Grand Theft Auto 3
Average Customer Review:
CD-ROM (21 May, 2002)
list price: $24.99 -- our price: $24.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

With Grand Theft Auto III, Rockstar proves that not alldevelopers are concerned with toning down the violence in their games.This sequel is even more bloody, violent, and sadistic than its popularpredecessors, offering up an enormous 3-D city in which nearly anycriminal act is possible. Players are free to steal cars, beat up thelocal population for their money (or weapons), make time withprostitutes, or simply roam to their heart's content. Those seekingmore structure can embark on dozens of plot-driven missions or stealcars that let them play minigames. Nab a cop car and go on vigilantemissions. Grab a cab and play a deadly version of Crazy Taxi.Take a fire truck and earn money putting out fires. The game just nevergets boring.

As in real life, there are consequences for your criminality. As yourrandom acts of mayhem mount up, the police start hounding you,eventually calling in SWAT trucks, the FBI, and even the army if youcontinue down the path of destruction. Shaking these pursuers is easilythe most fun part of the game, especially when a bunch of friends arepacked in the room to witness your narrow escapes.

Grand Theft Auto III is fine-tuned to near perfection in everycategory. All the vehicles, from slick sports cars to lumbering dumptrucks, handle exactly as you'd expect and smash apart realisticallywhen abused. The three islands in the game are rendered in terrificdetail considering their size, and are packed with traffic,pedestrians, and hidden jumps. The audio is equally amazing.Pedestrians talk, cops scream at you, and you can tune in ninedifferent radio stations whenever you are in a car. It all adds up to amonumental achievement: the rare console game for adults that managesto get everything right. --T. Byrl Baker

Note: This review refers to thePlayStation2 version ofthis game.

Pros:

• Offers an enormous world for players to exploit, rendered instaggering detail
• Equally fun whether you go on plot-based missions or run around asa freelance crook

Cons:

• Ultraviolence, foul language, and adult situations mean you'll wantto keep this far away from kids
• It takes too long to get from one island to another, making somemissions tedious

... Read more

Features

• Mob bosses need favors; gangs want you dead
• Both narrative-driven and nonlinear gameplay
• A fully realized 3-D city
• Hundreds of characters and 50-plus vehicles

Reviews (263)

EXCELLENT GAME AVERY GOOD START.
This game,Grand Theft Auto III is deffinatly great and has LESS glitches then Grand Theft Auto Vice City & San Andreas and them 2 games are even newer a great 2D to 3D jump and a very good start.
Story Line:Your Charicter(remains unnamed) arrives at Liberty City bank in a Banshee sports car armed and it happens to be that Catalina(Cartel Head) is with Miguel(the 2nd best head of the Cartel) and is also robbing the bank you turn around and "BANG!" she shoots you and escapes with the stolen money that you requested for and you are at the back of a S.W.A.T. van with 2 men 8Ball and the Oriental Gentleman as well as a Copper but the Colombian Cartel hold up the van to kidnap the oriental Gentleman and gives you and 8-Ball a chance to escape and then the Callaghan Bridge blows up leaving Portland disconnected from the rest of Liberty City because 1)The Calaghan bridge is destroyed 2)the sub-road is still being built 3)the subway has shut down for a while and you are stuck with the L1-Mafia to give you work to pass time and the Diablos keep an eye on you until they contact you for work and the LC Triads start of not caring about you and then they hate you for destroying there trademark properties that include the LC launderette and the
"Belly-Up" Fish company.
GRAPHICS:7/10:The graphics are a bit cheasy but has less glitched then Vice City and San Andreas and are good for its release year,2001.
SOUND:The sound is great with 9 Radio Stations in every car except for Police,Ambulance and Fire Trucks ect. and the voice acting is great 9/10
StoryLine:8/10:A Great story line but its 2 short.
Comparrisants9for the time 1)GTAIII 2)Driver 2 3)World Scariest Police Chases(in my oppinion)
FAMILY:The GTA series in clude Grand Theft Auto 1 w/GTA London GTA2,GTAIII,GTA:Vice City,GTA:San Andreas,(still mor to come i hope)
Future Predictions:GTAIII,GTA:V.C. & GTA;S.A. are all set on the 3 cities from GTA1(Liberty,Vice City and San Andreas) and the possibilities of ROCKSTAR-games making there next GTA(If) they might make an other city to shoot there next GTA into or they might set it in London(i think this because of GTA1 s Expansion pack is set in London) i hope they set it in London though because it will be a newer culture of crime different cops,different cars and i hope this is the case it won`t probably be in a real-like London like in The GetaWay,more of a fictional London because most of the features in a GTA game are made-up like the Cars,gangs ect. and if the next GTA is in London they won`t have licenced cars because GTA isn`t like that and i hope they have not ran out of ideas for an other GTA game so if you GTA fans want them to make another GTA game send RockStar your ideas of an other explosive GTA.9I DON`T CARE IF YOU DISAGREE with me because it my oppinion)
Bye!
Review by F.G. Coventry,Wst. MidLands,England,Britain,Europe(a GTA fan of all R-Stars GTA games!)

GTA3,Vice City,SA: Best games ever created
The GTA series is the best games ever created, the freedom to do what ever you want, take out gangs with a rocket launcher, toss a nade into heavy populated areas, kill the police and take their cars, put out fires and earn money, beat up civilians and take their money, help mob bosses, pick up hookers with a taxi and drop them off, hack people to death with a chainsaw, own mansions and other properties, fly on a jetpack, kill army soldiers and take their tanks and jets, listen to radio stations and humorous radio talk shows and ads like pogo the monkey. just the best games ever created.

totally violent
This game is way to violent. Why would it be so much fun to hurt someone. they say it's not for kids but I see many kids playing these games.Why do you think there's so much violence and other things like that in this world. It's partly because of these kinds of vidio games ... Read more

Asin: B00005YTYJ
Subjects:  1. Computer Games    2. Action    3. Mechanized action    4. Computer Role Playing Games (Game, rpgs, rpg, crpg, crpgs)   

Maximo- Ghosts to Glory
Average Customer Review:
CD-ROM (15 February, 2002)
list price: $49.99 -- our price: $19.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

A modern version of Capcom's Ghosts 'n' Goblins series, Maximo:Ghosts to Glory is one of those rare games that offers a solid update of aclassic arcade title. This 3-D platform game delivers all the charm of its 2-Dside-scrolling ancestor with current gameplay mechanics. In his latestadventure, Maximo returns to his kingdom to find it in disarray. His formerlytrusted advisor, Achille, has banished the four sorceresses that govern the landand forced Maximo's true love to marry him. To save the day, Maximo must run,jump, and fight his way through five environments spanning more than 25 levels.Like his predecessors, Maximo must constantly worry about upgrading his armorand weapons. Play the game skillfully and you'll have a heavily armed fightingmachine. Take too many hits and Maximo will be fighting villains in hisheart-covered boxers.

Graphics-wise the game is very strong. The animations are smooth, the texturesare rich, and the environments are detailed. The sound is an absolute joy, theeffects are humorous, and the music is fantastic. Tommy Tallarico Studios hasdone an excellent job taking the melodies from the original game and creatingupdated variations that are equally memorable. Although some will find thegameplay repetitive and many will think the boss fights are too easy, Maximo:Ghosts to Glory offers an excellent 15 to 20 hours of platform goodness.--Raymond M. Padilla

Pros:

• Great 3-D update of a 2-D arcade classic
• A nice variety of weapons and moves
• Fantastic music

Cons:

• Boss fights are on the easy side
• Gameplay can get repetitive

... Read more

Reviews (70)

Fun
Maximo is a fun game. While the plot is cliched, this is not what the game is about. The combat is fun. You fight using a sword and can get armor to improve the amount of hits you can stand. The game can be hard, but it doesn't feel like it is throwing unfair challenges at you. The stages in the game are fun. I would like a larger variety of stages in Maximo than there is. Overall, it is a fun game.

it sucks!!!!!!
DON'T BUY THIS GARBAGE THIS IS THE MOST FRUSTATING GAME EVER
MADE, BECAUSE OF THIS GAME I HAD TO BUY A NEW CONTROL BECAUSE
I BROKE MINE AND THEN I BROKE THIS STUPID GAME,TOO.
YOU HAVE TO PAY GOLD COINS EVERYTIME YOU WANT TO SAVE, CAN
SOMBODY TELL ME WATH KIND OF GAME IS THIS!! I ALREADY PAID FOR
MY MEMORY CARD GOD DAMMIT!! THEN THERE IS MONSTERS ALL OVER
THE PLACE THAT YOU DON,T EVEN KNOW WHAT IS GOIN' ON,JUST IMAGINE
STREET FIGHTERS IN RPG.
IT SUCKS, DON'T BUY IT, SAVE YOUR MONEY AND BUY DRIVER 3 WHEN
IT COMES OUT.

Not fun
Learn by dying/failing, and when you fail you go all the way back to the beginning. That's a rather bad game design philosophy. ... Read more

Asin: B00005V6B9
Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. PS2 (PSX2)    3. Sony Playstation (Play station) 2    4. Playstation2 (Play station2)    5. Action    6. Adventure   

Twisted Metal: Black
Average Customer Review:
CD-ROM (22 June, 2001)
list price: $49.99
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Editorial Review

While the Twisted Metal line of vehicular combat games has had unevenepisodes, the developers at Incog have thankfully brought the series back inblack, and it has never been better. Twisted Metal: Black pushes theenvelope in terms of graphics, gameplay, and content. It's a tremendous game,but parents should keep in mind that it carries a Mature rating from ESRB andits content may be unsuitable for younger players. Gamers old enough to handleit will be treated to a must-have game for the PlayStation2.

Twisted Metal: Black is one of the best-looking games on the market. Thecharacter design, animations, particle effects, and lighting effects are alltopnotch, yet the game still runs at a speedy frame rate--even in multiplayermodes. The game isn't all about looks though, as gameplay is very deep andcontains several modes. You'll want to play single-player story mode severaltimes just to see how the game ends for its numerous compelling characters. Eachcharacter has a story line that's simple yet captivating. More importantly, eachof the characters' vehicles has meaningful differences, so players are bound tofind a rig that fits their playing styles.

With its slick gameplay, interesting characters, wide variety of modes, andbreathtaking graphics, Twisted Metal: Black is the best vehicular combatgame yet, and, so far, the best PlayStation2 game of the year. --Raymond M.Padilla

Pros:

• Incredible graphics
• Deep gameplay
• Strong replay value

Cons:

• Controls can be tricky at first
• Boss fights can be frustrating

... Read more

Reviews (264)

IM GOING CRAZY JUST THINKING ABOUT IT!!!!!!
WOW this game rocks I dont know what else to say It is without a doubt the darkest one in the series let me give you a small taste of some of the characters

Sweet Tooth a demented clown serial killer who has finally been caught but on his exacution night he get a curse put on him by another character named preacher

Mr Grimm (my personal favorite) a veteran from veietnam while there him and his buddy benny are captured and put into a hole soon his buddy dies there is only one way for mr. grimm to survive.....

Raven her and her friend were subjects to a high school hazing but it went wrong resulting in her friends death she wants revenge.....

John doe a man that was struck by some sort of amneiseia all he has from his past life is the tatoos that coveer his body but looking at them you would think he was one nasty piece of work.

these are just my favorite characters but there are tons more of them but the story line isnt all that makes up twisted metal black there is also a numerous amount of diferrent cars that you can choose from not to mention tons of weapons

here is a taste of the gameplay:

imagine you are a guy on a bike you been sitting and waiting... then out of no where a icecream truck comes bashing through the window while in mid air it takes on a transformation into a man with an icecream cone in his hand then he starts shooting at you!! about fifteen missles collide with your bike you drive around a wall to avoid the other fiveyou are in pretty bad shape. you then reach into you pouch on the side of your motorcycle and draw out a sickle soon the icecream truck comes around the corner you start letting it loose with your machine gun that is on the passenger side car while fireing you throw the sickle youve been holding it collides with the ice cream truck and exsplodes the car blows up and a man runs out on fire. victory... good job only six more cars to go

this game as you can see is non stop action all the way through and it will make a good game to add to your collection

Multi-player really saves this game
Twisted Metal: Black is part of a long line of vehicle combat games that began on the PSOne.This one is the most advanced and complex of them all (NOTE: there is a brand new version for the PSP that I have not played yet); however, the game plays pretty much just like every version that has been released since the old PSOne days.The game is fun, but it almost feels like it is becoming dated.The plus side is you can probably find it for pretty cheap nowadays.

The game moves FAST and can be a little difficult to play at first.Unless you've played a Twisted Metal game before you will probably need to switch to the Easy setting against the computer until you get used to the controls and the speed of the game.The graphics are decent even by today's standards, and the levels can get to be pretty large and intricate, but you are going to be moving so fast to avoid enemies that you don't get much time to enjoy them.The music and lighting gives the game an eerie sort of feel that reminds me of the old Quake games.

In single-player mode you get three options:Story, Challenge, and Endurance.The Challenge and Endurance modes are pretty much just a practice for the Story mode, where you will spend most of your time playing individually.The gist of story mode is you pick one of a group of cars/drivers who has some problem that can be solved by winning this car destruction tournament.Being that the story has nothing to do with gameplay, and each story is of some deranged lunatic that follows the same pattern, you may get bored with the story pretty easiliy and just skip the screens to get to the action.Additional cars and levels can be unlocked in the Story mode, so you will want to spend some time playing it even if the story gets a little boring.

The real fun of this game is the Multi-player mode.You can play a 2-player co-operative Story game but I find it more fun to go head-to-head against others.There is nothing like challenging a friend to some violent car-destruction action (Or up to three friends if you have a Multi-tap).The Story mode can get a little repetitive after a while, but it's always a lot fun to destroy your friend's cars!

The Dark Side of Fun
Twisted Metal Black is the pinnacle of the series. For those uninitiated, the game follows the tortured and demented stories of several combatants, selected from an asylum to participate in some vehicular mayhem in order to get a shot at personal redemption, usual with a "twist".

The game is of the older PS2 generation, but still holds up in graphics and gameplay. The levels, cinematics, and plotlines are all expectedly dark and brooding, and you can adjust the challenge and difficulty according to your skill level.

As with every other game in the series, you have a host of characters to choose from, and each bring their own variety of strengths and weaknesses to the table. Coupled with the unique story, this adds to the replay value in that you're given a new adventure with a new set of skills each time you play. It won't take long for you to pick your favorite antihero.

The music and sounds are pretty standard by today's fare. Not much to report there.

The multiplayer is simply okay, for both at home and online. I didn't bother too much with it. However, the sheer amount of levels in the game, couple with the unlockables really expands the multiplayer experience when the single player loses its luster. Fair warning, make sure you have a large screen, because there's a marked difference between the single and multi-player experience in terms of screen space. It's noticeably invasive.

For the bargain basement prices this game goes for now, it's definitely worth a look for those looking for games that depart from the norm. This really is the best in the series, the action is chaotic, the stories and settings are neurotic, and if you're just a little bit twisted, and want a quick and easy (cheap) fix, check this one out. You won't be disappointed. ... Read more

Asin: B00005J536
Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. PS2 (PSX2)    3. Sony Playstation (Play station) 2    4. Playstation2 (Play station2)    5. Classics (Classic)    6. Retro    7. Racing    8. Flying    9. Great Deals (Outlet store)   

Gran Turismo 3: A Spec
Average Customer Review:
CD-ROM (13 July, 2001)
list price: $49.99 -- our price: $19.88
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

The PlayStation2 takes the Gran Turismo franchise to new heights in thethird edition of the venerable racing series. The graphics are sure to grabyou--the cars and tracks are awe inspiring, and there are some incredible lightingeffects. This game is much more than eye candy, though.

The gameplay in Gran Turismo 3: A-Spec is the same as its predecessors;fans of the previous games will feel right at home, while newcomers will be ableto pick things up easily. There are more than 150 cars from which to choose, andplenty of tracks upon which to race them. Arcade mode works well for a quickfix, while simulation mode provides outstanding replay value. The sound effectsare impressive--each engine has a unique sound, and tire screeches fromdifferent cars sound noticeably different. The soundtrack is a good mix oforiginal compositions and a wide variety of recording artists, including MotleyCrue, Raekwon, Jimi Hendrix, and Snoop Dogg.

One minor flaw with the game is its relatively predictable artificialintelligence. Computer-controlled cars follow distinct lines, and you'll be ableto pick up the patterns after a few races. Considering how far the graphics havecome since the original Gran Turismo, it's disappointing that the AIhasn't progressed similarly. Despite this, GT3 remains an outstandinggame. Few games offer its combination of high quality and immense variety.--Raymond M. Padilla

Pros:

• Incredible graphics
• Excellent physics and controls
• Great soundtrack

Cons:

• Predictable AI
• No Porsche or Ferrari licenses

... Read more

Features

• Gran Turismo 3 raises the bar for racing games.
• Using the calculation power of the PlayStation 2, the physics model is identical to that of a real car!
• Feel the speed as you maneuver through curves and shoot down straight-aways.
• Environment mapping creates broadcast-quality graphics that blur the line between game and reality.

Reviews (626)

Only GT4 is better!!
The only driving simulator that is better is GT4. If your expecting an easy arcade like racer with Lambo's and dressed up import's go try NFS or some other title. Gran Turismo is the measure by which all racing game's are compared to, and justifable too. Realistic graphic's and physic's are great. Expect to take a lot of time learning to drive. This is not a casual racer. Only two comment's/annoyance's are the music and number of car's. 1. Cars: Or should I say lack of car'
s. I think there were more car's in the original Gran Turismo(not sure I could be wrong).Also I think that more of a variety of car's. After winning the 50th Nissan Skyline(not sold in USA) it get a bit annoying,lol. This is fixed in GT4 so don't worry too much(number of car's). 2.Music: Aside from Lenny Kravitz and Motley Crue the sound is pale in comparison to GT2(The best of Gran turismo soundtracks). This also goes for GT4(apart from Van Halen's-"Panama"). It seem's as if they spent so much time and effort on other area's and music was an afterthought. In the first two (GT and GT2) soundrtack's they were an integril(I know I spelled that wrong,lol)part of the experience. Only serious racer's and car nuts need to apply.

I MEAN NO STARS!
This game has bad graphics.
It has sucky cars.
It is so hard to play on different tracks.
The cars dosn't even have a driver in it.

The King of All Racing Games!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I've been a fan of Gran Turismo ever since it's debut. The game is so addictive that I have played it for 10 hours straight! The graffics are stunning and the courses are well made. My favorite part about the game is that they brought in F1 racers. I smoke the competition every time I use my 900 horsepowered monster! Over all this game is AWESOME! ... Read more

Asin: B0000503MO
Subjects:  1. Gran    2. three (III) 2000    3. Video Games    4. PS2 (PSX2)    5. Sony Playstation (Play station) 2    6. Playstation2 (Play station2)    7. Racing    8. Flying   

Final Fantasy X
Average Customer Review:
CD-ROM (21 December, 2001)
list price: $49.99 -- our price: $19.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Each installment of the Final Fantasy series has featured strongstorytelling, characterization, and strategic combat, fun minigames, and hoursupon hours of captivating gameplay. The 10th title in the series is noexception. This is the first time a Final Fantasy game has appeared on thePlayStation2, and it takes full advantage of the increased technicalcapabilities.

The story this time concerns Tidus, a blond-haired star of a sport calledBlitzball. While he is playing in a match, Tidus's city is attacked by an evilforce called Sin, and everything is destroyed save Tidus and his guardian Auran.The adventure begins as the pair are somehow transported to another world. Fromhere on, it's standard Final Fantasy gameplay: fight battles, manage experiencepoints, learn new powers, and recruit a motley crew of nonplayer characters tojoin your quest.

The graphics, however, take things to a new level. They are amazing not only fortheir realism, but also for their imaginative art design. The world these heroesinhabit is breathtakingly beautiful, flowing, and full of inventive surprises.You haven't lived until you've surfed cables high in the air, or ridden agraceful airship through the clouds. The stunning effects are on display whenyou use magic in combat, summon gigantic monsters, and use fire columns todevastate your foes.

One new element is voice acting. The innovation yields predictably mixedresults: it's wonderful to hear spoken dialogue rather than read subtitles, butas with most games translated from Japanese, the acting is mediocre andsometimes unintentionally hilarious.

Still, the game's new graphics engine and solid gameplay are sure to please fansof the series waiting to see what Square has in store for them. While FinalFantasy X doesn't offer much innovation, it also doesn't disappoint. Andfortunately, with Final Fantasy XI already in development, the title isstill a misnomer. --Andrew S. Bub

Pros:

• Gorgeous graphics
• Epic story line
• Voice acting

Cons:

• Little innovation
• The voice acting is sometimes laughable

... Read more

Features

• ini-games, such as the underwater sport of blitzball and a monsterarena.
• DOLBY DIGITAL 5.1 channel Surround EX compatible.

Reviews (1387)

Great Game (I'm not a kid, I wanted an anonymous review)
First of all I am a avid RPGer and have played many, many different titles. Although FFX was not the best it was certainly very good.

Graphics- Nine out of Ten. The FMVs were beutiful and lifelike. If you have ever see one you will agree. However, during gameplay some of the transitions werent as good as they could be. Also the characters could be choppy at times.

Story- Ten out of Ten. In the beginning the story can be kind of confusing and boring. Although once you get farther into the game it gets better and better. There are several good plot twists which keep you interested. Also, for the people who do nothave any kind of patience this game is not for you. The cutscenes can be "long" (they are not really that long, try Xenogears and Xenosaga if you want long, but if you don't have any patience they will be horrible).

Gameplay- Nine out of Ten. I thought the gameplay was good, although there were some problems with it. I personlly loved the Sphere Grid it was a fun and different way of leveling up. But, once you get most of the sphere grid done you are grossly overpowered and it gets very, very easy to win battles. The random encounters are a little bit too frequent in my opinion, but you need them to level up. I also liked how you could switch characters during battle.

Sound- Seven out of Ten. The music was okay, just okay, nothing really stuck in my head the way it did with some other games. The worst aspect of the sound was the voice acting ugh! Sometimes it was completely laughable. But, in my opinion it was not that big a deal.

Overall I thought this was a great game. If you don't have patience hovever this game will be like pulling teeth for you. It took me 50 hours to beat this game on my first playthrough. Which is fairly long for an RPG (I have played much longer). But I do recomend this game to people who have a patient bone in their body.

Wow!
I have this game and almost up to the final boss and this is the first Final Fantasy to have voices in it.It has a sphere grid to level up your characters.

No, no, no, no, no.....
I played this game for a long, long time (about 35 hours) and quit before beating it. Here's what I think:

First, the pros.

1. The game has good graphics for its time, definitely, although some animations are a little excessive. Backgrounds mix between 3D and pre-rendered, all usually unique and beautiful.

Okay, that about does it for the pros. Now, the cons.

1. The battling is, to put it simply, horrendous. Although the battle system is faster than previous FF games, it is inexcusable to have such a basic battle system in any RPG today. Seriously, its less advanced than many SNES RPG's. No time limits (as in FFVI, FFVII, or Chrono Trigger), no real-time implementation, nothing. Just plain, "select attack and watch" battling. Oh wait, there is one new aspect. During battle, you can switch characters in and out, which does lead to pretty handy healing or power-up situations. I'll admit, that aspect is interesting.

2. When you're not battling, the game is at its worst. It goes like this: first, there is a cutscene, then a long, painfully linear path full of random encounters every 10 seconds, and then a boss. That's it. For 35 hours or so, cutscene, linear path, boss, repeat. It starts out fun (which is why the game recieved such great reviews), but about 15-20 hours into it the fun is gone. At around 30 hours, it starts to get painful.

3. The plot is drab. I hear all these great things about the plot, but I can't agree. The plot, like the rest of the game, is basic and not innovative. It also goes from passable to just plain lame by the end of the game.

4. Audio is also drab. Music is good, but nothing sticks in my mind like Chrono Cross or the SNES RPG's of old. Voice acting starts strong, but all of the voices get very, very annoying later on.

5. Characters. Ugh. All of them are stereotypes. Tidus, the protaganist, is your typical hero with the "let's go get 'em!" attitude. Yuna is your female caster who is quiet and sensitive. Auron is your "cool" character, whose sole purpose is to be cool, and fails miserably. Rikku is the underage female who's your hyper-active and painfully annoying character, designed to test the young male gamer's Photoshopping skills. Lulu and Kimahri have no personality whatsoever. However, Wakka is a very interesting and fresh character, the only interesting one in the game. He has the best voice acting, also.

6. Blitzball. I expected a real time, soccer-like experience, but no. The developers got lazy and made it a simple turn-based borefest.

7. The Sphere Grid. What idiot thought of this idea? The old way of leveling up was fine, but the developers decided to change it for some reason. It's basically a new way of leveling up, but the thing is you level up at such small increments so often (it gets very annoying to go to the Grid after every few battles) that you never feel like you're getting more powerful. It's a perfect example of something that changes a game, but doesn't improve upon it. I definitely prefer the old style of leveling up.

Overall, the game is fun for a while (which is, as I stated before, why it got such good reviews). The whole game just gets worse and worse as time goes on. Do yourself a favor and skip this one.
... Read more

Asin: B00005TNI6
Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. PS2 (PSX2)    3. Sony Playstation (Play station) 2    4. Playstation2 (Play station2)    5. Fighting    6. Role Playing Games (rpg, rpgs)    7. Great Deals (Outlet store)   

The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask
Average Customer Review:
Game Cartridge (26 October, 2000)
list price: $59.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Reviews (451)

Stange is good
Majora's Mask is a strange game: while it is a direct sequel to Ocarina of Time, it is clearly a Zelda game of a very different shade.

It begins with Link slowly trudging deep in the Lost Woods, with his trusty horse, Epona, when he is attacked by a masked and mischevious Skull Kid - who steals his precious Ocarina and Epona. Worse still, the Skull Kid turns Link into a Deku form of himself, and Link finds himself in a strange Mirror - like Hyrule. Things turn even worse when Link finds the moon slowly getting bigger over the course of 3 days...

Majora's Mask features the very same Gameplay as Ocarina of Time, with a few exceptions. The entire course of the game is set within 3 days or 72 hours - and hours seem to pass like minutes, giving a player a total of just over an hour. While this may seem off-putting, it is implemented very well - people have set schedules over the course of the game, meaning you will be pottering around the Clock Town while not in dungeons, with the promise of an upgrade - or even a new mask.

Masks, as the title suggests, play an important role - some make you run faster, talk to enemies, summen foes or sooth arguements and more. There are a total of 24 masks to collect, the reward being a mask containing "The Merits of all masks". The best of the masks are the ones that allow transformation. (Let's face it, who HASN'T dreamed of swimming as a Zora or rolling as a Goron) The Zora Mask, the Goron Mask and the Deku mask. they allow you to transforminto all your favourites from Ocarina, each with the gifts of the species - Super fast swimming, Incredible strength, and, er, spitting nuts.

Majora's Mask is harder, darker and more original than Ocarina of Time - the unique aspects of the game are implemented very well but the way the game is played may be off-putting for some. Brilliant and totally original.

P.S. the start bits kinda boring.

The darkest in the Zelda catalogue
If only that damn site IGN didn't take my idea first. They described this game as the Empire Strikes Back in Zelda and it's true. It's more darker, more gloomy and at times it can even be depressing. Unlike Ocarina of Time which oozed coolness and wonderment or Wind Waker which was cheery and uplifting due to its look, Majora's Mask is quite different than other installments but in no way is it bad, it's just different.

Story: I always considered this game more like an epilogue to Ocarina of Time rather than a full sequel. At the start of the game directly taking place after Ocarina, Link is in a forest and gets ambushed by Skull Kid and is turned into a Deku(they look like tiny trees with a long mouth) and enters a portal. From here Link finds himself in Termina, a land that is gonna be destroyed by a falling moon in 3 days. So it's up to Link once again to save the day using the powers of time and this weird masks.

Graphics: Reviewing this game in 2005 with such games as Metroid Prime, Halo and Metal Gear Solid 3 of course puts Majora to shame but remembering the graphics at that time, it's more of an extension of Ocarina only darker and not as vibrant. Due to maybe the Expansion Pak or just the game itself, the game does have framerate issues and some rough textures. Beware that the Gamecube re-release on the Collector's Edition sometimes freezes the game.

Gameplay: All Zelda games pretty much to this day revolved around some kind of "gimmick": in Ocarina it was time travelling, Wind Waker was controlling the wind, Minish Cap was the ability to shrink to thumbnail size and the Oracle series revolved around time travelling and season changing. Majora's Mask revolves around, yep you guessed it, masks. Link with the benefit of 24 masks(25 if you get all 24), Link can turn into different characters such as the Deku race, Goron race(big tough creatures with a taste for rocks) and the Zora race(fish people roughly). Or there's different masks like Postman, Ghost, or Bunny mask which makes him run faster.

The other aspect for the 3rd time in Zelda's history revolves around time travelling, once in Ocarina and the other in Oracle of Ages. Only this time it's different. You see the game's clock makes 3 days take about roughly 50 minutes before the moon crashes so with the Ocarina you can go back to Day 1 and start over, even make the time go slower so you have more time. This is quite annoying to say the least since your funds, arrows and bombs revert to zero if you go back to Day 1, your items are intact, your extra stuff isn't. And also you could be in the middle of a dungeon to be really close only to be on the final day and have to reset to Day 1, which incidentally cancels any progress you made in the dungeon.

Not to say the game is bad(it's just slightly hard) but it's quite enjoyable to go through, if you don't mind it's tone anyway.

very very good but,not as good as 'ocarina of time'
I played the Legend of zelda ocarina of time in 1997,WHAT A YEAR THAT WAS!!!I had so much fun!then in gameinformer magazine the new preveiws page said that there was going to be a new game called 'the legend of zelda:majora's mask'it was about link going to a new land where the moon is falling and he has only 3 days to live and on the third day link has to play the song of time so that he can go back to the first day,I HAD TO HAVE IT!but then half a year later when it came out,I was very upset because when I played it,it was too easy and I beat it in almost a week!when I played'Ocarina of time'it took me almost two YEARS!but other then that it was a fun game,Very fun in fact.I really liked that you can upgrade your sword,when in 'ocarina of time'the master sword is what you see what you get!PROS TO MAJORAS MASK:There are lots of masks that you can get and they give powers(like fast running),you can upgrade your sword twice,there are new songs for link to play on his ocarina and there is a bank so link can have alot of money!CONS:you have to play 'the song of time'way to often because the moon is falling for some reason and you have only 3 days to live,finding more then half of the masks are very hard to find,the game has only four temples and they are all very hard way too short.but all in all this game is worth around $15.00,so if you like the other Zelda games try this one too! ... Read more

Asin: B00004U1R1
Sales Rank: 394
Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. Nintendo 64 (Nintendo64)    3. N64    4. Role Playing Games (Game, rpg, rpgs)   

Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
Average Customer Review:
Game Cartridge
list price: $39.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time may be the greatest single-player video game ever created in any genre. It's that good. Those new to Nintendo's enormously popular Zelda series will be glad to know this game stands completely on its own. Our hero, Link, starts the game as a young boy living in a magical forest village populated by elf-like children. But there is evil lurking in the world. Strange monsters are appearing, and the land is changing. It's up to Link to discover why, defeat the monsters, and stop the evil at its source.

The game world's ever-changing environment looks like a fairy tale come to life. Majestic waterfalls, towering castles, and magical forests are a feast for the eyes and ears. Rivers flow, rain falls, the sun and moon rise and set. There's even an erupting volcano! Exploring this world is half the fun of the game. Along the way, you learn musical tunes that you can play on the flute-like Ocarina, a magical device that helps you teleport, alter the weather, even control time itself.

Character interaction is important to gather clues. The fairy princesses, singing frogs, and dragons you'll meet can be cute, humorous, or somewhat terrifying. Sprinkled liberally throughout the game are hundreds of secret treasures and enjoyable minigames (one of which, the fishing game, would almost be worth buying by itself). Game controls are easy to learn. There's even an elaborate fight training course built right into the game. Controlling the hero quickly becomes instinctive, and you can concentrate on saving the world. To win the game, you'll have to use not only Link's sword, but your mind as well. This game's challenging and inventive puzzles really make you think. In fact, to keep from getting stuck, it's worth spending a few bucks on an official player's guide. With The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, Nintendo has come up with an all-consuming adventure title that will provide days of engrossing gameplay. --Eric Fredrickson

Pros:

• Best single-player video game
• Freedom to explore a rich, complex world
• Helpful fairy guide gives hints
• Charming, humorous, lighthearted, yet challenging

Cons:

• Some puzzles can be frustrating
• Only one saved game per player--don't save when you're stuck!
• Much more fun with Rumble Pack

... Read more

Features

• Variety of items and secrets
• Fully 3-D rendered graphics
• Clear background music and detailed sound effects
• Highly interactive environment

Reviews (833)

ocarina of time review
I loved it.It just draws you in.There was some parts i got snagged on but it is one of the best puzzle solving games you'll ever buy.I'd give it 5 stars any day.Like finding one of those big chests wondering what will be inside,is it a bomb bag,is it a bow and arrow,is it a sling shot?It's a magnificent game,i'd recomend it for anyone and everyone.So next time your out buying video games and you see it on the shelf BUY IT!

What a revolutionary LoZ game
The most recent LoZ games, in my opinion, have all been fairly average.Wind Waker was the latest actually good LoZ game.But of all the LoZ games, OoT is just plain incredible.

In this game, you play as Link as he grows from a child into a young man while on his quest to defeat Ganon and save the world from ultimate, evil rule.Along the way, you meet many friends and face amazing boss battles.

The graphics (at the time) were just incredible.It really made me enjoy looking at and playing the game.Nintendo really did a great job in this department.

The gameplay is like no other.One of the few incredible games to utilize the C Buttons for vital controls, this game felt really comfortable to play, and there's tons to do in the game besides just beating it.Also, throughout the game, you are forced to travel back and forth through time and play as Young or Adult Link to complete the game, which is awe-inspiring in my opinion.Sadly, after doing little everything, there's no addictive mini-games to really play and not much else to do, but go through the game again and again.

The sound is incredible, and the music has never been better.I found myself turning the volume on the TV all the way up while playing this game, because the sound was that good!

If you're an avid gamer, yet you've never played this game, then something's really wrong with you.Pick this game up and play it 'till your fingers fall off (which I guarantee you'll do).This game is worth buying and owning for as long as you even are alive.

An epic classic! Still the greatest game to roam the Earth!!
A long time ago... in the unevolved time of 1985, a video game company emerged on the scene, known as Nintendo... And from a classic platform (genre) named Mario came a new series: The Legend of Zelda....

I love this game so much, I have to play almost all the time. This is THE greatest game to walk the planet. Or roam. Or kill the other video games. Any are true. This classic is the first 3D legend of zelda, and is still an amazing game to date.

Well, if it's such a great game, why's it so good? What makes it good? Here's a fork in the road where opinions split into multiple directions, but personally, I think the freedom of galloping on horseback on a wide, open, orange-green field, courtesy of the setting sun. This is just awesome for me. I never understood the game when I was young, but now I know all the characters, and all the dungeons. Or the whole game. Whatever. Off topic.

Another great thing is the ever-changing environment. In the night, things get noticably unsafer than in the day, just like reality. The gate to the town closes so you have to battle these skull things that rise up out of the ground. The sun sets and rises every few minutes, (which is kinda scary, in 5 minutes it becomes night), and the moon appears when it's nighttime.

Now the BESTEST thing is the interactiveness, and more importantly, the side quests. The Oot is an eploring RPG, so you don't HAVE to do what the plot tells you to do. There are TONS of mini-games to do. One, you can go fishing. Yes, you heard me correctly, F-I-S-H-I-N-G. How cool is that? There's also archery shootouts, on-horseback shootouts, and even a treasure chest game.

There are tons of things you can do in this game. One nice thing is that the game jumps for you, so it's easier to do things. You can swim and ride on a horse. Oh yes, and dive.

The plot is swirling and amazing, truly spectacular. This is THE best storyline I've ever seen in a videogame besides the Windwaker, which is as good, if not better than the Oot, but I'm preferable to the Majora's Mask. I'm not gonna tell you the story, so I don't spoil the excitement of learning what you have to do.

ALL IN ALL, I think the Oot is a must-have game for any N64 or Gamecube owner. It's the revolutionary classic. Once you play the game, that's when you'll realize. If you realize it's the greatest game you've ever played, rock on. If you think it sucks, go to hell. ... Read more

Asin: B00000DMB3
Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. Role Playing Games    3. Nintendo 64 (Nintendo64)    4. N64    5. Role Playing Games (Game, rpg, rpgs)   

Golden Eye 007
Average Customer Review:
Game Cartridge (01 November, 1999)
list price: $39.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

GoldenEye 007 has been a huge success for Rareware, and it's easy to see why. More than a simple movie translation, this has earned its top-seller status on its own. Fans of Doom and Quake will recognize the first-person shooter perspective, but there the similarity ends. James Bond 007 has too much style to simply blast everything in sight and move to the next level. No, as 007, the player has a variety of different missions to perform, each with its own specific objectives. Each mission follows the film closely, and so James must use stealth and cunning as much as brute force. But if you see a Kalashnikov rifle lying around, by all means pick it up.

Controls are easy to master, which is impressive considering the variety of actions the onscreen hero can perform. James can run and walk at variable speeds, duck, pivot, hide, attach mines to enemy helicopters, block doors from opening, and more. The optional auto-aim feature is especially nice. Of course, James Bond is proficient in a wide variety of weapons. You get to use them all, from the trusty Walther PPK (with silencer) to double sets of full-auto machine guns.

The game's faithful tribute to the Bond legacy includes briefing dossiers on each mission, complete with wisecracks from Q and flirtatious comments from Moneypenny. And the 3-D representation of locations and characters from the movie is very impressive. The Rareware team spent time on the set with digital cameras, and it shows.

One of the distinguishing features of the game is the outstanding artificial intelligence of the enemies. When attacked, squads will rush to hit the alarm. If they make it, reinforcements come running. Enemy soldiers respond to being shot or blown up with chilling realism. According to Rareware, there are over 30 different animation routines that come into play, depending on where the soldier is hit. For those who prefer the challenge of human opponents, there are six clever multiplayer modes where up to four players can shoot it out, as teams or solo agents.

With excellent gameplay, intelligence, and style, GoldenEye 007 is a first-person shooter that'll keep you coming back for more. --Jeanne Uy

Pros:

• Built-in save capability for up to 4 players
• Auto-aim feature helps novice players feel like a sharpshooter
• Rich, complex game world filled with detail and variety
• Great bonus missions

Cons:

• Sometimes cinematic scenes for fulfilling mission objectives are a bit anticlimactic

... Read more

Features

• Play as 007 himself in this first person shooter game
• Complete missions based on the film
• Use weapons, stealth and cunning to outwit the enemy soldiers
• Features characters from the film including Q and Moneypenny
• For 1-4 players

Reviews (303)

DON`T DRAG ME BACK TO 1999 PLEASE
I didn`t first play this in `97 when it fired onto shelves,it was the best game i ever played with 25+ levels i nevaer made it to the very last level,i`m stuck on the Cuban mission thats right after the "Jungle".When i 1st played this back when i was 6(You can considder that too young to play it then) and my brother traded 1080:SnowBoarding game for it in senior school and when we turned it on i was really proud i didn`t realise that he was only swapping for a couple of months i was sad when it left every time i went into a game shop i would surch for it but they never had it! when i was 8 i had made up with 2 guys who had N.64s and i traded my WWF WarZone for Mission Impossible But it was good but not as good as my thoughts on GoldenEye i soon gave up my interests on my N.64 because we had put it into the attic and i got a blue GameBoy:Color i still dreamed of getting 007 Goldeneye and complete it i then got a PS2 and none of the games matched Goldeneye,it was still on top even after 3 years until i played GTA:Vice City and Driver 2 but i still wanted 007 GoldenEye(I Know it sounds more storyish).But one day i came up with a idea to get 007 GE. my friend who still has his N64 had goldeneye i traded Turok:Rage Warz for it and now i have it but im still styck on "UnderGround facility" level,but i still have the determination 2 complete it my self.I can not play my n64 bcos my GameCube has took its place cos i only have place for 2 consoles.Goldeneye is worth 100/100 points for it fun factor as u know you play James Bond and is set on the Movie and you get a good number of guns and the gore is good you can set bombs and use your watch as a lasergun 2 cut down metal locks and also to kill a Russion Soldier you also get a magnet 2 steal jail keys of the russian guard and make your escape before they send out the "Firing Squad" to gun you down as your Death Penalty in the game you will meet the Russian Soviet Union Army as enemies,Natalya and 006 Travalyen(face) as allies,secret agent scientist(in a disguise) to give you a key and Ourimov and Travalyan Janus(This time the enemy) and Onnatopp as boss enemies.This game will go down as a video game classic along with GTA3/VC/SA,Driver,1,2,3 and others it will be a Legend.
Bye(my review is loing)

Goldeneye 007
Admittedly, Goldeneye 007 started it all. It may very well be the first FPS that was ever created.

There is nothing better than being Bond - brandishing the many weapons at his disposal (and this game has a sizeable arsenal), theQ Gadgets (who can say that they don't think the Watch Laser isn't cool?), and rubbing shoulders with the beautiful women that Bond attracts.

Goldeneye is a great game and will undoubtedly live within the sacred halls of the videogame museum (where other awesome videogames like GTAIII, Super Mario Bros., and GTA: Vice City live) forever. However, it is a bit dated now.

The graphics that seemed cutting-edge in 1995 now appear somewhat blurry. The character models - especially the faces - look blocky and unrealistic.

The music hasn't changed in ten plus years- I still find myself humming the "Statue Park" mission music. The sound produced from firing your weapons also sound awesome today. But the sound effects - especially the grunts and cries of dying enemies - are repetitious and unrealistic. In my opinion, the lack of voice talent also handicaps Goldeneye.

Multiplayer is still just as fun as it was ten years ago. The lack of suitable AI so that you can take on the "computer" by yourself makes multiplayer useless if you are playing Goldeneye alone. There are only a handful of multiplayer modes to choose from, and the combinations of weapons available are small. It would have been better had Rare allowed the player to at least customize which weapons they wanted to use within multiplayer.

In case you think that I am someone who has taken it upon myself to review Goldeneye without playing it, Goldeneye was my favorite videogame for a very long time. However, better videogames that fix the problems associated with Goldeneye have been released. Perfect Dark takes everything that is fun and "cool" from Goldeneye and enhances it. Goldeneye was a good game for its time, but Perfect Dark has all but completely eclipsed it with better multiplayer, cooler weapons, and sharper graphics.

Probably a big help to the N64
Yeah this is one of the classics that blew away everyone (N64 MAGAZINES got better because of it!!!) and bonded friends and family for years on end. There was no other game like it. Empire magazine started writing better games reviews because of it. This was a mental good multiplayer in 1997. We all played this side by side for years. I can't say I have played anything quite like it since. Golden Eye N64. Yeah, those where the days!!! I remember this left Playstation 1 owners in awe. ... Read more

Asin: B00000DMAT
Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. Action and Adventure    3. Military and Spies    4. Goldeneye    5. Nintendo 64 (Nintendo64)    6. N64    7. Action    8. Adventure   

Mario Kart 64
Average Customer Review:
Game Cartridge (01 November, 1999)

US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Mario Kart 64, one of the first games released for the Nintendo 64platform, is an updated translation of the very popular Super Mario Kart for theSuper NES (SNES). And while the game clearly takes full advantage of the graphicspower and speed of the N64, a few components that made the original so compellinghave been left out of this release.

Still, Nintendo's expertise at sucking players into the game world is strongly evident, andMario Kart 64 offers enough challenges to keep players (especially casualgamers) entertained. Placing a familiar Nintendo personality behind the wheel of asputtering kart powered by a 50, 100, or 150-cc engine, the game lets players racecomputerized opponents or up to four other players on a variety of well-designed tracks.Because karts lack the power and speed of race cars, drivers must focus on collectingpower-ups and nonlethal weapons rather than negotiating hairpin turns on two wheels.Grabbing and using on-track items is the heart of the game's fun: a strategically-placedbanana peel sends the unlucky victim into a spin, nailing an opponent with a turtle shelllaunches their vehicle skyward, and a rocket provides a quick boost to near-breakneckspeeds, if only for a moment.

The multiplayer mode provides enormously chaotic fun for up to four players--flip it onat a party and watch the guests congregate around the screen. --Eric Twelker

Pros:

• Well-designed tracks
• Simple controls
• Strong multiplayer appeal

Cons:

• Computerized opponents sometimes pull off questionable feats

... Read more

Features

• New set of courses and racers
• Slick 3-D graphics
• For 1 to 4 players
• Kart racing with the Mario Brothers
• Collect power-ups and nonlethal weapons to get ahead

Reviews (168)

Amazing
This was the first 'Kart' game quite like this.. there isn't any 'Kart' game like this either outside of the Mario franchise. If you think you can find a better Karting game out there, I'd like to see you find it and show me, because from my finds and plays, this is the only game that is worth playing. From DK to Bowser, Peach to Toad, this game has most of the characters that have been involved with Mario in some way. The graphics are great for its time, the sound is fun, the worlds are colorful, the idea is great. Who wouldn't like this game- at ANY age? I'm not sure, but if you don't, you amy need to see a doctor. This is the best Kart game ever, and the best Mario Kart game ever.

Awsome!
This game is so fun. I gave it 4 stars because there is'nt much 2 do. I think this is #1 graphics. Buy this game.

One of funnest games on the N64
Mario Kart 64 Launched with the N64 and it sure did good with the sales but Ultimatley this is disapointing.Mario Kart Succeds in graphics departure but Fails at the boring over and over gameplay that you indure in the game.Don't get me wrong this is a great game but it just pretty much fail to fun factor.Back when I got this game when It first came out I simply loved it but after the next day it kind of got boring for me.The game is great but fails with the overuse of boring driving and nothing exciting happens.If it were up to me I would have addes some really cool Driving maze level(yeah it does sound lame but what ever)

In Graphics the game is simply superb.It really does make the N64 a really good lookin' system.The level desighning and great setups make it one of the better looking N64 back in the days when it was still popular..It truly does make some Ps games look like crap.

The sound is pretty average...ehh I rather not go into that..

NOW.......The gameplay..
It just get's boring after awhile and nothing special happens and the single player is pretty short.But cool......
And that's pretty much it.

The Multiplayer is pretty fun.I had a blast playing it with my friends.It really is fun but like I said before...Nothing special.

When it all comes down to this.The boring yet kind of fun gameplay, Great Graphics but doesn't help gameplay, Really fun MP but still fails to succeed in fun factor(well atleast to me)

I give Mario Kart 64 a 3.4 stars out of 5

Lates.. ... Read more

Asin: B00000DMAX
Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. Racing    3. Cars    4. Cart (mariocart)    5. Nintendo 64 (Nintendo64)    6. N64    7. Racing (Race, Races)    8. Flying (Fly)   

F-Zero X
Average Customer Review:
Game Cartridge
list price: $59.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Reviews (39)

Over rated.
(...)

I love F-Zero on the SNES and I was anxiosly trying to get my hands on a copy of this version. And finaly when I did I am very disapointed. the graphics are crap, the 3D polygons have no detail and the background is the same every time. Why can't there be a car that has all A catagorys, even if it's next to impossible to unlock, why couldnt they make the superior machine?

The race hardly goes fast enough. The only 2 tracks I did like where the ones with a tube pipe thing you drive on, like driving the outside of a tube, not the inside. And another track that had quite a few leaps and jumps... but over all, I still would rather be playing the original and best on the SNES. They should have included the SNES version on the 64 cartridge as a side game or something.

Overall:
Graphics: 3/10
Sound: 5/10
Controls: 9/10

This game might be better on multiplayer, but even a tho I have now unlocked every car and track up to the X round. I do have 30 days to return it if I dont want it, and I think I will be returning it. It's a rental game; tho you may not be able to rent them from too many places anymore, it makes me feel better that it will be out of my hair and I wont have it collecting dust rather then be going to someone else who might enjoy it more then I did.

I thought they would have learnt from the SNES version that the game needs a cheat for infinite turbo boosts... that doesnt require a gameshark.

thisis the second fastest racing game i ever played
theres a bunch of super fast space planes racing through unbelivable courses at speeds as high as like 800-900 mph!its hard to hang on!there are lots and lots of ships to choose from.there are some really cool side games too.whats that you say?sounds like suicide?well,yes.thats quite true.you will wreck and die a lot.but youve got to learn to make split second deciions.so learn to anticipate!its great fun!

Faster Blood Falcon. Kill! Kill!
Let me just say this. Out of all racing games I've played for the Nintendo 64, only Diddy Kong Racing and Mario Kart 64 are more fun. Okay. With that said, let's explore the various components of gameplay in a random, unorganized order. What I found really compelling is the awe-inspiring cast of characters. 30 racers, each with their own personality and life story, is quite a hefty amount. Another thing this game excelled in was the sense of SPEED! While Star Wars Episode I Racer went just as fast if not faster, that game didn't present you with the sense of speed F-Zero X does! Sometimes it can get overwhelming, and that sends you flying off the track, where (if you're playing multiplayer) allows you play a rather fun slots game in which you can still affect the action on screen. The ability to completely wipe out opposing racers with a slight double press of R or Z really adds great strategy in the single-player mode. And Death Race. Oooh...that is a classic!Tracks are well-designed. Boosts. You won't win without them. They can get quite annoying, since if you miss one, you're pretty much screwed, at least in multiplayer. Single player AI is pretty dumb.

I don't really remember much of the music. Recently, I was able to use VGMusic (great site) to listen to F-Zero X MIDIs, and based on what I heard, it didn't seem very impressive. Perhaps it's because these rock-like guitar riffs don't appeal to me. Give me soft jazz, western, or classic any day! Sound effects stick better in my mind, and they are pretty good. The thing that sticks out the most is probably the wail as you fall...off...the...track...KABOOM! Visually, F-Zero X had been kind of lacking. The textures were bleh, and the backgrounds were just fog or clouds. Even though it's not visually or aurally appealing, F-Zero X is still an extremely fun game to play.
... Read more

Asin: B00002STH5
Sales Rank: 2070
Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. Racing and Flying    3. Nintendo 64 (Nintendo64)    4. N64    5. Racing (Race, Races)    6. Flying (Fly)   

Final Fantasy Chronicles
Average Customer Review:
CD-ROM

US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Showcasing enhanced versions of the Super Nintendo classics FinalFantasy IV and Chrono Trigger, Final Fantasy Chronicles is amust-have "retro" bundle for the serious role-playing game fan.

Originallyreleased in the U.S. in 1991 as Final Fantasy II, the groundbreakingFinal Fantasy IV introduced the "Active Time Battle" combat system thathas since become a staple in the series. In addition to new computer animationsequences and minor gameplay enhancements, this reissue sports a new dialoguetranslation that is more faithful to the Japanese version and fleshes out thepreviously pared-down story of a conflicted knight and his quest forredemption.

Although not as well known as Final Fantasy IV--and noteven part of the Final Fantasy series, for that matter--1995's ChronoTrigger is a nonlinear adventure game where players must travel across timeto save a princess (and the world in the process). New Japanese cartooncutscenes from animator Akira Toriyama (creator of Dragonball Z) gracethe updated Chrono Trigger, and an extras mode (filled with game-relatedgoodies that must be unlocked) has been added, increasing the already highreplay value of this title with multiple endings.

Admittedly, the games'two-dimensional graphics and simplistic sounds are quite "lastgeneration," which may turn off some younger gamers and recent converts to thegenre, but their solid gameplay, deep storyline, and memorable characters arestill first-rate by today's standards. --Joe Hon

Pros:

• Brings together two classic Super Nintendo role-playing games
• Retranslated text of Final Fantasy IV more faithful
• Extras mode increases Chrono Trigger's replay value
• New animated "movie" sequences

Cons:

• In-game graphics and sounds are quite dated

... Read more

Reviews (139)

The Best Role-Player AND How To Fix the Load Time Problem
I've noticed a couple people complain about the load times (especially during battles).There's a quick and easy fix for PS2 owners: In the main menu under the PS1 Driver, there's a setup option for "Fast Loading".When you turn that on, the game will load as fast as the original cartridge did.Problem solved.

.

And now for the game: Chrono Trigger is one of, perhaps even *the best*, role-playing game ever made.Final Fantasy 6 is my favorite in that series, but Chrono Trigger has a stronger appeal for me, personally, because of the time travel/sci-fi theme.You and your characters travel across several thousand years (from medieval times to a distant, robotic future), in your quest to beat back the bad guys.The battle system allows you to chain your characters together for extra-powerful attacks, which is a unique innovation.Finally, how the game ends is never the same.Like a Choose-Your-Own-Adventure, the ending varies depending upon how you play the game.Chrono Triggers offers lots of replayability, and is a true masterpiece.


As for FF4, the game is somewhat weak.Many call FF4 their favorite final fantasy, but I was not too impressed.I'd put it somewhere in the middle.It was originally designed to run on the 1980's 8-bit Nintendo, but at the last minute FF4 was upgraded to run on the just-released 16-bit Super Nintendo, and it comes across as primitive, both in graphics and story.Not as good as what came later (FF anthology).


Bottom Line: Buy Final Fantasy 4/Chrono Trigger right now... mainly for Chrono Trigger, but also to satisfy your curiosity about FF4.If you're like me, you'll cherish it forever.

2 for the price of 1. YEAH BABY! (Long, but worth reading)
Final Fantasy Chronicles is such a great game, I don't Know where to start.(!Attention!, If you have a Super Nintendo and have Final Fantasy 4 and Chrono Trigger you don't really have to bother buying this game, unless you want to check out the added features).FF4 is just like the SNES version only its been enhanced with new magic, monsters,items, and CG(computer generated)cinemas and more stuff. I might be wrong, but I heard somewhere that the Playstation version is much harder than the SNES version. This game is quite entertaining, and the storyline is was one of the best I've seen. In my opinion, I thought Final Fantasy 7 was better in every way. Even though FF7 is better than 4. 4 is still a pretty good game. that's about it for FF4.
If you liked Dragonball Z, then your gonna LOVE Chrono Trigger cause it's made by the "Great" Akira Toriyama (you know the guy who made the characters from DBZ).I thought Chrono Trigger was better than FF4 in terms of gamplay,and graphcs. In my opinion, it ties between FF7.(only FF7 has better graphics). Chrono Trigger is the prequel to Chrono Cross. I thought Chrono Trigger was better than Chrono Cross.(Chrono Cross's graphics were much better).Chrono Trigger has VERY little to do with Chrono Cross. Chrono Trigger is about a red haired boy named Crono(NOT CHRONO), that travels through time along with his friends to save the world.
The only thing bad about these two games is that the graphics are quite dated and that it takes a long time to load in Chrono Trigger when you pull out the menu sceen. I don't think Graphics that are a decade old shouldn't bother most gamers. If it does, then I'll beat you up. This game cost less right now than any of those two games did when they where brand new, especailly now in 2005. Chrono Trigger was a rare, hard to find game at that time that usually sold somewhere around $60. right now, it doesn't cost more than $20. To me, FF4 is like an added bonus to Chrono Trigger in the final fantasy chronicles package. It would take a lot more to fully describe this game. I hope this review was helpful to you

P.S. Get Final Fantast 7 while you're at it.

Final Fantasy Chronicles
Even though that most people will overlook this game because it's a PlayStation game that's a re-release of a 16-bit game during a time when we've already moved on to the 128-bit generation, if you're an RPG fan that has yet to play either of these classics, it's a must-have title. With the multiple endings and fantastical game design and lovable characters, Chrono Trigger alone is worth the full price of admission. Add in Final Fantasy IV and you have an astonishing deal that you simply shouldn't pass up. ... Read more

Asin: B00005LOXE
Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. Sony Playstation (Play station)    3. PSX (PS1 PSOne PS (1 one I)    4. Role Playing Games (Game, rpg, rpgs)   

Final Fantasy Anthology
Average Customer Review:
CD-ROM (16 November, 1999)

US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Showcasing two installments of SquareSoft's wildly popular role-playinggame (RPG) series, Final Fantasy Anthology features the U.S. debut of FinalFantasy V, and reintroduces one of the best RPGs of all time, Final FantasyVI, originally released as Final Fantasy III on the Super Nintendo gamingsystem.

Both games are straight Super Nintendo conversions, so their 2-D graphics and 16-bitsounds are admittedly subpar by PlayStation standards. However, SquareSoft has addedbrand-new, beautifully animated movies for both titles, and has given Final FantasyVI the star treatment it deserves by adding a bonus mode where gamers can accessloads of supplementary material, such as artwork and data files on the game's monstersand items. As an extra bonus for hardcore fans, an audio CD featuring music from bothgames is included, making this quite the collector's package.

While Final Fantasy V is one of weaker entries in the series, Final FantasyVI alone is totally worth the price of Final Fantasy Anthology. Endearinglymelodramatic characters, a genuinely epic story line, and rock-solid gameplay makeFinal Fantasy VI just as absorbing today as it was when it was Final FantasyIII. --Joe Hon

Pros:

• Brand-new animated movies and bonus music CD soundtrack
• Reissues Final Fantasy VI, one of the best RPGs ever
• Lots of supplementary material for Final Fantasy VI

Cons:

• Dated graphics and sounds may bother some gamers
• The previously unreleased Final Fantasy V may as well have stayedunreleased

... Read more

Features

• Includes both Final Fantasy V and Final Fantasy VI
• Includes brand-new animated movies and bonus music CD
• Original 2-D graphics and 16-bit sounds
• Includes extra material, such as artwork and data on the game's monsters
• For 1 player

Reviews (201)

The Best Fantasy AND How To Fix the Load Time Problem
I've noticed a couple people complain about the load times (especially during battles).There's a quick and easy fix for PS2 owners:In the main menu under the PS1 Driver, there's a setup option for "Fast Loading".When you turn that on, the game will load as fast as the original cartridge did.Problem solved.

.

And now for the game: FF6 *is* the best version of Final Fantasy made to date (imho).FF7, FF9, and FF10 are also very good, but FF6 got the RPG formula perfect: Great characters, great story, great battle system.If I had to sell all my RPGs, FF6 is the one I would keep & play over-and-over.


As for FF5, the story is rather weak, but the gameplay is really really good, thanks to the job system (like FF10-2).What I like to do with FF5 is to experiment:
- What if I had 4 white mages?
- What if I had 4 black mages?
- What if I had 4 fighters?
- Would I survive the battles w/ such weak teams?

Thanks to its job system, FF5 has a great deal of replayability.Even after you beat the game, you can go back and replay with a completely different team, and new complications (trust me, beating this game with 4 black mages is NOT easy).

Bottom Line: Buy Final Fantasy 5/6 right now.If you're like me, you'll cherish it forever.

i remember a time, not so long ago...
when the name final fantasy on a game box meant something. final fantasy 3(6) represents the best square has ever put out. don't get me wrong, i enjoyed ff1, ff7 and 9 too. i cant speak for ffx2, or 11, as i haven't played them. square, if you are thinking about how to make your next ff, create something as good as ff3(or even just close) and your fans will love you for it. i am glad ff has come to the gamecube, but lets be serious, crystal chronicles is weak...very weak. online capability is ok too, but the strongest point of a good rpg should always be single player. i know that you can make a good game square/enix, you have it in you, so please do us a favor and no more ff10's or crystal chronicles. sorry about the spiel, i highly recommend this anthology, ps2er's(or ps1) shouldnt be without it.

An awesome classic FF game!
Final Fantasy 6 is without a doubt one of the best RPG games on the market! ... Read more

Asin: B00002R28C
Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. Role Playing Games    3. Fantasy    4. Sony Playstation (Play station)    5. PSX (PS1 PSOne PS (1 one I)    6. Role Playing Games (Game, rpg, rpgs)    7. Great Deals (Outlet store)   

Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
Average Customer Review:
CD-ROM
list price: $49.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• 2-D vampire-fighting action game
• Non-linear adventure
• Lots of weapons and secrets allow for great replayability
• Spooky soundtrack adds atmosphere
• For 1 player

Reviews (96)

Best castlevania ever!
Not much to say, but that this is one of the greatest playstation games ever made.And like the title said it is the best castlevania game!

PERFECT.
this game is perfect.i have not a single complaint.take the classic castlevania formula, infuse it with metroid-esque exploration, add upgradable weapons and items, throw in an experience/leveling up system, and you have the pinnicle of side-scrolling action-RPG goodness.this game just drools cool.konami shot itself in the foot a little, because this game is a lot for them them to live up to for future iterations of the franchise

freakin' best Castlevania (and I would know, too)
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night is one of the best castlevanias i have played before, aside from lament of innocence; this is a side-scroller (dont be put off by that), but the gothic backgrounds, the subtle shadows, the intricate detail, is just the tip of the fang. the novel spell- casting system is relatively simple, and you can learn them by randomly holding buttons and/or buying the guide. the alternate endings for this game just give you a huge new thing to do; the enemies lack in intelligence, but they make up for it in numbers, so you are almost constatly fighting, or risking your life, making it an energetic, high-strung game. then, there is the music. oh. my. god! it is absolutely perfect for the game !! beit the place, or fight, the music is gorgeous(get the soundtrack to prove me right)who cares if it is synthesized or not!?! its BEAUTIFUL!!!! a must buy for castlevanians ... Read more

Asin: B00001OWYW
Sales Rank: 340
Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. Sony Playstation (Play station)    3. PSX (PS1 PSOne PS (1 one I)    4. Action Horror   

Need For Speed 3: Hot Pursuit
Average Customer Review:
CD-ROM (16 November, 1999)

US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Few racing games for the PlayStation can approach Need forSpeed III: Hot Pursuit in terms of car selection, track layout, andsheer fun. Combine the game's quality with the fact that it was addedto the PlayStation's bargain Greatest Hits collection, and youhave a title that deserves to be in the library of any racing fan.

Hot Pursuit gets its name from our favorite mode of gameplay, inwhich players try to exceed the reach of the long arm of the law bygreatly exceeding the speed limit. The ultimate goal is to beat youropponent to the finish line, but usually it's hard enough just dodgingoncoming traffic, swerving around police roadblocks (complete withspike strips), and trying to keep pursuit vehicles from slamming youoff the road. It's nearly as fun to watch replays as it is to race, andwe've only discussed one of the game's five types of play. Thisdiverse, fast-paced racer is definitely a keeper. --T. ByrlBaker

Pros:

• Nearly perfect arcade racing action
• Nice graphics, special effects, and sounds

Cons:

• Some modes of play are incredibly difficult
• Can't play as the police

... Read more

Features

• Fast paced arcade racing game
• Use radar, dispatchers, and roadblocks to track down speeders
• Race on 8 challenging tracks
• Hot pursuit on both sides of the law, including being tracked by the chopper
• For 1 or 2 players

Reviews (24)

Need For Speed 3: Hot Pursuit explained
THIS GAME ROCKS!!!!!!THAT'S ALL THERE IS TO IT!!!

AWSOME GAME EVER!
This is a very fun game for my Play Station. I was able to play my new game in the car while we were going home. 3D graphics
are great for the system. So race this new game on your TV or
using a LCD screen to connect to your console. A must by game.

AWSOME GAME EVER!
This is a very fun game for my Play Station. I was able to play my new game in the car while we were going home. 3D graphics
are great for the system. So race this new game on your TV or
using a LCD screen to connect to your console. ... Read more

Asin: B000038ABJ
Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. Sony Playstation (Play station)    3. PSX (PS1 PSOne PS (1 one I)    4. Ground race racer racing car auto automobile   

Mega Man 8
Average Customer Review:
CD-ROM
list price: $24.99 -- our price: $14.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• 14 unique levels
• Japanese anime-inspired 2-D graphics
• For 1 player
• Mega Man must save the world from 2 killer robots and Dr. Wiley
• Full-color anthology booklet included

Reviews (36)

review
The megaman 8 game has awesome originals such aas doc. willy.
it has decent graphics and is overall a blast. megaman could stand to have a bit more powerfull attacks though.

8 and still going strong
If your an older gamer or just someone who likes older game series you have probaly played Megaman (the original series not X,Legends,Zero,or Battle Network) I remember when I first got my NES when I was 5 and Megaman 2 I loved that game and still do so I saw Megaman 8 for playstaition decided I should check up on this series (I'm more of a Megaman X fan) from the opening movie which is shown in stunning anime to the ending credits this game is flawless the story begins with 2 strange robots fighting in the deep reaches of space when they injure each other so bad that they crash land into earth and Megaman heads to investigate when he gets there Dr. Wily (for you noobs Megaman's main enemy) is carrying off one of the robots which has very evil very powerful energy Wily is harnesting so Megaman helps the second robot and heads after Wily so the battle begins with your standard 4 bosses Clownman,Grenademan,Frostman, and Tenguman(my personal favorite) and after they are done your next four appear Swordman,Astroman,Searchman, and Aquaman(not to be confused with the DC comics hero) you Megaman veterans already know where this is going even though the game is standard Megaman format that same format is perfect and if it ain't broke don't fix it

Graphics wise the game rules its 2D but very good looking 2D the enemies and backgrounds are very detailed I could just stare at them all day but I won't but anyway you older gamers will admit this is a huge step up from NES and SNES(remember the old square shots that would pass off as bullets in the old games?) Megamans graphics Megas little pellet shots even look good his charge up shots have detail and just the basic movements of running jumping and sliding look pretty good

Sound hows the sound you ask? Great the music for each stage is good and even the voice acting in the cut scences is nicely matched also having the cut scences in anime was a great idea seeing Bass and Megaman duke it out in anime is really great to see it really makes the carnival level more fun when you have carnival music as your background all also when you're going through a labyrinth in Astromans stage the music really sets the mood for how strange the level is these are just some examples as all the music really does a good job of setting the mood for fun

Fun factor is what makes this game so great is that there are so many diverse challenges in levels and ways of getting around such as snowboarding,flying via the Rush Jet and even swinging on vines in a jungle so many robots to destroy so little time also there are added challenges like finding 40 bolts that Roll (once again for you noobs Megaman's sister) will make upgrades for Megaman with and its not as hard as some other Megaman installments so if you're rusty on the series or new to it this would be a good place to start basic Megaman formula still is around if you beat a boss you obtain his power example: if you beat Clownman you get his power the Thunder Claw even though I have beaten the game several times I still find myself playing it

The Bottom line here is that Megaman 8 is another perfect Megaman game that seems to just get better with every installment that needs to be in everyones Playstaition collection 10/10

By the way for those of you who agree with my review lets hope for Megaman 9 soon

Almost classic!
Anyone who was a fan to the old Nintendo Megaman series will enjoy this game.
Just as in the old games, you get to battle eight enemies and in the end, beat them again in Wily tower and defeat the two stages of doctor Wily.
Unfortunately, there are some some cons:
you don't get to use rushjet when you want toand theother rush powers are kinda stupid, and the voices on this game are reallly wimpy.
Power ups are limited, so you should choose carefully.
Pros:
Good graphics and challanging levels.You won't beat this game without continuing a few times.
You can get power ups when you get enough bolts to buy one.
There are new enemies.Always a plus.
New and interesting plot.
Memory card, so you don't have to write down passwords.

All in all, it's a great game.Definately worth buying. ... Read more

Asin: B00002STJH
Sales Rank: 5708
Subjects:  1. Action Science fiction (scifi sci fi)    2. Eight (VIII)    3. Megaman megaman8    4. Video Games    5. Sony Playstation (Play station)    6. PSX (PS1 PSOne PS (1 one I)