Review: 3D Dot Game Heroes (PS3)

I've always been a big fan of 'The Legend of Zelda' series and many other old school RPGs, so the appearance and idea of '3D Dot Game Heroes' was very appealing to me. In a nutshell, you're a hero who sets off on a quest to slay an evil bishop who is set on making the world a miserable place. In true old school RPG fashion, that's all there really is to it. In fact, the whole game is basically a homage to the Legend of Zelda. Not that there's anything wrong with that, of course!

You progress in the game by exploring dungeons, solving puzzles, killing enemies, and collecting items. When your health bar is full, you gain the ability to increase your sword size to tremendous lengths when swung, much like shooting beams out of your sword in Zelda. Other Zelda-like items can be obtained throughout the game, such as boomerangs, lanterns, bombs and bows. The game also has a bestiary of all the enemies you face, which appear once they are defeated. The game is also loaded with Trophies to obtain, so that'll probably keep you busy for a while.

Throughout the game, a lot of subtle references to NES games are made. In fact, the whole style of this game strongly resembles that of the 8-bit action adventure games of the 80's. I love the nostalgia this game brings, and I think it is sure to bring pleasant memories to the oldest of gamers. Even the loading screens feature re-created box art of classic video games using the game's 3D sprites! Speaking of which, yes you read that right: the graphics are in 3D, but the world and characters are all animated like they are made of retro 2D sprites. It's a really interesting visual style; the graphics are just amazing. It's truly a feast for the eyes.

As far as those 2D character sprites go, you have a choice in the beginning of the game from a healthy selection of pre-made characters, or you can make your own with the sprite editor. You can also trade character models with other PSN users. Having certain save data on your system from other games will also add to the character selection in the beginning of the game. For example, a Little Big Planet save file will allow you to play as a 2D Sackboy in 3D Dot Game Heroes.

The game is also incredibly funny and pokes fun at other Atlus games and nerdiness. Experienced gamers will find themselves laughing throughout a majority of the game with its witty and humorous references to other old-school games as well, not just Atlus titles. The soundtrack goes right along with the retro theme, featuring catchy songs that are reminiscent of Legend of Zelda midi themes.

With how much this game plays homage to/ruthlessly mocks old 8-bit RPGs, it can't really be considered a fully original game. However, despite that, or maybe because of it, it is still an amazing game and incredibly fun. This game doesn't make the mistake of taking itself too seriously, and neither should the player. I felt the game was a celebration to geekiness, which is why I loved it! If you're ever in a nostalgic mood, I recommend busting this out instead of trying to find your old NES system in your attic. It's probably faster, and you'll be just as satisfied.

Submitted by: Armando Ibarra (Employee)