This Prince of Persia brings players back to an awe-inspiring series of environments only found in a franchise such as this one. The beautiful lands of Persia, magnificent buildings, and breathtaking ruins transport players to a nearly magical world that’s difficult to leave. Whether it’s submerged in darkness or healed by the power of light, everything looks amazing. The gorgeous cell-shaded graphics have been carefully designed and colored, almost as if it was a classic book or a nice painting.

The characters seem like drawings come to life, only they sport vibrant colors and genuine facial expressions and postures that make their personalities come through. The Prince is in very good shape and seems very self-confident (sometimes too much), though he also has a sweet side. Elika, on the other hand, is a strong and beautiful woman, very agile, and determined to make things happen one way or the other.

The adventure is accompanied by a remarkable musical score that seems right out of a movie. It will surprise players with exciting up and downs that will often help change the mood and pace of the gameplay. Voice acting is equally distinguished, with engaging voices that make the characters come alive and reflect their personalities. If you can’t get enough of it, the left trigger makes the Prince engage into diverse conversations with Elika about the lands, the enemies, and other affairs, sometimes involving particular feelings. Sound effects are not as noticeable when compared to everything else, but they do a nice job of helping you feel like part of the adventure.

Other than the great adventure provided, there isn’t much else to do in this game. There are just a few things to unlock like original artwork and four interesting skins to dress up the Prince and Elika for the next round. One of them is Altair from Assassin’s Creed, and the rest…you’ll have to find out! If you enjoy obtaining achievements and trophies, you can’t complain. Especially when you start, you’ll be getting these left and right, making the accomplishments feel almost ironic.

Prince of Persia is a wonderful and nearly magical game. It’s not very long but it’s long enough, as it will entail around 10-14 hours of continuous platforming and fighting, even if you don’t try to pick up the 1001 Seeds of Light. The flow and excitement of the gameplay as well as the dramatic visual style will get you hooked for hours to come. I doubt there will be many people who don’t like it, as it’s equally engaging for players and viewers sitting next to you. The only trouble may come when they want you to pass the controller! Do yourself a favor and give this game a try. The only way you wouldn’t like it is if you don’t like platforming, and if you’re reading this, that’s not the case, right?

By Maria Montoro
CCC Site Director