Hands of Fate 2 (HoF2) is a great break from the monotony of generic titles that are released so often. I had seen a trailer for the original Hands of Fate awhile back, but missed the opportunity to play it. Now that the sequel is here, I took the plunge and am very pleased with how the game plays. It is advisable to understand that this isn't a Dungeons and Dragons card game nor is it a fighting game - it's both. In fact, it is a fusion of a board game (think 'Talisman'), a card game (Dungeons and Dragons), and a RPG adventure fighting game (any beat 'em up-style game). I was amazed that an original game could be released that actually contained various elements that I wanted in a piece of interactive entertainment. I actually dislike card video games, but HoF2 merges card playing, board games, and adventure fighting games in to a solid game. Pros: + Decent visuals; + Soothing soundtrack; + Great challenge in both the card side and the fighting side; + Good voice acting; + Different ways to play and new plathroughs may vary; and + Fluid combat. Cons: - No co-operative play or multiplayer; - Missing Mini games or other modes outside of the main story/quest mode. Some people may find the game decent, while others may feel that it's underwhelming; however, I feel that it blends several styles of games perfectly - something other developers fail to achieve, or even attempt. The game is a breath of fresh air, and I am really enjoying it. I recommend it if you have the coin. Cheers!
I'm biased as I grew up with this game of the Sega Master System (SMS), but besides my subjective view, it is a great game. There has been so much love and attention to detail in this remake, which is excellent, because it shows the creators really wanted to remake it well; and they did that masterfully. Pros: * Amazing artwork that really encapsulates the wonderment of the original game; * Beautiful soundtrack that adds a peaceful feel; * Fluid gameplay with nice secrets; * The ability to play the original retro game (visuals) with the original soundtrack, or you can mix it up. * The ability to use your passwords from the original SMS version; * Bonus artworks; and * Minor tweaks and improvements to the menu and stores. Cons: * None; it can't be a five-star rating of there are cons :) If you have played the original, or you feel you want to experience a classic platformer with minor RPG elements, then I recommend this gem. Some may find it underwhelming as the visuals are basically a re-skin of the original game, but I really like Wonderboy III: The Dragon's Trap, so this is perfect for me. Obviously, it's not the greatest game of all time (that goes to Spellcaster, Psycho Fox, Deus Ex (or insert other old game here), but I feel this is a great game. I'm sure if you purchase it, then you'll have a lot of fun. Cheers!
Pros Visually pleasing Rewards exploration Ability to purchase items off a shopkeeper Co-operative play Daily challenges Ghost appears to stop you collecting everything Cons Shopkeeper can attack you even if it isn’t directly harmed by Spelunky Camera doesn’t follow both players in co-op Ghost denies the player the opportunity to explore No levelling up ability to strengthen character Tedious Spelunky offers the player the chance to play a retro-themed platformer with rogue-like features. It is punishing to the extent that if you do not feel like replaying the same first stages repeatedly, then you'll become frustrated and leave the game. The game also relies upon the notion that replaying a stage isn't a chore, but rather a back-handed reward due to the procedurally generated levels. Whilst a decent addition, the stages change so much so, that you are unable to construct an action plan that assists you in bettering the stage on the next attempt. I’m not a glutton for punishment, nor do I surrender if I find a game too difficult. However, the game is so unforgiving that it doesn’t feel like a game, but rather a lesson in obedience or stubbornness. Spelunky isn’t the most difficult title around, in fact it is far from it, but I found there to be more frantic movement and death then actual playtime. Spelunky HD is for a specific player who might enjoy repetition and/or doesn’t mind constant death, but I believe this game is simply unfair. Recommendations Implement an explorer mode with 40-80% fewer items and less gold to encourage exploration. Have an option to turn off the shopkeeper. During co-op mode, if a player goes off screen automatically have the game become split-screen. Alternatively, have a split-screen mode. Conclusion The game is rather cheap and unforgiving, rather than meticulously constructed in its design. Personally, I prefer games like Alex Kidd or Hotline Miami; games which reward diligence, and don't punish the player. 4/10
