|
Vicarious Visions’ second handheld Spider-Man 2 game in four months arrives. Now, that may seem like I’m taking a knock at Spider-Man 2’s PSP rendition, but I’m really not. It’s more of a testament to Vicarious Visions’ development prowess. All in all, though, Spider-Man 2 for PSP is the fourth unique (as in new levels, voice overs, and more) portable Spider-Man 2 game. Although GBA, N-Gage, and Nintendo DS versions have preceded it, the PSP version is certainly the best done.
Once again you control Peter Parker as he goes through the movie’s storyline, while experiencing a number of game-only story bits to expand the length. The game doesn’t have the free-roaming aspect of the console versions. Instead, you’ll find nearly 20 levels (both of the indoor and outdoor varieties) that are more similar to the first Spider-Man movie game. Of course, at the end, you’ll have the monumental battle against Doc Ock.
Control in the game takes a bit of getting used to. The PSP’s analog nub does a good job at keeping up with the action, partly because Spider-Man’s actions don’t require incredibly precise movement. The D-Pad is used to control the camera, although you’ll rarely use it since the camera behaves for the most part. You can easily lock onto enemies and execute the variety of attacks that millions of gamers are already familiar with thanks to the console versions. This includes a number of punches (and kicks) and web-based attacks (like the web cocoon). Frequent jumping, building climbing, web-zipping and web-slinging can also be found.
Much like the console versions, the PSP game lets you earn points to upgrade Spider-Man. You can outfit him with a few new combos along the way. You can also increase stats, most notably health and strength.
The game’s visuals are amazing. The environments are respectable, and they have new PSP shine to them, which is nice. Spider-Man’s character model, however, steals the show. He is incredibly well-rendered and includes beautifully fluid animations—truly a few levels above even the incredible animation found in the Nintendo DS version of the game. The bosses feature a similar attention to detail, although the more standard enemies are rather bland. The particle effects and lighting that the game pulls off, while maintaining a great frame-rate, are exciting. Unfortunately, a few camera problems mar the otherwise wonderful visuals.
The game’s audio is impressive, as well. The music fits the action well, as expected, and the sound effects are adequate. The cast of the movie, including Tobey Maguire and Kirsten Dunst, return for this handheld version. They even have a few lines not included in the console version of the game.
Spider-Man 2 is an excellent launch title for the PSP. This is certainly one of the best games to show off the graphical competence of the new handheld, and one that will quickly hook people. Even though you can’t freely walk around in a recreated Columbia University (like the console games), Spider-Man 2 for the PSP is recommended. Be warned though: the game can be completed in around five hours (and I was taking my time). While not lengthy, Spider-Man 2 does provide ample entertainment throughout its duration. -- Jose Liz, PGNx Media
---- Mar 24, 2005
|
