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WoH: THE NINJAS ARE BACK, AND BETTER THAN EVER |
 Arend D. Hart from StationPlay says (20/Apr/2003): |
Tenchu: Wrath of Heaven
Activision
By Arend D. Hart, Chief Editor
Few series that have moved gamers like the Tenchu series. The first title was released on the PlayStation moments before the original Metal Gear Solid hit the shelves, and the stealthy exploits of the two games succeeded in changing the tides of gaming forever. Both titles forced players to use wit, rather than straight-up power, to dispatch enemies and advance through levels - Tenchu in feudal Japan, MGS in the present. The formula has been copied many times since, but the original MGS and Tenchu titles set a benchmark against which all stealth action titles are measured.
A prequel-sequel to Tenchu was released in 2000, but received mixed reactions from fans due to a smattering of technical issues. It was obvious that the developers had attempted to beef up the game in efforts to please and impress fans, but the aging PlayStation console wasn’t up to the task. True fans enjoyed the title, but wouldn’t admit that it was superior to the original.
With the launch of the PS2, the gaming world waited in restless anticipation for the 128 bit update to the 32 bit classics - in particular an update to MGS. Soon after, MGS2: Sons of Liberty hit the shelves. For the first time, gamers everywhere agreed that the bar had officially been raised in the stealth-action genre. Konami’s sequel shot up the charts and became the new benchmark. But MGS is a militaristic stealth-action title, a genre which is getting more and more populated with similar titles like Syphon Filter and Splinter Cell, and fans were still waiting for a next-generation stealth-action ninja title.
That’s not to say that the PS2 didn’t see its share of ninja titles in other genres, it just didn’t see any to match the mystique of Tenchu. Bushido Blade returned on the PS2, but proved to be a lackluster fighting title. Sega revived Shinobi as a 3D slasher/arcade/action title, but not even his wall-walking exploits could save Shinobi from repetitious gameplay hell. We were all waiting for our Tenchu, and after a long delay - it’s finally arrived - and it was well worth waiting for. While maybe not as groundbreaking as MGS2 was at it’s release, Tenchu is a blast to play and it proves that the series truly belongs on the next-gen systems which finally have enough power to showcase the amazing visuals and detail. Sure, it has some issues - but all games have issues. As a package though, Tenchu:WOH pretty darn sweet, and it justly lives up to the Tenchu reputation.
If you’ve played the previous Tenchu titles, then you’ll feel right at home with Wrath of Heaven. Except for a few minor changes and additions, the characters, settings, weapons and control scheme are all straight out of the prior Tenchu games. Rikimaru and Ayame return as stealth assassins; ridding feudal Japan of corrupt businessmen, rescuing hostages, etc.. But just because Tenchu:WOH doesn’t make any huge gameplay changes from the previous titles, don’t think that that you are getting the standard 128bit graphically spit-shined rehash (See: Gran Turismo 3). See, the difference is that Tenchu finally plays like it’s supposed to - smooth, slick and stealthy. Most of the lagging, nagging issues of the prior releases have been addressed by the newly employed development house, K2, and it makes all the difference. The Tenchu series has always had loads of potential and only now, a half a decade later, are we finally able to fully realize the enjoyment that WOH provides.
So what has been improved? For one, the draw distance has been significantly improved. Any fan of the previous Tenchu titles knows that the underpowered PlayStation couldn’t handle processing the worlds as they were designed, so everything was soaked in a pea-soup fog which did an excellent job of concealing enemies, yet did nothing to camouflage your own character - resulting in a ton of accidental alerts and missed stealth-kill opportunities.
The camera and character controls have also seen considerable upgrading and the two work together to make sneaking a lot less difficult in WOH than in the previous titles. And, since you are awarded for being stealthy (i.e. unlocking special moves for getting nine stealth kills in each mission), the improved control scheme is a welcome change. Many of the button combos have been simplified in WOH as well. For instance, Tenchu 2 had you doing a strange two-button combo for a double-jump (I think it was X-O, and you had to have the timing just right) - now, simply pressing jump twice will suffice. There is still some difficulty when pivoting - especially in the sneaking stance. This may cause some difficulty when lining up for a stealth kill, but the enemy AI is fairly weak (a shortcoming, indeed) so if spotted, simply running out of sight until the heat is off will almost always afford you another crack at getting a clean kill.
As for the stealth kills themselves - due to the relative ease in controlling your character, the improved graphics and the weak AI in WOH, stealth kills are much easier to perform than on the previous releases and each of every one looks a heck of a lot better on the PS2. If you’re not familiar with Tenchu’s stealth kills, it’s pretty simple; there are numerous ways to skewer a person, and most every imaginable method is available here. Based on how you approach the victim (from the right side, from the left side, from above, from the front, etc.), if you can successfully sneak up on a guard without alerting him of your presence, you will be awarded with a one-hit stealth kill cutscene. Generally, you’ll see the more common approach from-behind scenes of your character slitting the throat (and sometimes decapitating) the guard. But there are those special circumstances where you get to approach from the less-practical angles and are presented with a handful of spectacularly gory scenes. You’ll find yourself hooked on nailing the stealth kills - if not for the awards presented after nine stealth kills, at least to speed the game up a bit (since stealth kills are one-hit while actual swordplay with the guards can prove very dangerous and time consuming).
Obviously, there are some weaknesses in Tenchu-WOH. I’ve already alluded to the AI issues which have caused many reviewers to, in my opinion, unfairly trash this title. I mean - true, the AI is pretty stupid in WoH. They guards and ninjas either stand in one place and pivot a set amount at a set frequency, or pace about in unwavering patterns. As I said before, when spotted, simply running away will silence the guards’ curiosity - and if on some small chance the guards take chase, more often than not they will get stuck on corners. With titles like MGS2, Splinter Cell, and even the old Syphon Filter series all having good-to-great enemy AI, the AI in WoH is nearly inexcusable - and more akin to a poorly designed platformer than the top-shelf stealth action title it is. But I did say that it was nearly inexcusable, because although it is disappointing, the game still plays well and would be fairly difficult, if not impossible, to play if the AI characters were constantly chasing you around and alerting the other guards. So, the AI is definitely a black mark, but not a big enough one to ruin the game for me.
I also had some issues with the controls as well. I mentioned that the controls were greatly improved from the previous titles - and that is true, but it still doesn’t mean that the controls are perfect. I still had a heck of a time sneaking around corners and partitions, where my ninja would stick trying to figure out whether I wanted him to pivot, strafe or go back-to-the-wall. And, thinking of that reminds me of another control issue - it’s quite aggravating when sneaking up on guard (i.e. crouching through a stand of waist-high bushes) only to have your character come to what the game deems as too close to a wall and suddenly pop up into the back-to-the-wall pose in plain view of the guard. And even though the enemy AI is generally pretty stupid, either the motion or the sound or a combination always seem to set the guards off if this ever happens.
All in all though, I have to say that Tenchu: Wrath of Heaven is an awesome ninja title. It may not be the end-all-be-all of the gaming industry, but is the best ninja title available for any console right now, and I’m having a really difficult time putting WoH down so I can play some of the other games I need to review. It’s a great title and if you’re into this kinda thing, then I would suggest you give this game a try. Diehard Tenchu fans will be blown away, ninja fans will be amazed, and the casual gamer will be pleased. A definite must-rent for all, and a must-buy for most.
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Get a Peek at Tenchu 3 |
| StationPlay says (24/Jan/2003): |
You know you're excited about Tenchu 3, or else you wouldn't be here, right? You already know that the original Tenchu was one of the first "Stealth Action" games for the console market, and has influenced dozens of games with it's cinematic stealth kills and sneaking. The second Tenchu improved on the first in many ways, but was sadly hampered by the outdated PSone hardware. but you know, you really don't give a rat's ass about the past, right? All you care about is seeing your stealth assasins on in glorious 128bit splendor, right?
Well, your wish will soon be granted, Honorable Grasshopper, and it's looking like Tenchu 3 will be much better than we previously expected. An insider has given us the key to some exclusive screenshots. Just check out these pages and see for yourself:
Click this Daniel-san:
Tenchu 3 Pics
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Awesome but not amazingly awesome |
| Antwon from jacksonville fl says (6/Apr/2003): |
The game should be alot harder. In the sense that being spotted can almost make it impossible to beat the level. For instance in medal gear solid if you are spotted. The sound an alarm, and everyone in that area is aware of your presence. Thats how tenchu should be. I saw a ninja I would be alert the whole time I was on duty. Other than that it was a great game.
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Tenchu 3 is the best yet! |
| Otaku-Chan ^_~ from Saratoga Springs, NY says (22/Mar/2003): |
I must say that I had my doubts at first, but after actually playing the 3rd installment of Tenchu, I realized it is the best of the 3. The analog stick thing was tough to get used to, but once I did, the game was much easier and more enjoyable. Each level is unique and difficult, which makes the game fun and challenging. I also love the graphics which bring our favorite nija duo into a new light ^_^. Lastely, I love the overall atmospheres in each level...from tranquil to down right scary! The cemetary board had me freaked out a lot ^^;;. I give this game an A+!!!
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Nozomeru Hei, tatakau mono, kaijin wo hari, retsu wo tukutte, mae ni ari |
| Jenova from Guernsey, Channel islands says (23/Mar/2003): |
Tenchu-3 Is great.
Having played 1&2 I was really looking forward to this one, the charecters, levels and enemies look great as do the combat moves.
Both charecters have a differnt feel with Rikimaru being the older stoic ninja, while Ayame has more acrobatic moves.
The controls are well thought out and responsive, tho some of the combat moves can be hard to get the hang of.
Its a violent game with each of the 3 charecters having 6 or more special stealth kills which when done treat you to a bloody cinamatic.
Overall my only complaint with the game was that it just wasnt long enough.
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I really like the game, BUT the CAMERA!!!!!! |
| Drew from Tarzana, CA, USA says (25/Mar/2003): |
I really like this game for what it tries to be and the tradition it has, but the camera in this game is like a completely separate foe that you have to fight the WHOLE time you are playing this game. The camera at every turn is trying to defeat you as it makes your main objective- stealth, nearly impossible because you can't see around that corner, up/down those stairs, out of that hole etc. But I still like the game none the less.
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good but needs inprovement |
| A gamer from Brisbane, Australia says (8/Apr/2003): |
Firstly I would like to congratulate the whole Tenchu crew for a cleverly conscripted sequel to 1+2. But in saying that, i believe there is still more that is needed to be added to create the perfect tenchu game (No.4?)??? The ability to drag the body should of been left in the third cause it gets so frustrating when you think you have done the perfect kill and then the AI some how see's the body and bye bye GRANDMASTER!!!! The one thing that i think is a brilliant addition to the game is the ability to do Co Op. The only thing is that it should be longer and alot more difficult but have the essence of the one player mode. Meaning to finish the stage, both players need to assist each other along the way by taking out one AI so the other can proceed. Just some food 4 thought. But looking at Tenchu 3 Wrath of heaven in all, it just goes to show that the good old stealth games are still on everybodies wanting list and this game shows that the future of these styles of games can only get bigger and better! Look out if there is tenchu 4 cause its gunna be one hell of a game!! RATINGS- Graphics-9 Playability-9 Overall-__9__
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The spirt of the Ninja will live on 4ever |
| KyoSiko from Amarillio, Texas says (14/Apr/2003): |
When I first poped in this game I really liked it Rikimaru being my favorite character of course the graphics have obviously improved being on Ps2 Rikimaru looks more how should I say it masculine and Ayame looks more Asian the fighting system is so much better Activision has added more hand and feet action like the spin kick and the low spin and the special move the shoulder thrust which I found very usefull when eluding enemies that have spotted me. The one character I wanted to replace the third character was Tatsumaru in my opinion he is the best character in the series of Tencu even though he is a playable character in 2 player versus mode and kicks serious butt!!!!!!!!! he is not a playable character in story mode which angered me very much that is my only fault in this game other wise this game is incredible.
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FLY BABY |
| Liquid from USA says (30/Jul/2003): |
Let me just say this plain and simple.Tenchu game is for from wow but behind excellent but that doesn't matter the co op and versus battle saves it's ass . the only worst part in the game that I could ever imagine was the voice of onikage WHO IN THE HELL MADE THAT VOICE.Anyway the thing I really like the most was the versus because nobody is a better character then tajima (in case you don't know he has a sword and a gun even though he's a dante wannabe he still rocks)ah I can still hear those damn words when he points the gun at the guys gut. FLY BABY BAAAAAM.
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Tenchu Wrath Of Heaven Da One And Only |
| Brixie1or2 from london says (4/Nov/2003): |
Iplayed Tenchu Wrath Of Heaven an d 2 me i thought this was a really good title for ps2. The only thing is that it is just exactly like the original first one but just looks graphically better. The gameplay sound and graphics are just truelly brilliant and cool and i would personally add this 2 my ps2 best titles collection. If you want ninja,stealth,action,tactics,and just pure gameplay from start 2 finish Tenchue is da one!.
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The best ninja game around!-tenchu:Wrath of heaven |
| Jonathan.Z from Sydney Australia says (12/Jan/2004): |
Tenchu is by far the greatest ninja game in existence.It provides players with beautiful graphics,advanced array of weaponry,a new character to use,new bosses as well as an old one(Onikage),excellent story line and plot,excellent gameplay and it also maintains its original characters(Rikimaru and Ayame).
I also found the newly added abilities fun and useful to use.Especially the grappling hook combo and the one where you can cling to the ceiling.I also found it good that there was a large amount of stages to play as well as a bonus one.Its also good that the players don't repeat themselves all the time like other ps2 ninja games.
One thing that i did think that needed work was the bonus character(Tesshu).I found it kinda sucked that he didn't have a sword or a weapon of his own appart from his fists.Well.......at least you can charge up the last hit of his combo by holding down the attack button to do extra damage.
Another thing that was good about the game is the sound is good.The guards can be seen having a conversation sometimes witch was really interesting!
One more thing that i liked about Tenchu is that the stealth kills are graphically better and look so cool.You can even cut their heads off some times!(i found i could only do this with Ayame)
Anyway sorry this review dragged on a bit but i found nothing appart from good things to say about Tenchu:Wrath Of Heaven-The best ninja game in the WORLD!
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Boring? Yes. |
| Ronnerman from Atl, GA says (14/Mar/2003): |
This game is kinda boring compared to the first two. Its one major flaw that ruins the game for me is that they force you to use that damned analog joystick thing. Am I the only person that hates those stupid things? What happened to old-school cross-key contol pads? This game looks good, but the control is way too sloppy with that stupid joystick. I can't make it through the first stage w/o being seen because I can't control Rikimaru and fall off of roofs and accidentally roll out in front of an enemy.
I can't return it because I tossed the reciept, I should've gotten Z.O.E. 2.
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PLAY!Tenchu 3: Wrath of Heaven! |
| James Harrison from Leeds England. says (15/Mar/2003): |
Tenchu 3: Wrath of Heaven is exelent!The gameplay is wicked,the graphics are o.k and the moves and special attacks are cool e.g jump on an enemys back and stab them though the top of the head and you will see the end of the sword come through the bottom of their gob(mouth)!Warning,as you have probably guesed,this is not a game for the squiemish blood will spurt everywhere when you slash,attack,cut,impale and stab an enemy.Every mission is jam packed full of tension,stealth and gore.In conclusion my overall score for Tenchu 3:Wrath of Heaven is 9 out of 10!If you want any tips or cheats on PS2 or PS1 games email me at bladevamps< remove me > at yahoo.co.uk
By James Harrison.
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Above mediocre, below amazing. |
| The invisable monkey...OF DOOM! from Owen Sound, Ontario Canada says (23/Mar/2003): |
Tenchu 3 is an fun experience, however it suffers from some of the most annoying faults which can make it very frustrating. The pros are: It offers a fun,challenging game, has nice crisp graphics and has a nice multiplayer engine. Now the negatives: The camera is incredably screwy, as soon as you get hit it seems to fly into a random angle, but the camera problems don't end there. If you get into a tight space you cannot rotate the camera or see your enemy and at the worst times, even yourself. In general it is an average and fun experience.
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Frustrating but all in all a decent game |
| Tony from London, England says (23/Mar/2003): |
The graphics and game-play are a major improvment in comparison to Tenchu 1 and 2. The levels are "alot" longer which leaves room for hours of frustration as the analogs provide an unstable element to hanging on ledges above pitfalls considering there are no in-game saves or save points once you fall you have to start all over again even if you are moments away from the end. The multi-player is fun but limited in scanarios. All in all a decent game and most certainly worth buying.
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Almost there... |
| oni_kage from Ca, USA says (24/Mar/2003): |
Wrath of Heaven harkens back to the first game and in doing so redeemed itself from #2. All in all a good game. The two areas that I have a problem with are the controls when one is trying to roll. I don't know how many times I've been spotted because I wanted to roll away from a corner and ended up rolling the wrong way and turning. Which brings me to my second problem. The enemy A.I. When spotted all one really has to do is run around a corner or jump/hook to a roof and just sit. They give up too easily. Other than these two issues everything else is great.
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I give it 8/10 stars.Overall-great game |
| EliteSniper from Rockledge,FL says (29/Mar/2003): |
Tenchu3 has surpassed its previous 2 in so many areas,and added some new stuff as well.The new ninja abiites you get for using stealth techniques was a great idea,although all 3 ninjas could use more abilities.Getting stealth kills was a little too easy for me,although it can be a lot more chalenging for newer players.And one thing it lacked i thought was an online multi.Think of the possibilites.And it wouldve been cool if you could play as tatsumaru in singleplayer.This game is good for rentals AND buying. Rating-graphics-8 sound-8 gameplay-7 storyline-9 entertainment-9 Overall rating-9
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Only 3??? |
| Adam from Canada, Ontario says (29/Mar/2003): |
I would like to start off with the things that I did not like. One thing is that in the story mode or multyplayer co-op, you only get to choose from 3 characters. Also, when I played against my bro in multyplayer versus, there was a bunch of guys to choose from(have to unlock them), that was cool, but there was only 3 guys that had "stealth" moves. For the good things, the graphics were cool and I liked the "double stealth move". I liked the story line, though I found some of the levels to be abit similar to number 2(same objectives). So to anyone who loves ninja games or Tenshu or anyone else, this is a must game for the PS2.
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Alright in graphics, but could not beat part 2 |
| Venomous from usa says (7/Apr/2003): |
I think that the graphics of the game were incredible but the fact that its a ps2 game, they should have added new stealth kills or something similar. I think they left out a very important assasin Teshumaru.Personally i think that they should have added a little more gore in this game, and a little more moves that go beyond a ninja.And by the way the multi player rules.
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I am a NINJA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! |
| NINJA says (7/Apr/2003): |
Tenchu 3 is the best of the 3 Tenchu. Two thing i do hate about this game is the camera angle and level 5 where you have to fight wooden robots. I think robot and ninja don't go well together. I hated that level so much I use what ever cheat and special magic items to beat the level and get it over with. Where in the world did they get that ideal. Robot in that time.........COME ON MAN!!!!!!!!!!
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