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Ghost in the Shell
Score: 96%
ESRB: Teen
Publisher: THQ
Developer: Exact
Media: CD/1
Players: 1
Genre: Action/ Shooter

Graphics & Sound:
Ghost in the Shell’s graphics are superb in quality. You are fairly set as to the character used, which is a “fuchikoma” (just imagine a super smart battle tank that can talk and think). There are quite a few explicit scenes in this game however, so I would suggest this game for those who are 13-years-old or older. Another cool thing is that once you see the FMVs, you can see them again at any time. Sound quality is unsurpassable in this game. The movies you watch are not like those Japanese films you see. You know, the ones where the vocals are ahead of the lip synch. As far as I’m concerned, this game is right on key when it comes to sound and quality. They really outdid themselves at THQ. If you have ever seen the movie “Ghost in the Shell” (Manga), then you can definitely appreciate this game. It will not disappoint you.

Gameplay:
Ghost in the Shell is a mission-based game, and yes, I know they are set missions, but they are well worth it. If you want something that will keep you on the edge of your seat, this is it! There are items you can find such as grenades and energy packs, but they are pretty well hidden sometimes, so you have to pay attention. The same button you use for machine guns is also used for missiles. All you do is hold the button down and it will lock onto your target in sight. This mission-based game is one of the best I have ever seen. Great, if you like that type of game. Most others that I have played bored me mainly because there was nothing to look forward to. Here I had the FMVs to work towards, and that made all the difference. If you like an action-packed, shoot-em-up game, this is it!

Difficulty:
This game is fairly easy to catch onto once you get moving. I would say go ahead with the Training Option first, just to get use to the feel of the controls. There are always a theatre-quality mission briefing at the beginning of each mission, so pay attention or you will miss out. For the most part, this game is fairly easy and captivating until you get to the big bosses. Then be ready for an ass-kicking.

Game Mechanics:
The controls for Ghost in the Shell are a cinch. Once you find your direction, you are set. The radar that you always will see on the screen is very useful. It tells you where your enemies are hiding out. The controls are most definitely what I would call user-friendly. You can dash forward and backward, then slide to the left and right. Viewing your fuchikoma on screen is versatile in that you can change views between being inside the tank and having that three-dimensional effect, which is really cool too. Whether you are an anime fan or not, this game is a must buy.

-Star Flare, GameVortex Communications
AKA Jason Faul

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