Sin and Punishment: Star Successor - Nintendo Media Summit 2010 impressions

Isn’t it nice to finally have a release date for Sin and Punishment: Star Successor? Just like many of you, I feared that Nintendo was shoving this game further and further away from an actual release. Thankfully that isn’t the case, and now we know that Sin and Punishment: Star Successor will be out here shortly. After today’s demo, the wait is going to be even harder.

This is my second time going hands-on with Sin and Punishment: Star Successor, and this time seemed like it was even more fun. The first thing I noticed about the game had to be the gorgeous graphics. Seeing the final build up and running was a sight to behold. If you’ve been watching the direct-feed videos from Japan, you know how beautiful this game is. Without a doubt, one of the most visually stunning Wii titles.

Of course, the game isn’t all eye candy. This baby packs a major punch in the gameplay department, and gives you something high-intensity and engaging at the same time. We really don’t see this level of high polish from third party developers when it comes to Wii outings. If you love shooters, there’s no doubt in my mind that you’ll have a ridiculously good time with Sin and Punishment: Star Successor.

While the controls are very easy, the game itself is ready to kick your ass at every turn. All you really have to do is point the Wiimote at the screen and shoot. There are some other actions as well, such as a dodge that will become your best friend, but you’ll still be holding your finger on the fire button for almost the entire game. One blink, and you could end up taking a hit that will lead to the end of your run.

For me, the places the camera takes you are what really makes this title fun. Camera angles help to intensify situations, as well as add wonder and mystery as to where you’re going next. Think of it as an on-rails game akin to StarFox. It’s pretty much the same idea, but this title has you piloting a human around the screen instead of an Arwing. I almost feel like the story itself is told by the camera swoops and swings. It’s like being on an amusement park ride that you want to hop on over and over again.

Oddly enough, my favorite part about the combat would have to be the melee attack. All you do is quickly tap the B trigger to slash with your sword, but for some reason it really feels good! I guess when you’re shooting at enemies 95% of the time, thrown in some sword swings helps to keep things fresh.

Sin and Punishment: Star Successor needs to be on your must-have list. It’s going to be one wild ride, and when it’s over you can start climbing the worldwide leaderboards. Trust me, it’s not going to be an easy task to try and keep your combo going for the ultimate high score. While it won’t be easy, it’ll sure be fun!