REVIEW:Syphon Filter:Logans Shadow Synopsis
The baisc synopsis is as follows; Gabe Logan, an IPCA special agent, is sent on a special mission to retrive dangerous technology from a cargo hold on a navy ship. While there, he finds out that the ship has already been ambushed and the technology stolen. Meanwhile, Lian Xing, an old Partner of Gabe's has been acused of being a double agent The bureaucrat in charge of the IPCA shuts them down as a result. Still shocked from the events, its up to you to save the world and find Lian Xing as you tke on the role of Gabe Logan.
Gameplay
The gameplay is very similar to Dark Mirror. With one very notable exception. You can now swim. This may not seem that cool, but believe me, it is. While submerged, you can move around 360 degrees, you weapons rate of fire slows and your bullets slow down and leave a trail a la The Matrix. You can swim around and dodge bullets while firing back at the enemy.
Notice the bullets trails to the right.
Besides this, controls are identical bar a few added maneuvers; you can now grapple enemies and use them as human sheilds, interactive cinamtic cutscenes are quite prevelent, its possible to throw the enemy over ledges and you can 'blinow blind fire' over and around corners and objects. The game is simply fun! Even when youve finished the story, the physics engine will keep you coming back for more. You can never blow up enough bad guys! The only somwhat major flaw with this game is the removal of the blood effects. Now I'm not a sick freak, but I enjoyed the blood effects in Dark Shadow. It added a sense of relism (e.g. Gabes suit will stain red after a few hits) The story isnt exceptionally long, but there are plenty of unlockables to keep you busy.
Notice the man 'flying' in the background.
Yes, you can now throw your enemys away.
The game has, without a doubt, the best cinamatic cutscenes I have ever seen in a PSP game. They are simply beautiful.
The games soundtrack is on par with some A-grade hollywood movies, although somtimes it sounds quite corny, especialy when the tracks repeat.
Online
Logans Shadow online is EXTREMELY fun. Theres a ranking feature that balances the players on a team so no matter how much you suck, there will always be a more crappier player on the other team (which significantly helps me
). As with most online games, there is mild lag, but not enough to restrict gameplay. I havent personally tried out this feature, but those PSP headset things are supported. When I found out I almost droped my PSP, lol, my PSP just starts talking to me, in this German accent telling me to go around the turret and sabotage the bomb! Then I saw the little microphone icon and relized
Conclusion
Despite the removal of blood effects, this game is perfect on almost every level. The whole swimming thing just adds that extra punch. A definate must have for all PSP owners.
9.5/10