Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance

Im surprised this was written off as a spinoff because man this game is great. It has such a great flow in terms of combat and gameplay direction that it really is intoxicating to play. Sure this game reeks from the very early 2010's writing and acting but I can't lie I really had a blast with it most of the time. I think some of the cons for this game mainly derived from the mere fact that the game sucks at giving a good tutorial and dosent really show you how to play properly. I wish there were video visuals or specific tutorials that can highlight specific game mechanics because oh boy did some things feel nearly impossible to pull after a countless attempt against a later boss in the game. Seriously the parrying in this game is really bad and it's a shame cause it's a hack and slash game. Besides that I still stand with what I said earlier. It's really fun when you get the hang of it and just turn your brain off. This game genuinely makes me feel like an insane cyborg ninja who chops up bad guys for justice. 8/10.

Story: As far as Metal Gear games go there has always been some sort of story, usually a convoluted one involving Nukes and Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance (From here on MGR) is no exception to this.Taking place four years after the events of MGS4, the game revolves around Raiden and his return to the battle field as a cyborg ninja. The actual story is as you would expect somewhat convoluted confusing at times, especially on a first play-through, but thats not the problem here. The actual time it takes to finish the story and game is somewhere between five and six hours. This is quite short for a full Metal Gear (From here on MG) game especially when your not skipping cut-scenes.

Characters are introduced very quickly into the story, especially when it comes to the rivals in the game. E.g Two Rivals are introduced right before you fight them, two are seen but not actually met till right before the fight and two are met very early on in the game. Overall this isn't much of an issue as each one gets a cut-scene or two and explains their somewhat forgettable back-story (Not all forgettable) Its when you compare this to previous MG games where we usually meet and learn about rivals before hand, or we at least see and hear them speak. With that in mind the story and its tone and themes still fit in to the MG franchise quite nicely and it works as a MG game no doubt.

Gameplay: This game unlike previous MG games is not exactly about stealth but its more hack and slash, but for any fans of stealth out there, there is stealth in the game. MGR controls quite well and the quick sword movements are quite fluid and the numerous combos you can use depend on your own choice of going simply with Raiden's blade or the secondary weapons which open up some slightly different game-play.

Also included in game-play is the use of quick-time events. A lot of these are mandatory and some can be triggered depending on the moves you choose to use. Thankfully these are mostly used for taking down bosses or getting one up on a larger opponent, tho that is optional and isn't shoved in your face every five seconds. The inclusion of a First person blade mode is also quite a fun and unique feature, but can take some time to get use to if you choose to use the analog control( Which is more fun) over the buttons. The camera during play can be a little off at times and annoying causing you to maybe miss your target in a quick paced fight or results in you getting hit, however this really isn't a major concern.

There seems to be some slowdown during game-play when you get a codec call. The real slowdown seems to be a loading issue with these calls, however it could just be my games console rather than the game. MGR has fun hack and slash game-play which is not something I usually go for.

Presentation: Visually the game looks great, realistic and fits in perfectly with the rest of the MG series as one might expect.

Soundtrack: The soundtrack is a fast paced rock and metal mix. Nearly every boss fight includes lyrics within the soundtrack. I personally had no idea what was being sung during these fights but it certainly upped the tension and overall feel of each battle. MGR's soundtrack works great within in the game but its not one I'd have on my ipod.

Cast and Characters: The cast, with whom I'm not really too familiar with apart from Quinton Flynn who voiced Raiden in MGS2 and MGS4. Quinton Flynn delivers his lines perfectly along with the rest of the cast. Every character had a voice that suited them perfectly and none of them seemed out of place in any way.

As noted earlier in MGR we are introduced to characters very fast, some of these characters seem interesting and have certain quirks about them, one is constantly moving a cup placed by another character so it won't be knocked over while another wants you to cut off and deliver the left hands of your enemies. Sadly we don't get to know too much about these characters and this game really is focused on Raiden. One great aspect of this is the fact that Raiden was a main character in both MGS2 and MGS4 so we don't need to learn his back-story all over again because we know it. There are a few times his past is talked about and his nickname of 'Jack The Ripper' is tossed around but its not in your face and we don't have to listen to Raiden whine about it constantly, or just whine in general (I'm looking at you MGS2)

One problem with the quick introduction of characters is that bosses are introduced and then we fight them, they get a cut-scene to babble on about some stuff but we don't see any growth with them. Its as if some of them were born had something happen and then were in a coma up until this point in time. One other thing to note about the characters and especially Raiden is some of his actions, I wont go into detail on this but just think of it as, saying one thing and doing another. On the topic of characters overall there are two returning characters from the previous game one is Raiden and the other you will know when/if you play for yourself.

Final Thoughts: The game is very enjoyable, high speed hack and slash with plenty of extras to collect, if thats your kind of thing, mine personally is PS3 trophies of which there are 51 set across, I believe 5 difficulty settings from Easy up to Revengence.

Score:8/10

A hack and slash Metal gear spinoff is something, that noone couldve expected. Because of its bumpy development it was shifted to Platinum games (Bayonetta, MadWorld) and they did much better job, than stealth action shooter developers couldve ever done.

Surprisingly soundtrack reaches the "Doom 2016" levels of quality more on the rock side and it is one of the best soundtrack implemetation into any medium Ive heard.

I also have to mention, that the game is running on PS3 in 720p/60fps, which was (at that time) very rare for these kind of graphics.

Story - Story is really basic for Metal gear and few characters fall flat, but the villian roster is amazing and the quotes are timeless. Mainly the Senator Armstrong, with his understanding of the "war as a business model" which is very conviniently applied to Pakistan and its pretty relatable to the recent Afghanistan events. The codec is one extremely detailed aspect and has so much lore hidden underneath. I also like, that it continues MGS2 and MGS4 internet society dangers and how easily public is manipulated. The Raidens road to insanity was really good. I have only one complaint. In an extremely well done scene Raiden has to kill a child, to save more children currently choking on gas, but he just returns in a cybernetic body right at the start of the next chapter. It just undermines the entire moment.

Gameplay - Gameplay is like the peak of hack and slash games and the strongest aspect of this game. I loved it. Normally i hate hack and slash games, but this is the best Ive played and I played quite a lot of them. Stealth, even tho not very well done is not forced and was implemented just to be a nod to its roots. The bosses are a great setpiece showcase and a sight to behold. People complained about the exploitable blocking, but its a bs. The actual game requires you to be really precise with the timing.

To wrap it up I enjoyed the game more than I thought I would. I didnt expect much from hack and slash Metal gear, but it turned out the best it couldve.

8.5/10.

Prepare for a hack-and-slash extravaganza in the Metal Gear universe, where cyborgs reign supreme. Join Raiden on his vengeful quest as he uncovers a conspiracy that threatens to ignite a global conflict, all while slicing adversaries into countless pieces.

Gameplay: If you've ever yearned for a science fiction-infused experience akin to Devil May Cry or Bayonetta, you've found your nirvana. Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance seamlessly blends exhilarating combat with captivating boss battles. The core gameplay revolves around executing intricate combos, eviscerating enemies into minuscule fragments, all set to an electrifying soundtrack.

As you progress, you'll acquire an arsenal of weapons and items scattered throughout the levels. Each boss encounter rewards you with a potent heavy attack weapon. Raiden's abilities and gear can be upgraded using a shared currency, also unlocking extras like skins and alternate weapons.

Characters: The game's cast brims with fascinating characters, each harbouring unique philosophies on life, war, and strength. Notably, Metal Gear's penchant for enigmatic characters shines through, adding an extra layer of intrigue. These characters, if you contemplate their perspectives, often mirror aspects of both their world and ours.

Story: Metal Gear Rising initially pits good against evil, with both factions deeply committed to their cause. However, as the story unfolds, you'll discover that these forces, seemingly opposed, share a darker commonality - an unquenchable thirst for power, willing to reshape history and cleanse the world, even at the cost of monstrosities. The line between protector and predator blurs, revealing a chilling symmetry.

Music: Metal Gear Rising's soundtrack stands as a masterpiece in its own right. The music accompanying each boss battle mirrors the clash of ideologies, immersing you in the adrenaline-pumping combat. While it might not rival the intensity of Doom's soundtrack, it wouldn't be a stretch to think it played a role in inspiring the iconic Doom soundtrack. Even if you're not inclined to play the game, do yourself a favour and give its boss music a listen; it's that exceptional.

Final Verdict: Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance, while slightly marred by remnants of its era, such as quick-time events, redeems itself with stylish visuals and smooth execution. Overall, it's an extraordinary gaming experience, offering unadulterated excitement."

Despite this game being released in 2013, this game was absolutely incredible.

First of all, the gameplay - wow. The fluency of the gameplay is amazing, with fun mechanics and attacks, but what makes the gameplay peak is blade mode. Slowing down time and slashing away at your enemies, as well as obstacles, is incredibly fun. Not to mention the boss fights - each boss fight is very unique and interesting, never boring you into not playing the game.

Speaking of that, the pacing is amazing. The game starts off incredibly strong and finishes incredibly strong. Just when you think the game will start to lose you, it picks right back up and keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Obviously, I have to talk about the soundtrack. This game takes metal & rock and takes it to the next level, with stunning arrangements and awesome lyrics.

The story is pretty good too. The characters are really unique and the dialogue is really good throughout the game, ending in a climactic finish.

In conclusion - this is my favorite hack 'n slash game, and a must - play for anyone who likes hack 'n slash games.