Some Reviews

Alan Wake

Just finished this game last night so I'll share some thoughts on the experience. Ever since it was announced all those years ago I've been looking forward to this game with great anticipation. Unfortunately, as is so often the case, it disappointed. I'll start with what I enjoyed, firstly the setting is amazing. Bright Falls the games location is the typical mid western American town similar to those found in any number of sci-fi/horror games or Films (Resident Evil, AVP Requiem, Twilight, Twin Peaks etc). The graphics engine for the most part is stunning and I found myself on many occasions simply starring at the wonderful landscapes throughout the world. Save for the odd poor quality texture the graphics are the game's best feature. However, other than the visuals the game left me wanting. When it was announced it was billed as an open world affair, but the game we have gotten all these years later is anything but and each of the games six chapters are linear, and towards the end become somewhat repetitive. As for the story, well I personally thought it was a bit of a mess and the ending didn't exactly leave me anticipating the DLC planned for later in the summer which is meant to continue the narrative, which after a long build-up, ended in a somewhat abrupt manner. Overall though the game was fun and if you hadn't expected more as I had then you'll no doubt fine it more rewarding.







Robin Hood

Directed by Ridley Scott and starring Russell Crowe as Robin Hood this film was high on my must see list and it didn't disappoint, albeit it was a very different film than the one I had imagined. Considering the pedigree of those responsible for the film's production I was expecting something very similar to "Kingdom of Heaven" or "Gladiator". Instead Robin Hood was a more light-hearted film but it was nevertheless highly entertaining. I guess it stayed closer to the source material and character of Robin Hood whereas I was expecting something of a total reimagining. The film contains strong performances from all the cast playing excellent and likable characters (with Cate Blanchett looking as stunning as ever) and the production values including the soundtrack were top notch. Likewise the fight scenes while not nearly as epic as those in "Kingdom of Heaven" or "Gladiator" were well done. In conclusion while it wasn't the movie I was expecting it was very enjoyable and highly recommendable.