New games highlight Vita's capabilities
The PlayStation Vita launches with an incredibly broad lineup of games.
Titles range from a downloadable version of the smartphone hit “Plants vs. Zombies” to a sophisticated addition to the “Uncharted” adventure series. There are several racing titles as well as sports games, platformers, role-playing games and several others that are a bit more difficult to classify. Overall, it’s one of the most impressive launch catalogs that I’ve seen.
Following are a few quick takes on a few of the games, with a focus on what makes them interesting on the Vita.
Uncharted: Golden Abyss — Nathan Drake’s treasure-hunting adventures continue in a game that offers two styles of control. You can control the action with the joysticks and buttons or the touchscreen, or a combination of the two. For example, when Drake’s climbing a wall, you can guide him step by step by using the joysticks or you can simply trace the path you want him to take using your finger. Using the joystick to aim Drake’s weapons was a little tricky, though. I’m not sure whether it was a problem with me making the transition from the PlayStation 3’s “Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception,” or a hitch in the system.
Little Deviants — This title showcases the Vita’s potential more than any other. It uses the touchscreen, rear touch panel, camera and motions sensors in a collection of minigames that features odd little aliens. Although a few of the games are a bit tedious, a surprising number are extremely fun. I especially liked the augmented reality game that filled my living room with spacecraft.
Plants vs. Zombies — Everyone seems to have played this “castle defense” game on a smartphone. What’s significant about this downloadable title is that it proves that casual games can move quite nicely — and relatively cheaply — onto the Vita.
Dungeon Hunter Alliance — Here’s another game that got its start on smartphones. The game is far superior to the version that had you poking at a tiny screen, however. It’s still not incredibly deep, but the addition of dual-joystick controls — as well as improved graphics — make this a game that I actually wanted to finish, unlike the original.
FIFA Soccer — This plays much like a standard “FIFA” title, and that’s good because there’s no reason why sports fans should be penalized for wanting some fun on the run. In addition to the familiar buttons and joysticks, gamers have the option of using the touchscreen to identify players to pass to, and they can use the rear touch pad to aim their shots on goal — both surprisingly fun additions to the franchise.
Touch My Katamari — This puzzle game features a sticky ball that you use to roll over and gather objects until you have a massive conglomeration of junk. The basic concept is easy and fun. On the other hand, the game proves that the touchscreen isn’t always the answer. Like “Dungeon Hunters,” “Katamari” works much better when I rely on joysticks.
Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3 — My sons and I disagree over this fighting game. Two of us think this is a fun and faithful version of the console franchise. My other son believes the stick controls are a bit off and says he feels like he’s just wiggling the stick randomly and mashing buttons. Since that’s what I do half the time anyway, I guess I didn’t notice the difference.
WipEout 2048 — This sharp-looking racing game lets you careen through city streets in a variety of futuristic vehicles. The graphics offer plenty of detail and texture. For controls, you can opt for traditional joystick and buttons or you can use the motion controls to steer and the touchscreen to fire weapons at opposing drivers.
Rayman Origins — I have to admit that there’s nothing unusual about the controls or presentation of this ornery, cartoony platformer. However, it’s incredibly accessible and tremendously fun.
