Azure Striker Gunvolt Game Review
PRODUCTION INFO
Azure Striker Gunvolt is a platforming game developed by Inti Creates and produced by Takuya Aizu for direct sale on the 3DS eShop. The game was released in Japan on August 20, 2014 and in North America on August 29, 2014.
GAMEPLAY
Azure Striker Gunvolt is a side-scrolling platform game that has a similar play style comparable to the Megaman Zero series. Your main character is named Gunvolt, who can perform movements such as jumping and dashing. The game's main focus is on his ability to tag an enemy unit with his weapon, allowing him to electrocute his enemy with his unique ability.
Gunvolt's electricity is not unlimited and has a recharging bar located at all times on screen. The game also has a score system similar to Devil May Cry where they must keep up a "Chain" for a better rank in each level. Chains are scored by how many enemies are killed using the tag system and on how well you can avoid being hit by the enemy.
There are multiple upgrades as well that you unlock by beating the bosses of the game. You can also craft and forge unique equipments that benifit your character, such as items that may give you a double jump or a faster recharge on your electric gage.
STORY
The Sumeragi Group has created world peace in a world full of unique individuals known as Adepts. These Adepts have different abilities such as energy weapons or flight. Hidden from the open, however, the Sumeragi Group is actually experimenting on Adapts in the shadows. Your main character Gunvolt works for QUILL, a group that's only purpose is to put an end to the Sumeragi Group.
In the first mission of the game, You are sent to assassinate an Adept named Lumen. However, due to the fact Lumen is inside a young girl Joule, Gunvolt defects and begins his own mission to protect her.
CHARACTERS
The characters are well done and with completely different personalities, as expected from a Megaman Zero like game. The levels are designed based on the character you have chosen to fight.
Gunvolt is the player character and protagonist in "Azure Striker Gunvolt". His ability with electricity has given him the nickname, "The Azure Striker", which is well known in the world. He is the youthful type who seems all about doing the right thing. He is known for being rebellious and to never go against his principles.
Asimov is the commanding officer and founder of QUILL. He is the one who saved Gunvolt from a Sumeragi facility which he was experimented on. He is looked up to by both QUILL and Gunvolt.
Nova is the Leader of Sumeragi Corporation and the main antagonist of the series. He controls the seven Adepts Gunvolt runs across in the story and wishes to obtain Lumen's "Muse Anthem" Adept powers.
Lumen/Joule is the deuteragonist in the game Azure Striker Gunvolt. Lumen is a projection of Joule's septimal powers. Joule is a 13 year old psychic girl created by Sumeragi Group. Her Muse ability allows her to enchance any other Adepts through the power of song.
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Pros:
- Great OST
- Replay Value high due to score system and Regular/True Ending options
- Likable characters
- Fluent Action Platforming Gameplay
- Included a free copy of MIGHTY GUNVOLT for limited time with purchase
Cons:
- Download Only
- Short Story
Score: 8.5/10
Final Thoughts:
Surprising to many, this game far exceeded my expectations. The tag system leaves the gameplay to new complexity rarely seen in platforming games. The story introduces many unique faces and abilities on enemy bosses, and without throwing out major spoilers there are well done plot twists in the story. I would highly recommend this game to anyone who enjoys the Megaman franchise.
