Sorcery
Reviewed By Reardon Jones
So if it hasn’t been made clear yet, I’m not a massive fan of motion games, be it on PS3 or 360. If you haven't seen my previous dalliance with Motion Games, check this out: Move - Various Games.
Sorcery however, is a very good step towards feeling better about such games.
The game takes us on a journey involving Sorcerer’s apprentice Finn and his sidekick cat, Erline. While these two don’t have great on screen chemistry and lack witty banter (like the loveable Ratchet and Clank), they do have a warmth and likeability which is something previous “move” games have failed to achieve. This results in finding enough in the story to care about and ultimately to enjoy the experience.
Developed by The Workshop and SCE Santa Monica Studio, the story revolves around Finn being left to his own devices, and lets face it, if you are learning magic and the teacher steps out you'd probably steal a wand and go on an adventure of your own. Didn't Harry Potter teach you anything?
Finn must protect his homeland from The Nightmare Queen who threatens to cover the land in darkness. Defending the dark Faerie Kingdoms, Finn must destroy the minions of the Nightmare Queen through his talents in magic.
Most Move games, or all of the ones I have come across, are clearly designed for children with this game being no exception. The basic gestures and wand casting spells are very easy and very accessible to all ages.
Basic play revolves around the development of the gamers magic abilities. Beginning with low level arcane power, skills are developed as you progress, resulting in enough spells and powers that can be combined to create an assortment of carnage (if need be).
Combining spells like Arcane and Elemental abilities allows you to create things like a tornado that’s decked out in crackling lighting or fireballs that sweeps through all enemies in it's path.
In relation to the powers, the variations in wand movement are fun for the better part of the game. For example, being able to cast lighting with a simple flick made things interesting especially when applying a twist of wrist which allows you to curve a bolt around corners. Pretty cool.
One of the problems I have found with “Move” games has been the lack of accurate control. Sorcery seems to have fixed these issues with a very accurate shooting system. Never have I had so much success pointing or slashing at targets. I even hit more times than not, thank God too, I was starting to think the “Move” a waste of time.
One frustrating aspect is potion making. Whilst essential in developing new spells and gaining health, it's pretty boring and tiresome. However, the kiddies will find this aspect of the game pretty fun. Especially if Wizardry and Magic are their cup of tea.
The longevity of the game is limited. The game takes about 8 hours to complete and doesn’t inspire alot of replayability. This is a pretty common theme with any type of move game that isn’t centred on a “Party” theme.
Games like Nintendo's Mario Kart and Party allow for multiple players and variations on gameplay therefore increasing the desire to go back. However games that are focused around a solo character might not be as successful in comparison.
While this is my only real gripe with the game it tends to be a big one. Personally, I'm not one to buy a game unless there is the potential for a replay, especially with the current high cost of games down under in Oz.
For fans of “Move” games this is a definite must. It feels like it has the most to offer with the PS Move technology so far. Kids will enjoy it and adults may get a little fun from it also.
Rating: 75%
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Game: Sorcery
System: PS3
Developer/Co-Developer: The Workshop and SCE Santa Monica Studio
Publisher: Sony Computer Entertainment
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