3D Dot Game Heroes Review for PlayStation 3 (PS3)

System: PS3	Review Rating Legend
Dev: Silicon Studio	1.0 - 1.9 = Avoid	4.0 - 4.4 = Great
Pub: Atlus	2.0 - 2.4 = Poor	4.5 - 4.9 = Must Buy
Release: May 11, 2010	2.5 - 2.9 = Average	5.0 = The Best
Players: 1	3.0 - 3.4 = Fair
ESRB Rating: Everyone 10+	3.5 - 3.9 = Good

The gameplay in 3D Dot Game Heroes is amazingly nostalgic, and it's easy to become enamored with it instantly if you have fond memories of playing old 8-bit games. However, the game also takes great lengths through its dialogue to remind you of old games. There are little references to plenty of classics from gaming's "Golden Age" including titles like The Legend of Zelda ("It's dangerous to go alone" is one of the first lines you'll read in the game), the early Mario games, Dragon Age, and even the original Metal Gear. These little in-jokes will be lost on players that never experienced these titles, and I can't help but feel that younger players might be a little bit turned off by all the reference-based dialogue. Still, if you consider yourself among the "old school" set, there are plenty of funny moments in the dialogue that you'll certainly appreciate.

3D Dot Game Heroes screenshot

Technically, this game isn't very advanced, but its presentation really helps players get into that "retro" mindset. The visuals are all pixel-based, but since they are rendered in 3D, the game's world comes off looking a bit like Legoland. However, the pixel-based characters and universe have an amazing amount of charm, and the "cute" factor is definitely at work here.

The music in the game follows a similar template. Though not technically impressive, the 8-bit-sounding chiptunes are incredibly catchy and instantly nostalgic. The music in the game is one of its best features, and through the score is extremely simplistic, you'll find yourself humming along to the tunes in 3D Dot Game Heroes long after you have turned off the system.

3D Dot Game Heroes is one of those rare titles that succeeds by not adding anything new to the gaming world. When you pick this title up, you'll definitely have some déjà-vu, and it's hard not to feel like you've played this title before. Still, even though the formula is almost exactly like The Legend of Zelda, and the game doesn't have much story or dialogue beyond reference jokes, 3D Dot Game Heroes is a lot of fun, and shouldn't be missed by retro gaming fans. Though the adventure might not be long, at $40, this is one title that you don't have to invest a lot of time or money into, but you'll end up getting a lot out of it.

By Amanda L. Kondolojy
CCC Staff Contributor

RATING OUT OF 5

RATING DESCRIPTION

3.9

Graphics
The 3D pixel-based world has a very unique look, and though it's not technically dazzling, its visual style makes up for it with plenty of charm.

3.8

Control
Control scheme is very simple and only involves single-button attacks and a menu-based interface.

4.9

Music / Sound FX / Voice Acting
Chiptune-like music recalls the soundtracks of classic games, and is delightful to listen to.

3.7

Play Value
The experience is quite nostalgic, and the game features plenty of side quests and special missions to extend the experience.

4.0

Overall Rating - Great
Not an average. See Rating legend above for a final score breakdown.

Game Features:

A long, long time ago, the Dark King Onyx brought an age of darkness upon Dotnia Kingdom. Only by the bravery of a hero with a legendary sword was Onyx sealed in an orb, restoring peace to the world. But Fuelle, a powerful Dark Bishop, has stolen the orb, and with it, peace. Dotnia requires a hero once more! Can you live up to the legend?

Ultimate retro love letter: Seamlessly fusing new and old, the golden era of gaming is felt in every detail of this lovingly-crafted adventure. Eye-popping visuals capture the nostalgic charm of pixel graphics in cutting edge 3D. Simple, but deep action-adventure gameplay is a throwback to the 8-bit era. Veterans will find references and jokes that pay homage to the great games of yore.

Awe and adventure live again: Embark on the next generation of classic exploration and discovery in a grand story-based quest. A hero sets out to gain the power of the six sages and the six orbs that protected the kingdom of Dotnia, which now stands on the verge of destruction.

Customize your hero: When pixels are your building blocks, the possibilities are unlimited. Freely edit the look of your character, or design one completely from scratch, and then trade designs with friends via a compatible USB storage device. Your hero's blade is also upgradeable, letting you add length and width to create a sword that fills the whole screen.