the gameplay is tight though

[Inf^Shini]

Ok, so everyone who has gotten the chance to dig in a bit, what would Ebert and Roeper give it?

[Thomas96]

I don't know how 'short' this game is... but if it is really short, its because, they took out the exploration. GOW has you running around looking for keys an relics to open doors, that's where GOW has you spending time. So far this has been all action... and that's not a bad thing.

[Dark Slayer120]

I may pick this up Saturday, is it in stores already? I don't want to get it at a gamestop so I may get it at Best buy or Walmart. Any chance they already have it?

[NamelessMC]

Ok, so everyone who has gotten the chance to dig in a bit, what would Ebert and Roeper give it?

The story, although washed out and done a million times over, is actually a 9 out of 10 for me in execution and substance. The visuals, character and voice acting are really good. Play the game in Italian, absolutely beautiful dialogue. I wish there would've been a Japanese dialogue option as my gf is native Japanese and I like Japanese voice acting, but Italian is just as good if not maybe better.

The sound, when it's working good, is REALLY good. It really puts your 5.1 to the test. You get a lot of ambients, a lot of good music that adds to the feel of the game. Great vocals along with great music and sound effects. SOMETIMES it's buggy, not a lot but sometimes.

The gameplay is where it gets a mediocre rating from me. It really is a 6 or 7 out of 10 as far as gameplay. Once you get used to it, you could play it blind. The puzzles make you feel like the game thinks you're an idiot. For half the game I was throwing guys in slow motion head first into things like tables and walls.

Since the PS3 has no achievement system and the game is about 5-6 hours long for a mediocre player, there really is no reason to play this game a lot. You play it once, you beat it, hooray you're done.

[Inf^Shini]

I may pick this up Saturday, is it in stores already? I don't want to get it at a gamestop so I may get it at Best buy or Walmart. Any chance they already have it?

It should be out already, I saw it at my local Fry's but had to pass on account of me fixing my car :/

[dallow]

http://static.pici.se/pictures/FvUVKWLVV.jpg

[Rei no Otaku]

Playing as Kai is a lot more fun than I thought it would be! I actually think I prefer her playstyle to Nariko.

[Dark Slayer120]

It should be out already, I saw it at my local Fry's but had to pass on account of me fixing my car :/

I called and asked but they didn't have it. Wtf?:roll:

[Inf^Shini]

I called and asked but they didn't have it. Wtf?:roll:

o_O?

It's even in their ad, they said it would be available Thursday by noon :-s

That's just weird

[Dark Slayer120]

o_O?

It's even in their ad, they said it would be available Thursday by noon :-s

That's just weird

Yeah my Wal-mart sucks cock, that and some (you could tell) blonde hair girl with her "umm and likes" after every fucking thing she said got on my nerves. Here is the convo just for you!!!

Me: Hi, do you guys have Heavenly Sword in for PS3?

Her: Like in the store?

Me: Yes...... O_o

Her: umm like let me check

Me: ok....

2-3 mins later....

Her: Like what was it for again, the Wii?

Me: PS3....

Her: umm hold on

Me: ......

Another minute or two passes

Her: Umm what was the name of the game again?

Me: Heavenly Sword

Her: Like okay I thought you said Sky (Laughs)

Me: Wtf....

2-3 more minutes pass

Her: Ummm like sorry we don't have that in yet, ummm possible next week?

Me: LIKE OKAY!

*Hangs up*

[Inf^Shini]

Yeah my Wal-mart sucks cock, that and some (you could tell) blonde hair girl with her "umm and likes" after every fucking thing she said got on my nerves. Here is the convo just for you!!!

Me: Hi, do you guys have Heavenly Sword in for PS3?

Her: Like in the store?

Me: Yes...... O_o

Her: umm like let me check

Me: ok....

2-3 mins later....

Her: Like what was it for again, the Wii?

Me: PS3....

Her: umm hold on

Me: ......

Another minute or two passes

Her: Umm what was the name of the game again?

Me: Heavenly Sword

Her: Like okay I thought you said Sky (Laughs)

Me: Wtf....

2-3 more minutes pass

Her: Ummm like sorry we don't have that in yet, ummm possible next week?

Me: LIKE OKAY!

*Hangs up*

Like...OMG! She has noooo clue what you were saaayiiiiinnngg x_X

I hate it when the person I have to talk to is that kind of employee, it's even worse when it's in person (since you can hang up on em' on the phone :D )

Reminds me of a girl in my speech class who kepy saying "Pretty Much" after pretty much all of her sentences....pretty much. You get the idea :twoguns:

[Dark Slayer120]

Like...OMG! She has noooo clue what you were saaayiiiiinnngg x_X

I hate it when the person I have to talk to is that kind of employee, it's even worse when it's in person (since you can hang up on em' on the phone :D )

Reminds me of a girl in my speech class who kepy saying "Pretty Much" after pretty much all of her sentences....pretty much. You get the idea :twoguns:

Yeah I feel you man, that would annoy the fuck out of me too. I called Game stop and of course they have it in but FUCK do I hate to make a 45min drive on my day off from work for a change. It's the furthest of all my "gaming stores" which none of them have it in yet for some fucking reason. Wal-mart, Best buy, Game crazy, Target none. Ugh This game better blow me away or I am going to be pissed I wasted my time and gas, and dealing with crowds of people and damn game stop employees. Haha also what was funny when I asked the dude if it was in he said we have so and so copies in and then he said "You do know this is for PS3 right"? I was like Uhh yeah buddy lol. :roll:

[Inf^Shini]

Yeah I feel you man, that would annoy the fuck out of me too. I called Game stop and of course they have it in but FUCK do I hate to make a 45min drive on my day off from work for a change. It's the furthest of all my "gaming stores" which none of them have it in yet for some fucking reason. Wal-mart, Best buy, Game crazy, Target none. Ugh This game better blow me away or I am going to be pissed I wasted my time and gas, and dealing with crowds of people and damn game stop employees. Haha also what was funny when I asked the dude if it was in he said we have so and so copies in and then he said "You do know this is for PS3 right"? I was like Uhh yeah buddy lol. :roll:

Pfffttt, go figure huh?

lol, what kind of a question is that?!?

I have yet to get the game, and it was one I was looking forward to. After buying GRAW 2, Warhawk, and a couple BD movies, I have to lay off buying this one for awhile. Let me know if you like it.

Btw, you should pick up Warhawk and join up in the CAG clans, the game is hella fun :D

[Dark Slayer120]

Pfffttt, go figure huh?

lol, what kind of a question is that?!?

I have yet to get the game, and it was one I was looking forward to. After buying GRAW 2, Warhawk, and a couple BD movies, I have to lay off buying this one for awhile. Let me know if you like it.

Btw, you should pick up Warhawk and join up in the CAG clans, the game is hella fun :D
Yeah, he seemed like a fanboy by that question. I'll let you know how it is man, this is one game I am actually going to play and not just collect keep it sealed and move along lol. I plan on getting Warhawk but it probably wont be for awhile since there are tons of games coming out that I want more first. ;) Anyway I am off to call my girl and see if she wants to ride along, that might takes 20mins as it is, once you're on the phone with her it's like Bah GAWD MY EAR MY EAR IT FELL OFF. Lol but seriously your ears are really red since she likes to talk on the phone for hrs, and I just sit and play games and go Yep, uhhuh no, uh huh, you know I love you, OMG did you see that I shot his headoff *click* Wtf? Awesome!

:rofl:

True story.....