by Peeps
From this year’s batch of new action games it’s time for Dante’s Inferno. Dante’s Inferno is loosely based off of the Divine Comedy, this is shown in some names remaining the same, but with some major plot changes. This graphics powerhouse has some ups, downs, but overall shows it is quite a bit like God of War “hyper-violence” included.
Graphics. This is definitely the strong point of Dante’s Inferno. The details in some of the enemies is amazing, as well as Dante’s outfit. The cut scenes look simply amazing, however some feel like honestly “showboating” due to the feeling of much more could be done for this, but it was not. The graphics during some of the “quick- time events” are also amazing as well. The main downfall of the graphics is the “pallet swap” feel of many of the “circles”, this gets a tad agitating considering how much promise is shown during certain “circles”.
Sound. Sound is definitely hit or miss for this game. The voice acting sounds clear, but most of the time, very deadpan. This is a bit of a sharp contrast from the amazing graphics that seem to stand out. The music is the standard “I am in a magic-ridden past” sort of feel, with a lot, and I do mean a lot, of background screaming. The screaming is something to expect in a game that is mostly in Hell, but some of the “residents” are in need of some new lines.
Gameplay & Control. God of War is definitely the template of choice for the combat scheme. The combat has the usual, “heavy, light, block, dodge, and magic” set-up going for it, but a new twist is the “good and evil” attacks. From early on you can choose a more physical or magical approach that does affect how you may want to “finish-off” foes, as well as condemn or absolve some select denizens of Hell. The combat is unbalanced as far as juggling capabilities go, and most bosses can turn rather easy (given certain skill selection).
Overall. Dante’s Inferno is a fairly short game with limited replay value. With only so much to do, and so little used this game is a decent action game, but should not be considered more than something of a rental. The graphics are astounding, but the voice acting can be a little flat at times. the combat is smooth, but unbalanced. Overall a decent, yet short game for action fans.
