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Muramasa: The Demon Blade is a Wii game without the requisite waggle functionality. I’m still not 100% sold on motion-control, but when it comes to Wii titles, I’ve grown to at least expect some sort of half-hearted attempt. Muramasa doesn’t, instead placing the focus on gorgeous hand-drawn visuals and engaging gameplay.
Visuals are Muramasa’s main draw (sorry for the pun). For a few fleeting seconds, I was tempted to post up a bunch of screens, point out the lack of motion controls and mention that I was so hooked that I practically hogged the demo kiosk. Then I remembered my editor wouldn't go for it and I'm sure Ignition wouldn't like finding out I caused a slight traffic jam at their booth.
Similar to Odin Sphere, Muramasa is a side-scrolling action game. It’s something that is about as rare as a waggle-less Wii title, or a Wii game that isn’t some sort of family-friendly mini-game collection, so it’s good to see all convention thrown to the wind.
Muramasa takes place in Feudal Japan and puts you in control of either Momohime or Kisuke. Both follow unique storylines, but are attempting to complete the same mission – collect 108 cursed blades. In Momohime's case, she is possessed by the demon blade. Kisuke, on the other hand, is attempting to keep the blades out of the reach of an evil shogun, all the while trying to regain his memory. In order to complete your mission, you’ll need to travel between sun-drenched countrysides, haunted graveyards and enchanted forests and take on ninjas, demons and anything else foolish enough to get in the way of your blade. Make that blades.
Both characters can equip up to three blades at a time and will eventually earn 108 by game’s end. Each has its own special attacks, but deteriorate with use, so you’ll need to choose wisely when switching them in-and-out during combat. If you pound away on the attack button, you’ll deal loads of damage, but risk breaking your blade. Special attacks cause them to weaken even faster. If it breaks you can still use it, but it deals significantly less damage. This is unique for a brawler, but adds just the right amount of edge to combat.
Swords regain strength when not in use, so you’ll need to balance out how you approach each enemy. You can also collect blue orbs, which will allow your blade to limp along in battle, but won't negate the breaking mechanic completely. If all three blades break, its essentially game over -- particularly when facing bosses. Boss fights aren't particularly tough, but take a lot of punishment before they go down.
Muramasa: The Demon Blade looks great and based on two play-throughs (what can I say, I was hooked), plays even better. It’s already out in Japan and should hit the US in September. |
