Muramasa: The Demon Blade (Vanillaware) - Out now

[Dr Mario Kart]

Also known as: Oboro Muramasa Youtonden

Developer: Vanillaware
Publisher: Ignition Entertainment
Release Date: Sept 5 (Gamestop), Sept 8 (everywhere else?)
MSRP: $49.99
Amazon Link (http://www.amazon.com/Muramasa-Demon-Blade-Nintendo-Wii/dp/B001HB7K6I/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=videogames&qid=1235940637&sr=1-1)

Trailer:
http://www.gametrailers.com/player/45205.html

- The boy, Kisuke, is a fugitive ninja which lost his memories, to the point that he couldn't even remember why he was being chased after. The only thing he is sure of, is that he is now motivated by an intense desire to pursue and find a certain "katana", even if this means fighting for that.

- The girl, Momohime, is a pure and beautiful princess which was one day possessed by an evil spirit. This tragedy led her to flee her castle, and to vanish...

- You can use two types of katana : the regular, long sword, and the bigger sword. The regular swords excel in 1-on-1 and aerial battles, while the bigger, more powerful swords are better suited to take care of multiple enemies.The proper use of weapons depending on the situation is a key element of the battles.
It's said that the battles are not just about blowing off enemies, as there are many strategic elements to them.

- You can perform defensive, as well as evasive moves, at the cost of a depleting soul gauge. When the gauge reachs zero, your weapon breaks, considerably reducing your attack power (you'll then have to switch your sword).

- You can equip up to 3 katanas. After a certain time has elapsed, you're able to use one of your weapon's special power ("iai kiri"). To do that, just switch to it, and it will be unleashed automatically. Switching your weapons strategically is actually a key element.

- As you collect more and more katanas, you'll find out that each of them has a different secret skill concealed within it (i.e : some spinning move, lightning-quick jabs, etc)

- That game takes place on the Genroku era's Honshuu. You're free to start the game with any of the two characters. If you choose Kisuke, you start from the West side of the map. Alternatively, if you choose Momohime, you start from the East side. From then the story of both characters branch out independently.

- On your quest, you'll be able to meet various characters, visit some villages and cities where you'll be able to shop, eat, and restore yourself, and experience many events.

-the development team actually invested a lot of time and effort into the animations which are played when you eat the various meals at the restaurants, so they hope you'll enjoy them. :hot:

- You'll be able to travel long distance in a short time thanks to boats and other vehicles, though you'll have to pay for these services. You must be careful though, as you could have a few surprises during your trips...

- the preorder bonus will consist of a 2 meters long, reversible folding screen with artworks printed on it.

New Pics:
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152044_0_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152044_1_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152044_2_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152044_3_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152045_4_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152045_5_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152045_6_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152045_7_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152045_8_big.jpg

Characters:
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152045_9_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152045_10_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152046_11_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152046_12_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152046_13_big.jpg
Enemies:
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152046_14_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152046_15_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152046_16_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152046_17_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152047_18_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152047_19_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152047_20_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152047_21_big.jpg


(http://www.gamekyo.com/newsfr29225_oboro-muramasa-youtouden-nouvelles-images.html)

[tiredfornow]

yo yo, that video is not available anymore.

like... its DELETED!
---
The screens look :drool: though. Lovin' the art style.

[The Crotch]

Yes. Yes. Yesyesyesyesyesyes.

Yes.

[Dead of Knight]

Hot.

[crystalklear64]

Saw the preview in the montage video and thought, oh awesome, a DS game that looks like a decent action sidescroller.

So whats the deal, is it Wiiware or what?

[Dr Mario Kart]

...

They made Odin Sphere, which is 3 gigs if you copy it to a hard drive using HDLoader.

[The Crotch]

... and had some criminal load times...

[j.elles]

PS2 procesor 294.912 MHz
Wii Procesor 729 Mhz

Plus the graphics procesor is also about the same in more power.

So I think this game will be much smoother. Hell i'd like to see a port of Odin Sphere personally that is optimized for Wii because of the better framerate that would happen.

[Halo05]

I'm going to assign a preemptive "fuck you" to Nintendo for including region locks on the Wii and possibly preventing me from playing this.

If this comes out in the US I'll rescind my fury.

[madara]

Its announced for the US, it has a publisher and a feature in the current NP issue out there. My most anticipated wi game by far! Since Nintendo will not give me a 2D console Metroid or 2D Zelda 2 like adventure at least we have a Vanillaware out there.

[Strell]

So whats the deal, is it Wiiware or what?

Seriously, this attitude is getting old.

[pete5883]

Looks fawkin' sweet.

... and had some criminal load times...
Did you actually play the game? There was one store that actually had a long load time, everything else was erroneously reported by reviewers who were playing non-retail code.

[The Crotch]

That fuckin' rabbit village, man. Fuck that place. Pooka bastards.

[Halo05]

Its announced for the US, it has a publisher and a feature in the current NP issue out there. My most anticipated wi game by far! Since Nintendo will not give me a 2D console Metroid or 2D Zelda 2 like adventure at least we have a Vanillaware out there.

:whee::whee::whee:

[The Crotch]

Alright, that's it, I'm pulling the PS2 out of storage.

And by storage, I mean the bottom of a huge-ass pile of stuff sitting on the desk in my bedroom.

[pete5883]

Ok, maybe the restaurant and the rabbit village? So 1 room and 1 town?

[Dr Mario Kart]

I played the whole thing on an HDLoader so I was getting 2-3x load times and I recognized the situation was pretty bad. I tried it briefly without and I didnt last 10 minutes before switching back. The basic loading the next battle sequence was pretty long.

Then again most of my gaming is Nintendo based and they are insane about keeping their load times short. I dont know what other people find acceptable.

Strangely enough, the massive framerate spikes during boss battles in particular and busier enemy encounters in general didnt phase me as much as I thought. I just tuned it out eventually.

[Strell]

Hoo. TC, you tried Persona 3? The game is nothing but load times. The load times have load times.

If Micheal Bay directed a game, he would fill it with load times, because he thinks those make for good gameplay. Load times within load times. Load times that knock buildings over and as motorcycles soar through the air. Load times from the left, load times from the right. Load times from hell.

[pete5883]

I played the whole thing on an HDLoader so I was getting 2-3x load times and I recognized the situation was pretty bad. I tried it briefly without and I didnt last 10 minutes before switching back. The basic loading the next battle sequence was pretty long.
For your average battle screen, it was less than 5 seconds.

[RAMSTORIA]

yes please

[The Crotch]

Ok, maybe the restaurant and the rabbit village? So 1 room and 1 town?What can I say? Maybe I got the PS2 from Hell. Maybe you got lucky. Now, it's not every single screen, but it's sure as hell there. And thanks to this frigging thread/that video with the 1.5 second clip of the new game, I'm playing Odin Sphere right now.

And the slowdown never really bothers me. Y'know how there's that brief pause in Zelda games when you hit an enemy? Kinda like that, only totally unintentional.

[Rusty Ghia]

While it certainly looks beautiful, how will it play? It seems to me that Vanillaware spent too much time on Odin Sphere's visuals and not enough on the actual game. Don't get me wrong, it's fun enough, but it does get repetitive.

[Strell]

While it certainly looks beautiful, how will it play? It seems to me that Vanillaware spent too much time on Odin Sphere's visuals and not enough on the actual game. Don't get me wrong, it's fun enough, but it does get repetitive.

Well I don't see mini-globe maps on the HUD anywhere. So that makes this game already ten thousand times better than Odin Sphere.

[j.elles]

What can I say? Maybe I got the PS2 from Hell. Maybe you got lucky. Now, it's not every single screen, but it's sure as hell there. And thanks to this frigging thread/that video with the 1.5 second clip of the new game, I'm playing Odin Sphere right now.

And the slowdown never really bothers me. Y'know how there's that brief pause in Zelda games when you hit an enemy? Kinda like that, only totally unintentional.

I know later PS2's had better CD drives, and a little more RAM or something. That's why I sold my old PS2 and got another model awhile back. I think some PS2 slim's aren't compatible with at least two of my games so that's why I never got that as well. PS2 models are a little strange.

[Snake2715]

hyped for this for sure.

[j.elles]

Gonintendo had some new pictures posted yesterday. Here they are.
http://www.gpara.com/files/contents/p_l1223300906.jpg

http://www.gpara.com/files/contents/c_l1223300906_0.jpghttp://www.gpara.com/files/contents/c_l1223300906_1.jpg

http://www.gpara.com/files/contents/c_l1223300906_5.jpg

http://www.gpara.com/files/contents/c_l1223300906_6.jpg

http://www.gpara.com/files/contents/c_l1223300906_10.jpg

http://www.gpara.com/files/contents/c_l1223300906_11.jpg

[theflicker]

Wow. This game sure is right pretty. But how will this work? WiiWare? We all know 2D games are not viable at retail and could probably fit on a floppy, lacking that 3rd dimension after all.

SOME METRICS:
N64 Games: 3D, 1000 points
SNES Games: ~2D, 800 points

Therefore this game shouldn't cost any more than 800 points. I'm not even going to bother converting that to USD.

Seriously though, WOW. I've heard all about Odin Sphere and now I think I have to get it if it looks like this. Not too big on RPGs though . . .

Y'know what would be badass? If they made it co-op and we had the prettiest Gunstar Heroes/Metal Slug Ninjas ever.

[Dr Mario Kart]

Odin Sphere is a 3 gig 2D PS2 game.

The DS has plenty of 2D games at retail.

This game will barely be able to fit on a single layer dvd.

[The Crotch]

Wow. This game sure is right pretty. But how will this work? WiiWare? We all know 2D games are not viable at retail and could probably fit on a floppy, lacking that 3rd dimension after all.

SOME METRICS:
N64 Games: 3D, 1000 points
SNES Games: ~2D, 800 points

Therefore this game shouldn't cost any more than 800 points.You're, um. You're joking, right?

[theflicker]

Better head this off at the pass.

Yeah I'm joking. I saw the same logic being applied to Wario Land: Shake It!, which was inappropriate there too, and actually read some of it on the first page of this thread regarding this title.

[Dr Mario Kart]

This game may have an uphill struggle, sales wise. Odin Sphere has exceeded 100k in the US, but on a PS2 install base that is still vastly higher than what the Wii will have when this hits.

$50 is also a lot to ask for what many people see as a dying genre or not somehow *worth* as much as a 3d game.

[flybrione]

Man I am really looking forward to this. What a fantastic looking game.

[squid]

Finally, something to dig my Wii out of the closet for.

[crystalklear64]

$50 is also a lot to ask for what many people see as a dying genre or not somehow *worth* as much as a 3d game.
These games are great and have their place in the handheld/PC market, I just expect more on the full fledged console.

[Dr Mario Kart]

How is it less though? You translate the same gameplay into 3D and suddenly its more of a game?

[crystalklear64]

One thing the comes to mind immediately is the added freedom of movement and all the options that become available with the extra movement planes. Suddenly, instead of only having to worry about programming for 2 axis, you now of the added work of that 3rd one and all the additional gameplay options/issues that 3D offers. The 2D game is more simple in comparison.

[Dr Mario Kart]

a) complexity does not equal depth
b) added freedom does not equate with *more* game. Sometimes less is more.

[j.elles]

Don't even entertain someone who is never going to agree with you Dr Mario Kart.

[Dr Mario Kart]

Actually, good 2D sprite work is now MORE expensive and involved than making 3d models.

[crystalklear64]

Don't even entertain someone who is never going to agree with you Dr Mario Kart.
Future leader right here.

a) complexity does not equal depth
b) added freedom does not equate with *more* game. Sometimes less is more.
I do not understand how depth does not equal complexity. Please explain/provide example.

And I think that giving the player more options to do.. whatever does mean more game.

[The Crotch]

I do not understand how depth does not equal complexity. Please explain/provide example.

And I think that giving the player more options to do.. whatever does mean more game.
Lemme take a stab. Art Style: Orbient. You have two buttons. One increases gravity, one reverses gravity. Low complexity, but there is a lot of depth there (you ever try to orbit a black hole?). Adding more complex controls would just fuck that up.

EDIT: And you put that in 3d an' all you get is a clusterfuck, let me inform.

[Kaijufan]

Man this game is beautiful. I've never even seen a screenshot of Odin Sphere, but now I'm seriously considering buying it after seeing screenshots and videos of this game.


Better head this off at the pass.

Yeah I'm joking. I saw the same logic being applied to Wario Land: Shake It!, which was inappropriate there too, and actually read some of it on the first page of this thread regarding this title.
For me personally the graphics weren't the problem with Wario Land (which looked beautiful) but the short length. I just can't go throwing around money at every game that comes out, and from reviews that said it was only around 5 hours I just can't justify spending $50 on it. When it hits $30 I'll be happy to buy it.

[crystalklear64]

Lemme take a stab. Art Style: Orbient. You have two buttons. One increases gravity, one reverses gravity. Low complexity, but there is a lot of depth there (you ever try to orbit a black hole?). Adding more complex controls would just fuck that up.
Then that is just a matter of defining things differently. I would say that the interaction with gravity is complex. Adding more options, perhaps a clear/reset gravity button, would provide more depth/complexity as it would give the player more options.

[The Crotch]

Clear/reset gravity? Um... you mean, like, "letting go of the fucking button"?

[crystalklear64]

Beats me, I've never played the game.

How about the ability to change the gravity for a certain section of the screen only by holding down a trigger button and pointing the Wiimote at the section you want to target as you manipulate gravity? Keeps the gameplay idea the same while opening up so many more possibilities/level types for the player.

[Dr Mario Kart]

I dont think there is a particular example that would make sense to you. I consider it a basic truth, which is why we fundamentally disagree that 3D is more than 2D. With respect to 2D vs 3D, the 3D incarnations are almost always completely different games. Take a 2D run and gunner like Contra or Gunstar Heroes. Making it 3D gives you a new genre entirely. The 3d Contras, or something like DMC or Gungrave are not run and gunners.

Adding complexity often times is adding convolution, not depth. The Smash Brothers games have the least amount of moves in any fighter, yet it is exactly that which allows it to be a deep game. The emphasis is now more on spacing, frames and mindgames, rather than individual string mixups.

This was a parody that PA did regarding this exact topic:
http://www.penny-arcade.com/images/2007/20070608.jpg

This is complexity. It is also convoluted. It is not depth.

Giving the player more options absolutely does not mean you are giving them more game. Apparently it has succeeded in presenting that illusion though.

Keeping things streamlined allows the player to actually think about and play the damn game. The real issue is whether or not the game is designed well.

[The Crotch]

Beats me, I've never played the game.

How about the ability to change the gravity for a certain section of the screen only by holding down a trigger button and pointing the Wiimote at the section you want to target as you manipulate gravity? Keeps the gameplay idea the same while opening up so many more possibilities/level types for the player.
Nope. That would make things way too easy.

[crystalklear64]

That diagram presents something else though. Fire is the right trigger, move is the left analog stick, and aim is the right analog stick. If you want simple, you've got it right there. All those other options are available for those who want to either play differently, or work those buttons into their game style. Much like fighting games. You can probably win fighting games by button mashing at first, then learning a special move or two to add to beat people with greater success, then adding more moves that fit a situation etc.

I think we could both offer up examples for this either way, but let me stop it here and say that I do not think that just making a game 3D makes it better or makes it worth the full retail price of the standard game for a system.

What I think makes a game worth the "full price" is a reasonable play time with genuinely fun gameplay, a well thought out story/backstory/lore (including full voice overs/cutscenes/whatever the dev's need to do to present the story best as possible in the context of the game), and as much freedom as possible within the constraints of the game's core mechanics.

I couldn't care less about 2D vs. 3D, but in general 3D games seem to offer the whole package over the 2D games available. When a 2D game comes out that looks like it offers all those things, great. I think some genres are better in 2D. Based on the information out right now on this game, Muramasa does not appear to be one of those games.


Nope. That would make things way too easy.
Then you come up with an example that works and argue with yourself as though it were me. My point is clear enough. There is always something in a game that you can say, this is neat, but I wish it had X or I wish I could do Y. Adding that to the game would add complexity/more to do/depth.

[The Crotch]

My point is clear enough.Yes, I think I've got your point. It's how you're going about proving it that's the problem. There is always something in a game that you can say, this is neat, but I wish it had X or I wish I could do Y.
... except, apparently, the example that I gave. Admittedly, it would have been fairer for me to pick a game that you had played, but hey, you should play the damn game anyway. Took me a little while to get into it, but it's definitely worth the points.

[Strell]

Why do people suddenly equate simple controls to bad gameplay these days?

[crystalklear64]

Yes, I think I've got your point. It's how you're going about proving it that's the problem.
... except, apparently, the example that I gave.
Well how do I know? Again I haven't played it. Maybe you think it'd be too easy like that, maybe you're one of those sneaky canadian truth benders. I'm just giving you the b of d since I don't know.

[The Crotch]

$6 to try an' prove me wrong. Hell, I think points are 30% off at American TRUs - $4.20!

Now myself, I usually go for the complex controls. Cram as many fuckers as you can on to a controller. I wish the nunchuk had another button or two on the back. But sometimes, it just ain't needed.

[Strell]

What I think makes a game worth the "full price" is a reasonable play time with genuinely fun gameplay, a well thought out story/backstory/lore (including full voice overs/cutscenes/whatever the dev's need to do to present the story best as possible in the context of the game), and as much freedom as possible within the constraints of the game's core mechanics.

I couldn't care less about 2D vs. 3D, but in general 3D games seem to offer the whole package over the 2D games available. When a 2D game comes out that looks like it offers all those things, great. I think some genres are better in 2D. Based on the information out right now on this game, Muramasa does not appear to be one of those games.

You just need to stop talking in this thread.

[crystalklear64]

A worthy contribution to the discussion, no doubt.

[Strell]

A lot more than the nonsense you're talking about, especially when you're doing a bang up job complaining about A) a game you've never played and B) a game we have virtually no information on.

Good advice > dumb words.

[gunm]

Muramasa = Mine.

While not without it's issues, I really enjoyed Odin Sphere, and this one looks just as tasty. Will definitely keep an eye out.

[crystalklear64]

You're right, we have little more than an old gameplay video and some screenshots to go off of. And until we get more information, which I plan to do through several sources including this thread, that is my opinion. Obviously I have some interest in this game, or I wouldn't be posting here at all. But why assume the opposite with the same limited amount of information and think the game will be great and wind up disappointed?

[The Crotch]

But why assume the opposite with the same limited amount of information and think the game will be great and wind up disappointed?Odin Sphere.

Now, if you didn't like that, then by all means, expect very little from this one.

[Strell]

I'm not making any opinion on the game at all at this point, beyond the fact that it looks beautiful and that being 2D doesn't turn off my appeal. I'll up the ante further - show me where I have. One extremely sarcastic remark about Odin Sphere in comparison to this doesn't count. But my attitude of wait-and-see is a lot more even-minded and fair that your stance so far.

I don't buy that "just because I'm in the thread I'm interested" either, when all of your comments have been little more than whining.

[crystalklear64]

Odin Sphere.

Now, if you didn't like that, then by all means, expect very little from this one.
But they are different games. Perhaps they share the same graphic style and 2D setting, but so do many games.

Maybe the company will follow the same trends as their old game, maybe not.

It is another chance for the company to offer the full package.

[theflicker]

Why do people suddenly equate simple controls to bad gameplay these days?

Simple controls = fewer controls = lazy dev

FACT

;)

In the same vein I've read people bitch about MM9 and how if it wasn't developed for Wii we would be getting a super HD MM900x with wifi play and Havok physics and vehicles and 3D and and and . . .

It seems difficult for some gamers to appreciate older, simpler styles of games. I think this is captured in sports games. Each new edition, besides changing rosters, is striving to make the game more complex, more "real".

Why would you ever go backwards with regards to control options or graphics? The only acceptable reasons for this mindset is to a) cut dev costs or b) produce a game for a technically weaker platform. With many writing off the Wii, this means producing a handheld game.

In either case, the feeling is that "the savings should be passed on to us" so these games are valued at $30, which is the price I see quoted as the "sweet spot" for most Wii games (50% of a new 360 or PS3 game, about retail for a DS game).

I think this industry has a tough time separating the technology from the medium. Studios have started to make it their goal to leap across the uncanny valley and the public has come to expect it. Even so, the industry is young and eventually we'll reach some point of diminishing returns on the tech and it becomes more a matter of how we use the tech.

End incoherent babbling.

[crystalklear64]

I'm not making any opinion on the game at all at this point, beyond the fact that it looks beautiful and that being 2D doesn't turn off my appeal. I'll up the ante further - show me where I have. One extremely sarcastic remark about Odin Sphere in comparison to this doesn't count. But my attitude of wait-and-see is a lot more even-minded and fair that your stance so far.

I don't buy that "just because I'm in the thread I'm interested" either, when all of your comments have been little more than whining.
All your comments have been antagonistic and apparently, not pertaining to the game. As you yourself have just said, since you have no opinion on the game, maybe you are the one who needs to stop posting here?

My posts have been of my own opinion and what I feel about this game. My so called whining has as much place in a discussion about the game as the optimism of others.

[The Crotch]

But they are different games. Perhaps they share the same graphic style and 2D setting, but so do many games.
Well, let's put it this way. Say Bungie put out a video for a new game tomorrow that basically looked like "Halo: This Time, Everyone's Asian". Would I be in error if I expected it to play something like Halo?

[crystalklear64]

A comparison like that in my mind would be Stubbs the Zombie vs. Halo 2. They use the same engine and were made by the same people and both games were about killing people/aliens (I think), but the similarities end there. While waiting for Stubbs to come out when limited information was available, knowing that bungie members were making it and it was using the Halo 2 engine, you might think that it'd be similar. Now, I've never actually played either game, but for when I've seen of gameplay videos, they are very different games.

Oh right, and to answer your question, no, I'd think you'd be right to lean more towards the games being similar, but I wouldn't count too heavily on it with some of the things that have happened in the games industry in the past.

[j.elles]

I loved Odin Sphere. If you didn't you have a high chance of not liking this. If you liked it then this is probably on your buy list.


And let me give a complete list of there games as I know and have played them

Princess Crown-Sega Saturn
Odin Sphere-PS2
Grim Grimoire-PS2

I myself like all 3 of those games a whole hell of a lot. If you didn't like any, or one of them then you probably shouldnt get this game. Or wait for reviews. I myself have been a huge fan since I played an import of Princess Crown a friend had.

[The Crotch]

A comparison like that in my mind would be Stubbs the Zombie vs. Halo 2. They use the same engine and were made by the same people and both games were about killing people/aliens (I think), but the similarities end there. While waiting for Stubbs to come out when limited information was available, knowing that bungie members were making it and it was using the Halo 2 engine, you might think that it'd be similar. Now, I've never actually played either game, but for when I've seen of gameplay videos, they are very different games.Not exactly sure how that's a better comparison by any stretch of the imagination. These are shots of Stubbs the Zombie (and I hope I didn't grab any cutscene shots, as I was trying to get generic gameplay stuff): http://image.com.com/gamespot/images/2005/292/reviews/925151_20051020_screen004.jpg
http://image.com.com/gamespot/images/2005/271/reviews/925151_20050929_screen001.jpg

These are shots of Halo 2: http://image.com.com/gamespot/images/2007/100/562116_20070411_screen002.jpg
http://image.com.com/gamespot/images/2004/reviews/562116_20041105_screen073.jpg

Now, these are shots from Muramasa: http://image.com.com/gamespot/images/2007/263/943228_20070921_screen004.jpg
http://www.watch.impress.co.jp/game/docs/20081002/wiiss72.jpg

And finally, Odin Sphere: http://image.com.com/gamespot/images/2007/112/936463_20070423_screen006.jpg
http://image.com.com/gamespot/images/2007/333/936463_20071130_screen003.jpg

[crystalklear64]

?
Those shots provide the perfect comparison imo.

Apart from being 2D, Odin Sphere and Muramasa look hardly anything alike. It looks more like Viewtiful Joe than Odin Sphere to me. Odin Sphere appears to have a leveling system, judging by the top left, of some sort and seems to be set up as a sort of action RPG. Muramasa seems to be less focused on RPG and more on plain 2D scrolling action ala an arcade experience. However, you can still see some similarities such as character design.

Just like Halo 2 and Stubbs, they are both 3D and they appear to be very different. However, you can spot similarities in things such as the environments and textures.

[The Crotch]

So... you can read Japanese now?

[crystalklear64]

Some, but what are you getting at? I can look at pictures and watch gameplay videos that are available.

[Rocko]

Hm.

Loved Odin Sphere, and I like the art style here, but at $50 I think I'll pass for a while. Hopefully it sees a nice drop like Odin Sphere did, since I'd like some games to play on my Wii.

[gunm]

I don't think there was any announcement on a US port, let alone a confirmed price for the US.

If it is $50, hopefully whoever distributes it throws in a soundtrack or other stuff...but maybe not.

[The Crotch]

Some, but what are you getting at? I can look at pictures and watch gameplay videos that are available.
Alright, then. I'd like you to look at the parts I've circled in red and tell me what about them makes you think "Muramasa seems to be less focused on RPG and more on plain 2D scrolling action ala an arcade experience."

http://img56.imageshack.us/img56/2308/muramasackxs8.jpg
Seriously, what is that? Is that wool wrapped around a lump of coal?

[Strell]

All your comments have been antagonistic and apparently, not pertaining to the game.

I'm sorry, I like calling out terrible arguments when I see them. Boohoo.


As you yourself have just said, since you have no opinion on the game, maybe you are the one who needs to stop posting here?

Really? I said I had no opinion?

Choose your words wisely. I said I have none expressed in this thread. There is a huge difference. Having come to see the whinefest this site has become lately - particularly in this forum from a horde of trolls who readily denounce anything on the system yet swagger in their self-assurance that "I really don't own or play that system, really" because they are incapable of seeing those two things form cognitive dissonance - I prefer to keep most of my opinions on the down low, or at least until after I've sampled the game.

You call it semantics, I call it distinction.


My posts have been of my own opinion and what I feel about this game.


And they've been horrible ones that more or less say the game is little more than a downloadable title, an idea itself based on your narrow minded "facts" of 2D versus 3D.


My so called whining has as much place in a discussion about the game as the optimism of others.

At least optimism can be said to be overturned. Pessimism - especially unwrought badly phrased pessimism, trumped up with bad logic and a "I need to be impressed" attitude - is far less credible.

You want to come in and talk about how Odin Sphere was repetitive, or 2D action games aren't your fancy? Fine. But don't come in and start saying gaaaaaaaaaawd I wants it to be teh ten dollars wwware tytoolz cuz me say so.

[The Crotch]

http://ui16.gamespot.com/1583/nuke_2.jpg

No good shots of an SC1 nuke. I think this one looks a little overly dramatic for the situation. Also, I think he hit half his own base with that thing.

[Kaijufan]

I don't think there was any announcement on a US port, let alone a confirmed price for the US.

If it is $50, hopefully whoever distributes it throws in a soundtrack or other stuff...but maybe not.
There is a press release confirming it's coming to the US (http://kotaku.com/5059166/vanillawares-ninja-rpg-is-wii+exclusive-for-north-america), I don't see a price point though.

[Strell]

Oh yeah, TC. That's a dumpling of some kind. I can't tell if you know that or not, given the word "seriously" up there.

Probably points to some kind of inventory/item system.

[crystalklear64]

Alright, then. I'd like you to look at the parts I've circled in red and tell me what about them makes you think "Muramasa seems to be less focused on RPG and more on plain 2D scrolling action ala an arcade experience."

http://img56.imageshack.us/img56/2308/muramasackxs8.jpg
Seriously, what is that? Is that wool wrapped around a lump of coal?
Rice balls have been featured much the same way in the 3D Goemon games as a sort of potion to restore life. That blue bar is probably either magic or a special move bar you fill in some way, taking damage, killing things, whatever. The top left is likely a life bar. A life bar with a numeric value. You can see in other screenshots that those two swords are broken at the top, yet she is using a sword. This could mean that they are either lives remaining, special "wipe the screen" moves remaining, or something else. You might say that they are other swords to switch to, but they are identical, so I don't think it is that.

[gunm]

There is a press release confirming it's coming to the US (http://kotaku.com/5059166/vanillawares-ninja-rpg-is-wii+exclusive-for-north-america), I don't see a price point though.

Kinda wish it was Atlus doing the port--more chance of goodies and extra stuff for the money.

On the other hand, doesn't Marvelous do a lot of "cheapie" titles? Maybe it'll be $40 or less?

[gunm]

Ok, now both of you guys are off-topic. Please take it offline.

[The Crotch]

Rice balls have been featured much the same way in the 3D Goemon games as a sort of potion to restore life. That blue bar is probably either magic or a special move bar you fill in some way, taking damage, killing things, whatever. The top left is likely a life bar. A life bar with a numeric value. You can see in other screenshots that those two swords are broken at the top, yet she is using a sword. This could mean that they are either lives remaining, special "wipe the screen" moves remaining, or something else. You might say that they are other swords to switch to, but they are identical, so I don't think it is that.
Crotch Speculation OVERDRIVE PRIME!!!!

I see the busted swords in another screenshot, but I can see in the screenshot that brought up there that there is some sort of "meter" being filled. Now, the suggestion that it's a special move on top of the other super moves that we're assuming the blue bar is... not particularly appealing, but hey, this is all speculation anyway. So let's go with that.

But let's consider...

http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/977/muramasack2mp9.jpg

If that ain't the character's level - or, if we want to be particularly Odin Sphere-ish, the character's HP's level - then that calls into question my entire ability to speculate about a game based on a couple of screens utilizing a language I do not understand.

...

I think the original point that I was trying to get at here was that all current evidence indicates that yes, this will be quite similar to Odin Sphere. Which I think is on-topic. Or have I wandered in to the OTT again?

[gunm]

Edit: meh, let's just call it an ARPG. :p

[crystalklear64]

Well, it probably wouldn't be character level since it is 0 in most of the screen shots and you usually start at level 1.

[The Crotch]

Do the Japanese use our symbols for their numbers? If so, what's with the sideways "1"?

Besides that, it seems quite obviously tied to the increase in HP.

Gunmp: Odin Sphere was a very action-based, beat-em-up-ish RPG. So I'm really not sure what's being argued here, as CK said that he expected his to be a very... action-based beat-em-up. Or something like that.

[crystalklear64]

Numbers look the same. Not sure which you're talking about, but the "1" looks like it is referring to the numbers of hits like a combo counter in a fighting game or something.

[pete5883]

You have drawn an arrow pointing to the Japanese #1. Or it could just be a dash.

[The Crotch]

1: Why is it attached to the HP bar? And why does its increase correlate to the increase in HP?
2: Why does it have a meter on it, if not to track EXP?
3: http://img291.imageshack.us/img291/6990/muramasack3ag8.jpg

Question: Did you play Odin Sphere?
Bonus Question: Is this stuff bugging the rest of you? I myself like speculating based on early screenshots and consider myself alright at it, but I can stop if this is annoying anyone else that wants to use this thread.

[crystalklear64]

Well what else would we do in this thread but speculate with the info released so far?

[wampa8jedi]

Can't.... wait....

[rjung]

Well what else would we do in this thread but speculate with the info released so far?
Dunno about you, but I'm enjoying people who say stupid things like "3D games seem to offer the whole package over the 2D games"... that's like saying Michael Bay's Transformers is better than Hitchcock's Psycho because it has CGIwhassits. :roll: :booty: ;)

--R.J.

[crystalklear64]

In the case of this game, perhaps it could be the blowjob giving triple A powerhouse that some people here seem to think it will be. Hell, for those people, it could be the shittiest game ever to everyone else, but for them, it's gonna be a masterpiece because they already have it setup in their mind that it will be.

But with so little info being out for the game, and people saying things like, zomg day 1 purchase fo' sho', that's just silly.

Also, funny, but I don't remember wearing special glasses with red and blue lenses for either Psycho or Transformers.

[j.elles]

http://gamekyo.com/images35_4_29225.html

Crazy number of new screenshots. Hopefully some new trailers will come out now that TGS is going on.

[The Crotch]

Wow. I've never seen so many screenshots in a row of people just standing there.

[gunm]

Watch the trailer (thanks JEKKI)! Got dayum, but it's a thing of beauty.

http://www.gametrailers.com/player/41056.html

Did they confirm classic/non-wiimote option? I'd hate to waste that all that beauty with controls that work like ass.

[Dr Mario Kart]

I was waiting for a version that isnt borked before linking it to the OP. Unless its just me, but I was having problems playing it correctly.

I'd say the verdict is in. Its sufficiently similar to Odin Sphere that if you liked/disliked one, it should hold to the other. The levels have a little more to them vertically, and the fighting is a little flashier/quicker, but in the end it is clearly Odin Sphere++. Of course that shouldve also been obvious from just the screenshots.

I hope the CC control scheme doesnt use the right analog stick. I played Odin Sphere with an arcade stick and just missed out on being able to move the map around, since that was the only function of the right analog on the DS2. I might just decide to waggle it though :bouncy:

[pete5883]

I played Odin Sphere with an arcade stick and just missed out on being able to move the map around, since that was the only function of the right analog on the DS2.
I'm afraid of the answer but: why did you play Odin Sphere with an arcade stick?

[crystalklear64]

Looks like they made some improvements to the odin sphere combat, but it still has those pauses that interrupt your play. It seems to be integrated more with the game (used the sword as the select screen) and theres a lot more vertical action like dmk said.

It also looks like they've added some more platforming elements which is a good thing.

Those breaks in gameplay are a major issue for me though and it doesn't look like, so far, they've done enough different.

[evyrew]

New hands on impressions and gameplay footage from TGS.

http://www.1up.com/do/previewPage?cId=3170464


(http://gamevideos.1up.com/video/id/21947)

[crystalklear64]

New hands on impressions and gameplay footage.

http://www.1up.com/do/previewPage?cId=3170464


(http://gamevideos.1up.com/video/id/21947)
"It's difficult to gauge exactly how much these complexities have been toned down, though, as Marvelous reps pointed out that the inventory system and many of Kisuke and Momohime's unique powers weren't available in this TGS version."


:cry:

[The Crotch]

I like breaks in my gameplay, personally. Though I can support the automatic psypher business, 'cause harvesting EXP souls mid-fight was a little on the tricky side.

[Dr Mario Kart]

I'm afraid of the answer but: why did you play Odin Sphere with an arcade stick?
I play as much as possible with a stick. I rather dislike traditional controllers.

[j.elles]

For any game I can I use the Neo Geo Arcade stick 2 for the Wii. So I understand wanting to use an acrade stick. But I have no problem with traditional controllers. I just like using it because I have big hands and find it more comfortable over time.

[j.elles]

7 minutes of footage
http://gonintendo.com/?p=58938

[yukine]

Gorgeous.

[pete5883]

On the Wii, Muramasa: The Demon Blade is sharper and more colorful than Odin Sphere. The combat is also faster and more technical, though not terribly difficult from what I played. The TGS demo did not include any character upgrading or leveling thus it felt purely like an action game. You can switch swords on the fly and chain regular attacks with a variety of gorgeous special moves. Odin Sphere fans will likely prefer the classic controller set-up to the Wii remote, as it allows for more precise control. Simply put, the game is a blast, and the boss battles are epic and fun. Thankfully the game comes out in 2008 in Japan, while my friends in the west will have to wait until an unspecified time in 2009.

Sounds good to me. (http://www.rpgfan.com/news/2008/1458.html)

[Mr. 420]

This along with Madworld are the only wii games that are coming out that I know I am going to buy. I really hope this one turns out to be one of the systems' best. I hope it is a lot harder than nintendo's latest watered down 2-d adventures.

[Antic]

Wow, that looks amazing. I can't wait!

[vherub]

more positive initial impressions:

http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=266124

[crystalklear64]

Sounds more and more like an action game as people are playing it, which would be awesome. But still no word on the inventory system.

[Dr Mario Kart]

http://www.mmv.co.jp/special/game/wii/oboromuramasa/movie/index.html

http://www.happinetonline.com/000001/product/28/4535506300928_500.jpg
http://www.happinetonline.com/gms/images/4535506300928_1.jpg
http://www.happinetonline.com/gms/images/4535506300928_2.jpg
http://www.happinetonline.com/gms/images/4535506300928_3.jpg
http://www.happinetonline.com/gms/images/4535506300928_4.jpg
http://www.happinetonline.com/gms/images/4535506300928_5.jpg
http://www.happinetonline.com/gms/images/4535506300928_6.jpg
http://www.happinetonline.com/gms/images/4535506300928_7.jpg
http://www.happinetonline.com/gms/images/4535506300928_8.jpg
http://www.happinetonline.com/gms/images/4535506300928_9.jpg
http://www.happinetonline.com/gms/images/4535506300928_10.jpg

[Strell]

The chick looks 1000000x more hardcore than the dood.

Also, setting a level on the ocean with that very iconic piece of artwork? I have to give mad, mad props on that.

Hope the game turns out well.

Also, it sounds like the guy says "Mervous" or something at the beginning.

[wii skiier]

Also, setting a level on the ocean with that very iconic piece of artwork? I have to give mad, mad props on that.

I couldn't agree more. This style of art is not even an aesthetic I usually enjoy, but those screens look beautiful.

[gunm]

Wow.

http://www.gametrailers.com/player/45205.html

[Nirvanaguy777]

This game looks promising. The sad thing is that this is one of the only Wii games I can say that about. I wish the Wii would get some more interesting titles.

[Kaijufan]

Those screens are beautiful. This game is easily one of the best looking games on any of the consoles this generation.

[tsmvengy]

Fuck this looks awesome.

[Kayden]

I do not understand how depth does not equal complexity. Please explain/provide example.

And I think that giving the player more options to do.. whatever does mean more game.

StarCraft? It's deep, but it's not complex. Whether you're trying to counter a zerg rush with firebats or taking down carriers with shrouded hydras, it's a simple process with deep motivation.

Odin Sphere was the opposite. The inventory system was the thing of nightmares and why I quit before even finishing the first story. I'm low on health, how do I heal? Well, you have to find a seed, then plant it, then kill someone near it so the seed absorbs the souls, then I have to harvest the fruit, and FINALLY eat it. That is needlessly fucking complex to perform a simple function. It doesn't add depth, only headaches, and unfortunately, this is just the simplest example. It actually got worse the longer you played.

You do not need complexity to offer depth and being complex doesn't necessarily mean something is deep.

"It's difficult to gauge exactly how much these complexities have been toned down, though, as Marvelous reps pointed out that the inventory system and many of Kisuke and Momohime's unique powers weren't available in this TGS version."

:cry:

As you may have gathered, I LOATHED Odin Sphere's inventory system. If they cut it out, or at least stream line it, this will be a beautiful, awesome game.


Ok, now both of you guys are off-topic. Please take it offline.
Yes, I agree; take your internet arguing offline.

[The Crotch]

CK and I do virtually all of our arguing offline. We're like an old married couple.

But hey, I like arguing. It's good for ya. You should try it some time, gun. It's especially handy when the topic is just some videogame - gets ya all the practice of a proper argument without any reason to get all heated up.

[wii skiier]

But hey, I like arguing. It's good for ya. You should try it some time, gun. It's especially handy when the topic is just some videogame - gets ya all the practice of a proper argument without any reason to get all heated up.
I disagree. Arguing is not good for you.

[Strell]

I disagree. Arguing is not good for you.

And that's where you're WRONG.

[Kayden]

Why are mommy and daddy fighting :cry:

[dmunkee]

Because you cry.

This game looks awesome, by the way.

[Dr Mario Kart]

Famitsu Article (http://www.famitsu.com/sp/090213_oboro_muramasa/) (copy and paste URL, dont click):

Key points translated:
- The boy, Kisuke, is a fugitive ninja which lost his memories, to the point that he couldn't even remember why he was being chased after. The only thing he is sure of, is that he is now motivated by an intense desire to pursue and find a certain "katana", even if this means fighting for that.

- The girl, Momohime, is a pure and beautiful princess which was one day possessed by an evil spirit. This tragedy led her to flee her castle, and to vanish...

- You can use two types of katana : the regular, long sword, and the bigger sword. The regular swords excel in 1-on-1 and aerial battles, while the bigger, more powerful swords are better suited to take care of multiple enemies.The proper use of weapons depending on the situation is a key element of the battles.
It's said that the battles are not just about blowing off enemies, as there are many strategic elements to them.

- You can perform defensive, as well as evasive moves, at the cost of a depleting soul gauge. When the gauge reachs zero, your weapon breaks, considerably reducing your attack power (you'll then have to switch your sword).

- You can equip up to 3 katanas. After a certain time has elapsed, you're able to use one of your weapon's special power ("iai kiri"). To do that, just switch to it, and it will be unleashed automatically. Switching your weapons strategically is actually a key element.

- As you collect more and more katanas, you'll find out that each of them has a different secret skill concealed within it (i.e : some spinning move, lightning-quick jabs, etc)

- That game takes place on the Genroku era's Honshuu. You're free to start the game with any of the two characters. If you choose Kisuke, you start from the West side of the map. Alternatively, if you choose Momohime, you start from the East side. From then the story of both characters branch out independently.

- On your quest, you'll be able to meet various characters, visit some villages and cities where you'll be able to shop, eat, and restore yourself, and experience many events.

-the development team actually invested a lot of time and effort into the animations which are played when you eat the various meals at the restaurants, so they hope you'll enjoy them. :hot:

- You'll be able to travel long distance in a short time thanks to boats and other vehicles, though you'll have to pay for these services. You must be careful though, as you could have a few surprises during your trips...

- the preorder bonus will consist of a 2 meters long, reversible folding screen with artworks printed on it.

http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152044_0_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152044_1_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152044_2_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152044_3_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152045_4_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152045_5_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152045_6_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152045_7_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152045_8_big.jpg

Characters:
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152045_9_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152045_10_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152046_11_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152046_12_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152046_13_big.jpg
Enemies:
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152046_14_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152046_15_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152046_16_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152046_17_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152047_18_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152047_19_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152047_20_big.jpg
http://www.gamekyo.com/Webmasters/Images/60871520090227_152047_21_big.jpg

[Kayden]

I'm all for reverse cowgirl boss fights.

[crystalklear64]

Sounds better and better.

I'm thinking this'll be the game to get me to turn on my Wii again.

[vherub]

that preorder bonus, like everything I've read so far, sounds awesome

[LostRoad]

Any idea if this will support the classic controller? Ether way, day one buy.

[js1]

This game and Mad World are keeping me interested in the Wii for the year.

[Cao Cao]

New info on NeoGAF:
http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=337285&page=16

Famitsu has a new article on the game, in which they point out that you'll be able to choose between two modes to go through the game : the "Musou" mode, which puts an emphasis on the characters evolution and the strategic aspect, and the "Shura" mode, which is purely focused on action, while relying less on skills than the other mode.
More infos from online retailer Game Star :

- More than 30 different types of stages.
- Collect up to 108 different swords, which you can temper at the forges.
- A variety of different ougis (special techs)
- Wiimote + Nunchuk, Classic Controller, and Gamecube controller all supported

http://gmstar.com/wii/oboromuramasa.html

[edit] They also indicate that the Shura/Action Mode relies, in fact, quite a bit on the player skills, and tends to be aimed at experienced action games players. So it could be that it's not that the action mode requires "less skills", but simply that both modes actually require different types of skills, with one being aimed at RPG gamers, and the other one at action gamers.

[The Crotch]

I do declare the above information "Bitchin'!"

[crystalklear64]

Shura.. nice.

[Dr Mario Kart]

New trailer, mostly character introductions

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_1BTdk19eKk

[js1]

Can't fucking wait! Thanks for the trailer DMK!

[Masterkyo]

So far I really like this game hope the review don't turn me down :) Beautiful graphic, musics and 2D action is plus :)

[Dr Mario Kart]

Famitsu review:
9/9/8/8 = 34/40

Pros:

- graphics, art style, & animation
- combat
- music
- full voice acting
- dialogue
- well-balanced difficulty
- gameplay length
- replay value
- short loading times
- collect swords (108 altogether)

Cons:

- repetitive gameplay/ straight forward level design
- no real story climax
- not much difference in the controls of both playble characters
- death counts as a small penalty

Famitsu Reviewer Comments:

"The smooth animation, vibrant colors, and high-quality dialogue is enough to take anyone aback, and the feeling of speed matches the music well."

"It's like you can feel yourself melt into the intricately-drawn and beautiful characters and demons."

"The fighting system, which has you switching between three swords, is clear and easy, absorbing you into play."

"There is character raising and other RPG elements, but largely it's a traditional 2D action game."

"The two heroes control pretty much the same way."

"you're still driven on by things like sword collecting and the visuals of every stage, and "it's been set up to be as fast-paced as possible, down to the incredibly quick load times, so you wind up playing for hours despite yourself."

"The game's a process of repeatedly reaching the finish line and defeating a boss, making me think the game was a little plain."

"You never run into anything particularly tricky during normal play, so the game itself can feel a bit monotonous."

"There is only a small penalty for death, undeniably making the game not that intense an experience."

[Dr Mario Kart]

Opening video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wU17dl12Dv4&fmt=18

Title Screen+ Tutorial
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F0jURlVf86A&fmt=18

Prologue Gameplay
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CfBJR5huhJc&fmt=18

[gunm]

I'm not into repetition so much, but it sounds like there's enough there for me to overcome that obstacle. Plus, I don't put much stock into the things Famitsu reviewers write these days. :p

[wii skiier]

I just played the first level of this game and it looks as good as I had hoped. It's like the best Sega Genesis game ever made. I can see the gameplay getting old after a while, but I'm hoping the later levels get over-the-top enough to offset that (the first level is full of generic black-clad ninjas). My only real complaint so far is that you jump with "up" on the nunchuk stick - it's a little extra movement that can make jumping in a direction inaccurate. If there's not a button available for it, I'd almost prefer a waggle option to initiate the jump. The game is paused right now and even for the pause menu the music is amazing.

[Strell]

It's like the best Sega Genesis game ever made.

I see what you did there. (http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/showthread.php?t=218589)

[wii skiier]

I see what you did there. (http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/showthread.php?t=218589)
Oddly enough, I actually had no idea that news/thread existed. I try not to follow industry news and like to spend the spare time I have talking about the games themselves. This game really is bringing back all my Genesis fantasies in a bunch of ways. Sorry I wasn't offering/mocking biting commentary - reading through the OP of the thread you linked to was enough to remind me of why I avoid industry chatter.

Anyway, the first save screen (maybe they're all like this) uses a really fantastic fish-eye effect that feels disorienting and amazing.

[Strell]

At first I didn't have the thread linked. Then I thought there was a good chance someone wouldn't know what I was talking about, as well as that it could all be coincidence.

So I linked it. Heh.

[gunm]

Boss battle gameplay:

http://www.gametrailers.com/player/47976.html

Forest run:

http://www.gametrailers.com/player/47977.html

Rooftop battle:

http://www.gametrailers.com/player/47978.html

[gunm]

Oni Monk battle gameplay:

http://www.gametrailers.com/player/47979.html

[crystalklear64]

holy fuck yes.

looks like they took it in the right direction after all.

looks like switching swords after your current one breaks unleashes a special.

[Dr Mario Kart]

I liked the Odin Sphere style better, and I expect OS to be better in every area except technical, from gameplay to story.

I still expect it to be good though. I hope their next game is more RPG than action. Maybe an RTS that works better.

['Cube Daddy]

From IGN.com:

XSEED Loses Muramasa: The Demon Blade


The publisher confirms that the stylish 2D action game has been picked up by another publisher.


by Matt Casamassina (http://wii.ign.com/email.html)

http://de.ign.com/event.ng/Type=count&ClientType=2&ASeg=&AMod=&AdID=128632&FlightID=115522&TargetID=6556&EntityDefResetFlag=0&Segments=1,255,264,348,1931,2092,2747,2863,3494,39 75,3982,4170,4178,4602,4603,4608,4611,4678,4723,48 34,4840,4917,4951,5015,5036,5188,5194,5195,5718,59 06,6102,6182,6312,6382,6494,6654,6660,6671,6701,68 86,7390,7396,7752,8305,8587,9208,9598,10327,10568, 10597,10820,11071,11754,12248,13621,14991,15232,16 251,16531,16799&Targets=20176,20446,6556,11060,7012,6781,6505,7538 ,8027,6507,6918,19866,7143,7085,7898,9637,10619,13 523,18228,15209&Values=25,30,50,60,72,81,90,100,110,150,155,226,22 7,236,240,268,745,834,1022,1187,1228,1481,1503,159 1,1822,2721,3259,3543,3887,3932,4056,4295,4630,466 2,4799,5672,6612,6744,8052,8145,8248,8257,8977,897 8,9113,55240,58049,58073,58218,58965,58967,59327,5 9396,59609,59895&RawValues=&random=bravimA,beRzuczejaKgm
April 20, 2009 - Fans eagerly awaiting the American release of Muramasa: The Demon Blade (http://wii.ign.com/objects/828/828151.html) should keep their eyes peeled for some new publishing news in the near future. First, IGN has learned that XSEED Games, formerly set to debut the title stateside, will no longer be handling distribution. The company released a statement to IGN confirming this news this morning.



XSEED Games confirms that it is no longer involved with the North American release of Muramasa: The Demon Blade. XSEED Games and Marvelous had previously announced the game as part of the initial line up between the two publishing partners. We firmly believe in the product and will look forward to seeing it release in North America. We enjoy and respect our relationship with Marvelous, and are committed to working together to deliver an amazing line up of games in the US including the highly anticipated Little King's Story, the epic RPG Arc Rise Fantasia and Suda51's intriguing mystery adventure Flower, Sun, Rain.

IGN expects news about the game's new U.S. publisher soon. Stay tuned.

[Dr Mario Kart]

Worth it if Atlus can take it and add preorder bonuses.

[gunm]

I wish Atlus would pick it up, but it's disappointing to see it get lost in limbo land all of a sudden.

[eugaet]

I'm all for Atlus.

[Cao Cao]

Yeah, I'd imagine that Atlus, NIS, or even Marvelous themselves would be the "mystery" publisher that's localizing it now.

Siliconera (http://www.siliconera.com/2009/04/20/xseed-cut-from-muramasa-the-demon-blade/) has a list of publishers that Marvelous has worked with in the past, all possible candidates:
A new publisher will be announced as early as tomorrow. Aside from working with Xseed, Marvelous’ games have been handled by Atlus, Ignition Entertainment, Natsume, and Ubisoft.

[gaxur]

Somebody at Atlus noticed their wallpapers, and went "oh, yeah, we can swag the shit out of this.". Hopefully. Well, as long as it's still on the same path, I don't really care a ton about who has their name on the box.

[Squarehard]

I hope they can get this out soon here. I wannr playyyyyyyyyyyyyy

[gunm]

I forgot about ubisoft. I have a funny feeling that they are most likely the ones going to do it. Rather have Atlus, but I'll take whatever we can get.

[Masterkyo]

I really wants this game now. I end up paying MSRP for this $ucker :)

[ArthurDigbySellers]

Ignition is picking it up.

http://wii.ign.com/articles/974/974820p1.html

[Cao Cao]

When I saw Siliconera's list, I figured that Ignition was another likely candidate, as they've been steadily increasing their profile with bigger titles like handling the worldwide release of KOF98UM and KOFXII. I can't say whether this will turn out well or not; I guess with any luck, Ignition hopefully learned from their mistakes with Lux-Pain's localization.

[gunm]

I hear KOF98UM turned out pretty well, so I think it'll be ok. Granted, the port was much easier compared to Lux-Pain, but I think Muramasa fits somewhere in the middle of that, as far as translation goes. The other games they've ported like Metal Slug 7, Dokomodake, and Blue Dragon Plus turned out ok, too.

[vherub]

was the lux-pain artbook any good?

[Dead of Knight]

Please don't fuck this up Ignition.

[pete5883]

I don't remember hearing complaints about Blue Dragon +'s translation, but I think Lux-Pain's was supposed to be pretty bad.

[Cao Cao]

http://www.siliconera.com/2009/04/21/mystery-publisher-behind-muramasa-the-demon-blade-revealed/
Along with Shane Bettenhausen's statement, Siliconera brought up a good point about Lux-Pain; Marvelous translated the in-game text themselves, then shopped out the voice dubbing duties to Ignition. That sort of setup would explain why there were places where the voice acting didn't match the text on the screen.

Those worried for the quality of Murarama’s localization after Ignition’s last published game, Lux-Pain, can lay their concerns to rest, claims Ignition’s Shane Bettenhausen. In a subtle comment left on NeoGAF, Mr. Bettenhausen had this to say:

"The Lux-Pain localization situation (that occurred before my time) will have absolutely no impact on Muramasa. I believe that you’ll be pleased with how this one is handled. Cheers…"

By “situation,” we assume Mr. Bettenhausen is subtly referring to the fact that MMV translated Lux-Pain inhouse and left the English voice-over work and publishing duties to Ignition.

[gunm]

More stages/enemies revealed in this preview clip:


http://www.gametrailers.com/player/48398.html

[Ecofreak]

More stages/enemies revealed in this preview clip:


http://www.gametrailers.com/player/48398.html

This is the only game that would convince me boot up my Wii after a ~1+ year hiatus. Looking forward to it!

[Dr Mario Kart]

E3 interview (http://wii.ign.com/articles/991/991960p1.html) with director George Kamitani:

Mostly about the game, but this aside is something I really like:
IGN: So, on the Wii, you can achieve a display resolution that only goes up to a certain point. But other systems offer more power and more resolution, and could potentially make the 2D art look even more beautiful. So why the decision to stick with the Wii when a game like this could maybe look better on, say, the Xbox 360?

Kamitani: That question's been asked many times. It's not that I definitely wanted to do the game for Wii, though I wrote in the original design document that it's for Wii. The reason is that our PS2 know-how could be brought over straight to the Wii. Actually, I made presentations for Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3, but it was just too expensive.

[seanr1221]

Translation: I want to make games for the 360/PS3, but I'm too poor :-[

[dallow]

Their studio is too small, but they seem to keep rolling on poor sales, and different publishers for each game as they're dropped each time. I'm just glad they're able to make this.

Shame though, their game would be gorgeous because 2D especially shines with higher resolution.

[Cao Cao]

It has been confirmed that Muramasa will retain the Japanese voice acting. It is the only voice track that will be available:
http://www.siliconera.com/2009/06/11/ignition-discusses-muramasa-the-demon-blades-localization-only-japanese-voice-acting/

[62t]

Their studio is too small, but they seem to keep rolling on poor sales, and different publishers for each game as they're dropped each time. I'm just glad they're able to make this.

Shame though, their game would be gorgeous because 2D especially shines with higher resolution.

Odin Sphere did really well and became a GH

[Cao Cao]

Odin Sphere did really well and became a GH
Odin Sphere - 149k

It was Atlus' second-best-selling title, with Persona 3 FES (154k) in first place (Combined, P3 and P3FES sold about 234k), though Persona 4 may have already knocked P3FES out of the top position (123k sold as of January).

http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/showthread.php?p=5561736&highlight=odin#post5561736

[dallow]

Then you have to wonder why Atlus didn't continue their partnership with them.

There's a quote from Vanillaware about their art for the game.... ugh, but can't find it.

I did like this, go Shane B!
“For Muramasa we decided to stick with the original Japanese voices and only localize the text,” Shane Bettenhausen, Business Development Director at Ignition, told Siliconera in a post E3 phone interview. “We felt the game was deeply steeped in Japanese tradition, mythology, and culture that trying to dub it, trying to make something more Western is really not a service to the product.”

“Who wants some goofy anime voices in this game?” Bettenhausen joked.



EDIT: Ah, found the other quote:
“When we draw the graphics, we create them in high resolution from the beginning, and then shrink them down to fit the available memory when we convert them into game data.”

[62t]

It could just be Xseed made a better offer than Atlus.

[dallow]

XSEED isn't even publishing this anymore. (and there's no way XSEED could ever make a better offer than Atlus anyway, haha)

MMV in Japan, and Ignition in USA.
This game won't do nearly as well without the Atlus label sadly.

[Cao Cao]

GameStop announced the pre-order bonus for Muramasa:
http://www.gamestop.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=73359
http://www.gamestop.com/gs/images/bonus/230532_bonusLG.jpg

I don't see any "GameStop exclusive" labels, so this bonus might appear at the usual stores (Amazon, GameCrazy).

[KingBroly]

That's pretty cool. I'm still waiting to see how the framerate is. The unstable framerate is the only reason I didn't get Odin Sphere.

[vherub]

nice we also get the preorder.
an early review on rpgfan wasn't terribly kind, but there isn't mention of a slowdown issue

[gunm]

http://www.gametrailers.com/player/52335.html


I read in the newest NP mag that the producer of Odin Sphere was quite embarrassed by the framerate problems in OS, and made it point to address it w/Muramasa. I don't remember that was ever a complaint in the Japan version in the Famitsu reviews and the eurogamer review of the Japan release did not cite any framerate issues either.

Sounds like the main problem with the game was too much backtracking despite relatively short length.

[Rusty Ghia]

Siliconera (http://www.siliconera.com/2009/07/02/marvelous-considering-wii-to-playstation-3xbox-360-ports/) is reporting that Marvelous might be porting Muramasa and other games to the PS3 and Xbox 360. I have no problem with the Wii, but I know that I'd rather have Muramasa in high definition than in standard definition.

[Ryukahn]

This game looks really cool. Will be keeping an eye on it and seeing what reviewers say about length and whatnot. Probably won't pick it up til it's cheap though (assuming I like what I read), can't really afford many games atm.

[Rocko]

I should be in for this.

[mechanicalhenry]

Got a chance to play a bit of the Japanese version and I fell in love with it. The artwork is so beautiful that I could just stare at the screen for hours. =P Now I just gotta hope that the localization is done solidly.

[Dr Mario Kart]

New hands-on preview from IGN with new video clip including a new boss and some bath scene :hot:

http://wii.ign.com/articles/101/1012109p1.html

[Ryukahn]

New hands-on preview from IGN with new video clip including a new boss and some bath scene :hot:

http://wii.ign.com/articles/101/1012109p1.html

Damn, that looks awesome! It looked like they had a few words mixed up for the dialogue though.

[62t]

I hope they will fix up the translation

[vherub]

website updated-
http://www.muramasathedemonblade.com/#/home

also looks like gogamer is the cheapest pre-order option
and the wall scroll says gamestop exclusive on the gamestop page

[Ecofreak]

New Developer Walkthroughs. I really really am tempted to pick this up and support Vanilla Ware. Their work is really breath taking.

http://www.gametrailers.com/player/54401.html
http://www.gametrailers.com/player/54402.html
http://www.gametrailers.com/player/54403.html

[JEKKI]

oh snap! narration by Mango D!!

wtf talking about advanced technics n shyt. lol, I can hear u button mashing!!

stop acting like u kno how to play!!

[rocky435]

Well this is supposedly going to come out tomorrow at gamestop. Since I got my copy reserved there maybe just maybe it and the scroll will be ready and waiting :D.

Everywhere else is 9-8/9-9 so tomorrow will be fun.

http://www.gamestop.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=73359

Currently GS is still listing it as the shipping date of 9-3.

[Dr Mario Kart]

Its very unlikely that Gamestop's date is correct. IgnitionEntertainment's pre-release "get it before you can buy it" party at the Nintendo World Store in New York is on Saturday the 5th. I find that compelling evidence.

[erectiontown]

so i went to my local GS and i asked about the pre-order bonus. the dude checked to see if they were getting any, and lo and behold they already got one (the only one) in, so he gave it to me right then and there. it's pretty slick. now i just need the game!

[Snake2715]

I will go get my preorder in on Thursday at Gamestop for that bonus..

[maximumzero]

Woot! Ships today!

Can't wait to get my pre-order bonus in.

[Snake2715]

yeah i have a feeling these preorder bonuses are going to be few and far between.

[dallow]

No one posted the Nintendo Power review? I don't have a link on me but I read it.
About the only positive they said about the game was the beautiful 2D graphics, but everything else was negative.
And yet, they gave it a pretty good score.
I don't understand.

[erectiontown]

yeah i have a feeling these preorder bonuses are going to be few and far between.
i think you're right. my store got one.

[maximumzero]

Okay so now both the scroll AND the game say backordered.

[vherub]

it's probably backordered because the release date was incorrect, once it passed, title went to backorder status in their system instead of preorder since it releases 9/8

[maximumzero]

That's odd, considering Gamestop sent me this:

http://img196.imageshack.us/img196/4599/datechange.jpg

[Rocko]

Wait, so the game's bad, according to NP?

Not *bad*, but I was under the impression that this was going to be an all-9s type of game. Seems to be getting just alright reviews.

:|

[dallow]

Well, it's a lot like Odin Sphere in the sense that it's just very repetitive. Based on the Japanese reviews I wasn't expecting stellar reviews but at least something more positive than just the graphics.

Here's the summary from NP:

Muramasa: The Demon Blade

Pros
-gorgeous
-individual stories are compelling

Cons
-gameplay not as deep as it should be
-little variety in attacks
-sword’s individual skills aren’t varied much despite there being over 100 of them
-the game ends up promoting button mashing over combos, even on the higher of the two difficulty levels. However you can’t get away with that as much on the unlockable 3rd difficulty level and some side missions.
-the two playable characters control the same and play through the same areas
-plot can be confusing when it throws names at you without context

8.0

[pete5883]

RPGFan certainly didn't think much of it. (http://www.rpgfan.com/reviews/Muramasa_The_Demon_Blade/index.html)

Graphics: 90%
Sound: 85%
Gameplay: 65%
Control: 65%
Story: 80%
Overall: 69%

[Dead of Knight]

FFS it's not an RPG.

[gunm]

Yay, GS.com shipped my order! Both the game and the wall scroll. Probably won't get it until late next week at the earliest, though. :p

I'm not at all concerned about the current reviews, as I read the original Japanese copy ones and figured nothing was going to change in the port.

[KingBroly]

IGN gave it an 8.9

[pete5883]

FFS it's not an RPG.
Isn't it as much of an RPG as Odin Sphere? They gave that:

Graphics: 94%
Sound: 89%
Gameplay: 83%
Control: 87%
Story: 91%
Overall: 92%

Along with their Editor's Choice award.

[trq]

Isn't it as much of an RPG as Odin Sphere?

Nope.

[Dead of Knight]

Odin Sphere isn't an RPG either. Calling these games RPGs is like calling Legend of Legaia a fighting game because you have combos and attack inputs.

[aihuman]

Looks like Dust: An Elysian Tale.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tR7vE6l1MN0

[coolsteel]

Hoping to get my copy today since it shipped from one state over.

[pete5883]

Odin Sphere isn't an RPG either. Calling these games RPGs is like calling Legend of Legaia a fighting game because you have combos and attack inputs.
Admittedly I haven't looked into Muramasa enough to see how similar they are, but at the very least OS is an Action RPG. So if the site covers Kingdom Hearts, Castlevania, etc., then these games certainly qualify.

[gunm]

Muramasa is considered an action RPG, as was Odin Sphere. How much RPG is a discussion best left for another forum topic.

[Dr Mario Kart]

Cleared Momohime (Shura) in 10 hours flat. Going back in for Kisuke, then grinding both for the alternate/real endings.

-Not a very compelling story so far.
-Backtracking like no ones business.
-Sometimes the enemies go off screen, I'm not sure if this is a formatting issue since I'm playing in 4:3

+Arcade Stick support
+Technically solid

Momo - Peach
Hime - Princess

[pete5883]

FFS it's not an RPG.

then grinding both

:-s

[Rocko]

I'm kind of considering returning this game now. I dunno.

[Dr Mario Kart]

Hell, you can gain levels/xp in many shooters nowadays, but they're still shooters.

[handsome_rakshas]

I'm kind of considering returning this game now. I dunno.

Nah man play through it, then sell it to me at half the price! :applause:

[62t]

8 hours and 50 minutes to beat Momohime's story

[Dr Mario Kart]

8 and a half to clear Kisuke. I'm about at 20 hours now. I estimate that I've got 5-10 hours if I want to 100% everything - all swords, all endings.

[Dr Mario Kart]

Probably 2-3 hours away from the last ending.

Anyone have any interesting combos (mostly for strong enemies but not bosses)?

The one I'm working on is some variation of this:

slash x4 until they take air, uppercut, air slash x4 (which brings them down to the ground), ground slash (which relaunches if you're fast), uppercut, air slash x4 (at which point you cannot relaunch). Charge down release slash as they are getting up. If they take every hit of it, it relaunches them so you can start it all over again!

Right now I'm trying to work the dashing air slashes into it. Like upper cut, dash slash, air slash x3, dash slash, air dash x3, etc.

You can stay up there for a really long time if you plan it out.

[yukine]

I just started playing this last night, enjoying it quite a bit. I find the combat fun, and of course the visuals as well as the music to be fantastic.

[Dead of Knight]

I got the game today and I'm very confused. I'm playing on Shura, and I'm finding the game quite easy. The thing that confuses me is that I SUCK ASS at action games. After reading Gamefaqs and hearing how much "harder" Shura is, I actually double checked my game to make sure I wasn't actually playing on Muso. I'm on Act 4 with Momohime. Gamefaqs also claims that the game gets easier as you go along in Shura as you get used to the game. Please, someone tell me I'm not going crazy.

IB"lolgamefaqs"

[BlueLobstah]

I keep seeing this compared to Odin Sphere, are we talking about in style only?

I liked Odin Sphere, or at least the very beginning. I made it through the first two chapters, but by the time I made it to the third chapter, I felt as if the game itself was becoming very, very repetitive. Rehash of exactly the same areas, only with a different character that had to be start over from scratch.

I'm interested in Muramasa, but if it succumbs to the same repetitive feeling of Odin Sphere I'm afraid I will have to pass.

[Snake2715]

hmm.. going to get my preorder today. I have been very busy... if they do not have the preorder bonus... Cancel, Thats all I am going to say.

[62t]

I didnt think Shura is that hard when you are taking advantage of secret arts and items.

It is similar to Odin sphere, but you only get 2 characters. They have their own bosses and weapons. However the play exactly the same (minus different weapons). They go to the same places but the layout is different.

[Dead of Knight]

I hardly ever use Secret Arts though. :/ And I only use recovery items.

[SuperPhillip]

I caved and got it. Will play after the gym.

/liveblog

[Dr Mario Kart]

Completely clear. ~28 hours. Did waste some time though.

[62t]

Is that every mission? Including one that suggest level 92?

[Snake2715]

wow guys..you really are sinking some time into it..

[gunm]

Just got this yesterday w/Wall Scroll from gs.com. I'm afraid to open it, but the scroll looks like it folds out into something larger? I didn't have time to play last night, but maybe tonight...

[Dr Mario Kart]

Is that every mission? Including one that suggest level 92?
I did every dungeon with Momohime but I didnt do them all again with Kisuke. They're the same so I figured I wouldnt bother.

The level 92 one requires that you game the system pretty bad. Once you beat it, you've broken the game because the item you get lets you use Special Arts without using up meter, so you can just win any battle by spamming SAs while being invincible because of both the start up and during the SA you're invulnerable.


Level 99, pre battle cook a shabu shabu, which gives you invicinbility for up to the first 3 waves.

Equipment was:
Oboro Muramasa
Whatever sword has Hornet 3
Whatever sword has Gale 3.
Accessory that regens 2% health.

Items:
- Thing that prevents soul power from going down for a limited time
- Refill soul power (all)
- Refill soul power (one sword)
- pill that refills 1000 with no fullness
- grilled squid (2500 hp/100% full)

I pretty much spammed SA's all the way through until there was one left so I could run around the map until my health recharged (since I didnt bring many health items). I pretty much ran out of everything at the very end but I got lucky and got them both in the corner at the same time and just spammed regular slash'd them to death.

[EXStrike]

So I tried out Shura Mode, and the first boss rocked me, and then dialed down to Musou and had a much easier time :lol:

I'm loving this game already.

[DaddyBoJangles]

Started this game the other day. Switching between kisuke and momohime between acts. Currently on Act 3. I am enjoying the game. I find it to be fun even if it is a little easy its a blast to play.

[bluesyncopate]

Loving this game so far. I'm only four hours into it, but on the "easy" difficulty I'm finding it very fun - not too hard, not too easy.

Because the gameplay doesn't really change much as you move from area to area and gain more blades, Muramasa is better enjoyed in small bursts - not just rushing to the end of the game in a day or two. The art style alone practically begs that you savor this game and not take in too much at once. I think the criticisms of "repetitive" are coming from people who shot through it, marathon-style. (Game reviewers in particular don't really have much choice in the matter.)

I love Odin Sphere like crazy, but the pacing in that game - with all the leveling up and "starting levels over" and so forth - was a little slow for me. And Grim Grimoire is great too, but that's also a slowly-paced strategy game. This is kind of a breath of fresh air, because it's very much an action brawler with leveling-up. Very cool. The bosses are great.

Without its wonderful graphics, Muramasa might not be as enjoyable a game, but in this instance the art style is almost part of the gameplay. It's hard to separate them.

[Dead of Knight]

Thoughts after beating Momohime's story and in the middle of Kisuke's story on Shura (the harder of the 2 initial difficulties):
-Even on Shura, for the most part the game is too easy except for a select few bosses. And I suck at action games.
-The game is wayyyyyy too repetitive. Too few enemy types, and the enemies only come in one type per battle, except for very few battles (ie only ninjas, only trolls, etc). The areas are also too repetitive, and all you're doing is walking around, and fighting an enemy on most maps. There's very little exploration. The repetitiveness of the areas make it so that the nice graphics don't look all that great after you're looking at the same damn backgrounds for the whole game.
-The boss battles are excellent. However, some of them are too easy.
-Apparently the "translation" is borked. For several lines of robust dialogue in spoken Japanese, there are only one or two short sentences actually subbed in English. So much for giving this game a better treatment than Lux Pain. I'd say the only thing they took care to do is to make sure there weren't any ridiculous spelling or grammatical errors. Otherwise, it's an extremely dry and seemingly rushed translation.

That's about all thus far. It was really fun to play for the first few hours, but then it got more and more tiring simply because it's so repetitive and so easy. I'll probably sell it when I beat Kisuke's story. I think people are overlooking the simplicity of the game due to their extreme hard-ons for the graphics, which I didn't think were all that impressive anyway. It's easy to have no slowdown when there's only one enemy type on the screen.

[jh6269]

Got my copy yesterday (Sat.) and really liking the game. The easy setting seems super easy to me. I'm afraid to switch over though...

[jamezuva]

Anyone who preordered from amazon get an email today with a code for a "poster?" I went to the website in the email but didn't see anywhere to input a code.

[Dead of Knight]

Anyone who preordered from amazon get an email today with a code for a "poster?" I went to the website in the email but didn't see anywhere to input a code.

Wait for the site to load. Worked for me.

[Snake2715]

So how are you guys aware there are alternate endings, etc?

I am actually getting some time with this 3.5 hours so far, and am digging it.

I am not however heading off to the path shown on the map, I am exploring around and seeing what else is out there, doing this I seem to come to new enemy types pretty frequently. I am at the end of act 3 with the ninja (forget his name).

The translation is poor, but it gives you the just of the game.

Also for anyone that has beat it, is there enough souls, etc to really unlock all the swords or do you have to go around to the few random battles left on the map and continually replay them to earn enough souls? I will probably not be into doing that.

For me this game is almost like No More Heroes. Most people slammed that game, and for me it was good fun, and I went through 100% of it.

[Dead of Knight]

The Amazon poster came in the mail at my parents' house yesterday. I'm going to see them tomorrow and they'll bring it with them. I send postal service packages to their place because the local usps is total shit and refuses to deliver packages to our apartment complex; they make us pick it up at their PO in the ghetto. Private package carriers do though, so we use them unless we HAVE to use usps for packages.

[wasabi5858]

I was so stupid with the poster code from amazon. I was on a business trip and didn't feel like going through. By the time I got back and check, it was OOS. I had stupidly assumed that my poster would just be waiting .. :P yeah... i was tired.

Anyway, just received an email from amazon yesterday regarding a $10 gift certificate they are depositing into my account for the inconvenience.

I did pick up another copy at gamestop when it had its wall scroll. Wish I also have the poster too.

[Dead of Knight]

I was so stupid with the poster code from amazon. I was on a business trip and didn't feel like going through. By the time I got back and check, it was OOS. I had stupidly assumed that my poster would just be waiting .. :P yeah... i was tired.

Anyway, just received an email from amazon yesterday regarding a $10 gift certificate they are depositing into my account for the inconvenience.

I did pick up another copy at gamestop when it had its wall scroll. Wish I also have the poster too.

Everyone who preordered from Amazon got the $10GC, including people who actually received the poster, like me. :lol: This effectively made the cost of my playing this game $0, since I sold it back on Amazon for about $40 the week after release.

[vherub]

Just finished, well 5 of the 6 endings. About 20 hours all told. Spent most of it on easy and some on hard.
If I played only on hard, I'd guess it would be 10 more hours.
It takes a while to get a hold of how best to use secret arts and items, some of them are pretty awesome against certain bosses.
Also- I never took a ride from the fisherman until very late in the game- only then did I realize it actually does something besides fast travel.

[septiclemon]

Does anyone an any ideas when it'll come out in the UK?

[Neo Queen Serenity]

Does anyone an any ideas when it'll come out in the UK?

November 20

[septiclemon]

November 20
Wow!?

Really? where did you find that?

[septiclemon]

Oh heh, no worries, they mention at GAME.co.uk

But my favourite sites such as GamePlay and The Hut don't even have it listed...

[icedrake523]

I'm thinking of getting this (and RE5) to get the $40 Amazon credit. When using the Classic Controller, can you use the D-pad or do you have to use the analog stick? I don't like having to press up to jump with analog sticks and I prefer to use a d-pad when I can to preserve the analog stick.

[Rig]

I'm actually considering this game paired with Naruto Ultimate Ninja Storm for the Amazon $40 credit. Reading through the "repetitive" posts worry me a bit, as I find it harder and harder for me to play through a game that hints at being repetitive.

(That, and the backlog is already close to ten games...ugh.)

[Dead of Knight]

I'm actually considering this game paired with Naruto Ultimate Ninja Storm for the Amazon $40 credit. Reading through the "repetitive" posts worry me a bit, as I find it harder and harder for me to play through a game that hints at being repetitive.

(That, and the backlog is already close to ten games...ugh.)

This game just doesn't "hint" at repetitiveness, it's the entire game.