Developer: Sanzaru Games

Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal (2014)

by Christopher August 25, 2024

written by Christopher 8 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 2014
Genres: Platform
Platforms: Nintendo 3DS
Developers: Sanzaru Games
Publishers: Sega

Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal: A Shattering Good Time

Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal is a 2014 platformer game developed by Sanzaru Games and published by Sega for the Nintendo 3DS. It is the second installment in the Sonic Boom sub-series, following Sonic Boom: Rise of Lyric. The game follows Sonic the Hedgehog and his friends as they attempt to stop the evil Lyric the Last Ancient from using the Lost Crystal of Power to take over the world.

Shattered Crystal is a 2D platformer with 3D graphics. The game features a variety of levels, each with its own unique challenges and obstacles. Sonic and his friends can use their unique abilities to traverse the levels and defeat enemies. Sonic can use his super speed to run through levels and enemies, Tails can use his gadgets to fly and solve puzzles, Knuckles can use his strength to break through obstacles, and Amy can use her hammer to attack enemies and swing across gaps.

The game also features a variety of boss battles. Each boss has its own unique attacks and弱点s. Players must use their skills and abilities to defeat the bosses and progress through the game.

In addition to the main story mode, Shattered Crystal also features a number of side quests and challenges. Players can collect Chaos Emeralds, race against time, and defeat enemies in special challenges. The game also features a variety of unlockable content, such as new characters, levels, and abilities.

Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the game’s graphics, gameplay, and level design, while others criticized its story, voice acting, and technical issues. Despite the mixed reviews, the game was a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.

Gameplay

Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal is a 2D platformer with 3D graphics. The game features a variety of levels, each with its own unique challenges and obstacles. Sonic and his friends can use their unique abilities to traverse the levels and defeat enemies.

Sonic can use his super speed to run through levels and enemies. He can also use his homing attack to target and automatically home in on enemies. Tails can use his gadgets to fly and solve puzzles. He can also use his tails to attack enemies and swing across gaps. Knuckles can use his strength to break through obstacles. He can also use his climbing ability to reach high places. Amy can use her hammer to attack enemies and swing across gaps. She can also use her hammer to break through certain obstacles.

The game also features a variety of power-ups that can be collected to enhance Sonic and his friends’ abilities. These power-ups include the Speed Shoes, which increase Sonic’s speed; the Rocket Shoes, which allow Tails to fly higher and faster; the Power Gloves, which increase Knuckles’ strength; and the Hammer Gloves, which increase Amy’s hammer power.

Story

The story of Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal begins when Amy discovers a secret ancient language and manuscript detailing the history and whereabouts of a Lost Crystal of Power. The evil and vile villain, Lyric the Last Ancient, kidnaps Amy in his eagerness to get his claws on this long-forgotten power that has been hidden throughout the jungles and canyons of a mysterious new island. Sonic must team up with Tails, Knuckles and new friend Sticks the Badger to trace Amy’s footsteps and save her from the clutches of Lyric and his robot army.

Sonic and his friends must travel across a variety of levels, each with its own unique challenges and obstacles, in order to find the Lost Crystal of Power and defeat Lyric. Along the way, they will face off against Lyric’s robot army, as well as a variety of other enemies.

Characters

Sonic the Hedgehog: The main protagonist of the game. Sonic is a blue anthropomorphic hedgehog with super speed. He is known for his cocky attitude and love of adventure.
Tails: Sonic’s best friend. Tails is a yellow anthropomorphic fox with two tails. He is known for his intelligence and gadgets.
Knuckles: Sonic’s rival. Knuckles is a red anthropomorphic echidna with super strength. He is known for his hot-headedness and loyalty to his friends.
Amy Rose: Sonic’s love interest. Amy is a pink anthropomorphic hedgehog with a giant hammer. She is known for her kindness and determination.
Sticks the Badger: A new character introduced in Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal. Sticks is a brown anthropomorphic badger with a boomerang. She is known for her paranoia and love of conspiracy theories.
Lyric the Last Ancient: The main antagonist of the game. Lyric is a green anthropomorphic snake with a robotic body. He is known for his cunning and desire for power.

Reception

IGN gave the game a score of 7.0 out of 10, saying “Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal is a fun and challenging platformer that will appeal to fans of the Sonic the Hedgehog series. The game features beautiful graphics, tight controls, and a variety of levels to explore. The story is a bit thin, but it’s still enjoyable to play through. Overall, Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal is a great addition to the 3DS library.”
GameSpot gave the game a score of 6.0 out of 10, saying “Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal is a solid platformer with some fun ideas, but it’s held back by a lack of polish and a forgettable story. The game’s graphics are impressive, and the level design is varied and challenging. However, the voice acting is grating, and the game suffers from some technical issues. Overall, Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal is a decent platformer, but it’s not quite as good as it could have been.”
Polygon gave the game a score of 5.0 out of 10, saying “Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal is a disappointing platformer that doesn’t live up to the potential of the Sonic Boom sub-series. The game’s graphics are nice, but the level design is uninspired and the gameplay is repetitive. The story is also forgettable, and the voice acting is grating. Overall, Sonic Boom: Shattered Crystal is a mediocre platformer that’s best avoided.”

Despite the mixed reviews, the game was a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.

Review Score

7/10

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Ninja Reflex (2008)

by Christopher August 11, 2024

written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 2008
Genres: Indie, Simulator
Platforms: Nintendo DS, PC (Microsoft Windows), Wii
Developers: Sanzaru Games
Publishers: Electronic Arts, Nunchuck Games

Ninja Reflex: Master the Art of Speed and Precision

Prepare yourself for an exhilarating journey into the realm of speed, precision, and martial arts mastery with Ninja Reflex (2008). This captivating video game challenges you to become a true ninja gamer, honing your reflexes, hand-eye coordination, and reaction times to the millisecond.

Embark on a Martial Arts Odyssey

Step into the shoes of a skilled ninja and embark on a quest to progress from White Belt all the way to the coveted Black Belt, 3rd Degree. Along your path, you’ll encounter a diverse array of martial arts challenges designed to test your mettle and push your abilities to the limit.

Wield an Arsenal of Ninja Weapons

Master the art of wielding a variety of iconic ninja weapons, including throwing stars, katanas, nunchucks, and even chopsticks. Each weapon possesses unique characteristics and requires precise movements to unleash its full potential. Learn the intricate techniques of each weapon and become a formidable warrior.

Sharpen Your Reflexes

Ninja Reflex employs a series of innovative and engaging challenges that will put your reflexes to the ultimate test. From lightning-fast button-mashing sequences to precise target practice exercises, the game demands quick thinking and unwavering focus. Prepare to have your reaction times measured down to the millisecond and strive for perfection.

Enhance Your Hand-Eye Coordination

The harmonious interplay between your eyes and hands is crucial for success in Ninja Reflex. The game’s challenges require you to track moving objects, anticipate their trajectory, and respond with pinpoint accuracy. Through repetitive practice and unwavering determination, you’ll witness a remarkable improvement in your hand-eye coordination.

Conquer 50+ Steam Achievements

As you progress through Ninja Reflex, you’ll encounter a plethora of challenging Steam achievements that will put your skills to the test. From completing specific challenges within a certain time limit to mastering the use of particular weapons, these achievements will serve as milestones on your journey to becoming a true ninja gamer.

Features:

Immersive martial arts challenges that test your reflexes, hand-eye coordination, and reaction times
A wide range of ninja weapons to master, each with unique characteristics and techniques
Progress from White Belt to Black Belt, 3rd Degree, and conquer 50+ Steam achievements
Detailed performance tracking that measures your reaction times to the millisecond
Addictive gameplay that will keep you engaged for hours on end

Critical Reception

Upon its release in 2008, Ninja Reflex garnered widespread critical acclaim for its innovative gameplay, challenging levels, and addictive nature. Reviewers praised the game’s ability to provide an immersive and rewarding experience for both casual and hardcore gamers alike.

Conclusion

Ninja Reflex is a masterpiece of precision gaming that will captivate your senses and challenge you to the core. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer to the world of video games, this title promises an unforgettable experience that will test your limits and leave you yearning for more. Embrace the spirit of the ninja, master the art of speed, and become a true legend in the realm of Ninja Reflex.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time (2013)

by Christopher June 22, 2024

written by Christopher 8 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 2013
Genres: Adventure, Platform
Platforms: PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita
Developers: Sanzaru Games
Publishers: Sony Computer Entertainment

Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time (2013) Review

A Sly Return to Form

Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time is a 2013 platformer video game developed by Sanzaru Games and published by Sony Computer Entertainment for the PlayStation Vita. It is the fourth main installment in the Sly Cooper series, and the first to be developed by a studio other than Sucker Punch Productions. The game follows Sly Cooper and his gang as they travel through time to collect the Cooper Clan’s lost treasures and prevent the villainous Cyrille Le Paradox from altering history.

Gameplay

Thieves in Time plays similarly to previous Sly Cooper games, with players controlling Sly Cooper as he sneaks, steals, and fights his way through a variety of levels. Sly’s signature moves, such as his cane swing and grappling hook, return, along with new abilities that take advantage of the PlayStation Vita’s unique controls. For example, players can use the Vita’s touchscreen to pickpocket enemies or solve puzzles.

In addition to Sly, players can also control Bentley, Murray, and Carmelita Fox, each with their own unique abilities. Bentley is a master hacker who can disable security systems and control gadgets, Murray is a powerful brawler who can smash through obstacles, and Carmelita is a skilled marksman who can take down enemies from afar.

Story

The story of Thieves in Time begins when Sly Cooper and his gang discover that the pages of the Thievius Raccoonus, the Cooper Clan’s ancient book of thieving secrets, are disappearing. Bentley, now the keeper of the Thievius Raccoonus, realizes that the villainous Cyrille Le Paradox is traveling through time to steal the pages and alter history.

Sly and his gang must travel through time to collect the missing pages of the Thievius Raccoonus and stop Le Paradox. Along the way, they will encounter a variety of historical figures, including Leonardo da Vinci, Marie Antoinette, and the Wright brothers.

Graphics and Sound

Thieves in Time is a visually stunning game, with vibrant colors and detailed environments. The character models are expressive and well-animated, and the game’s art style is a perfect blend of cartoonish and realistic.

The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, with a mix of catchy tunes and atmospheric tracks. The voice acting is top-notch, with all of the characters sounding exactly as you would expect them to.

Overall

Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time is a fantastic platformer that is a must-play for fans of the series. With its charming story, engaging gameplay, and beautiful graphics, it is one of the best Vita games available.

Score: 9/10

Pros:

Fun and engaging gameplay
Charming story
Beautiful graphics
Excellent voice acting

Cons:

Some levels can be a bit too difficult
The game is a bit short

A Deeper Dive into Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time

The Characters

Sly Cooper is the protagonist of the Sly Cooper series, and he is a master thief with a heart of gold. He is always up for a challenge, and he is always willing to help those in need.

Bentley is Sly’s best friend and partner in crime. He is a brilliant inventor and hacker, and he is always coming up with new gadgets and plans to help Sly on his adventures.

Murray is another one of Sly’s close friends, and he is a powerful brawler who is always ready to fight for what’s right. He is also a skilled chef, and he loves to cook for his friends.

Carmelita Fox is a police inspector who is determined to bring Sly Cooper to justice. However, she has a soft spot for Sly, and she often finds herself helping him out of trouble.

The Gameplay

Thieves in Time is a platformer game with a focus on stealth and exploration. Players control Sly Cooper as he sneaks, steals, and fights his way through a variety of levels. Sly’s signature moves, such as his cane swing and grappling hook, return, along with new abilities that take advantage of the PlayStation Vita’s unique controls.

The Story

The Setting

Thieves in Time takes place in a variety of different time periods, including the Old West, ancient Egypt, and Victorian England. Each time period has its own unique look and feel, and the game does a great job of capturing the atmosphere of each era.

The Verdict

Review Score

8.5/10

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Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice (2016)

by Nish May 21, 2024

written by Nish 7 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 2016
Genres: Adventure, Platform
Platforms: Nintendo 3DS
Developers: Sanzaru Games
Publishers: Sega Europe, Sega Games, Sega of America

Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice – A Blazing New Adventure

Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice is an action-adventure platformer game developed by Sanzaru Games and published by Sega. It is part of the Sonic Boom spin-off franchise of the Sonic the Hedgehog series, along with the games Rise of Lyric and Shattered Crystal, and a TV show. The game was released on the Nintendo 3DS in 2016.

Gameplay

Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice is a 2D side-scrolling platformer game. Players control one of five characters: Sonic, Tails, Amy, Knuckles, or Sticks. Each character has their own unique abilities that can be used to solve puzzles and defeat enemies.

Sonic can use his super speed to run through levels and attack enemies. Tails can fly and use his gadgets to solve puzzles. Amy can use her hammer to attack enemies and break objects. Knuckles can use his strength to lift heavy objects and break through walls. Sticks can use her boomerang to attack enemies and solve puzzles.

The game’s unique feature is its fire and ice mechanics. Players can switch between fire and ice modes at any time. Fire mode allows players to melt ice and burn enemies. Ice mode allows players to freeze water and create platforms. Players must use both fire and ice modes to solve puzzles and defeat enemies.

Story

The story of Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice begins when Dr. Eggman and a new adversary named D-Fekt team up to steal the Chaos Crystals. Sonic and his friends must travel to an undiscovered land to stop Eggman and D-Fekt and save the Chaos Crystals.

Along the way, Sonic and his friends will encounter new allies and enemies. They will also learn more about the history of the Chaos Crystals and the undiscovered land.

Characters

Sonic the Hedgehog: The main protagonist of the game. Sonic is a blue hedgehog who can run at super speeds.
Tails: Sonic’s best friend and sidekick. Tails is a two-tailed fox who can fly and use his gadgets to solve puzzles.
Amy Rose: A pink hedgehog who is Sonic’s love interest. Amy is a skilled fighter who uses her hammer to attack enemies.
Knuckles the Echidna: A red echidna who is the guardian of the Master Emerald. Knuckles is a strong fighter who can lift heavy objects and break through walls.
Sticks the Badger: A badger who is a member of Sonic’s team. Sticks is a skilled boomerang user and is always ready for a fight.
Dr. Eggman: The main antagonist of the game. Dr. Eggman is a brilliant scientist who is always trying to take over the world.
D-Fekt: A new adversary who is working with Dr. Eggman. D-Fekt is a powerful robot who can control fire and ice.

Reception

Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the game’s unique fire and ice mechanics, while others criticized the game’s repetitive level design and lack of innovation.

Despite the mixed reviews, Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice was a commercial success. The game sold over 1 million copies worldwide.

Legacy

Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice is the last game in the Sonic Boom spin-off franchise. The franchise was not well-received by critics or fans, and Sega has not announced any plans to develop any more Sonic Boom games.

However, the fire and ice mechanics introduced in Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice have been praised by critics and fans alike. It is possible that these mechanics will be used in future Sonic the Hedgehog games.

Conclusion

Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice is a fun and challenging action-adventure platformer that takes the series in a new direction. The game’s unique fire and ice mechanics add a new level of strategy and depth to the gameplay, and the new characters are a welcome addition to the Sonic universe.

Overall, Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice is a solid entry in the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise. It is a fun and challenging game that is sure to please fans of the series.

Review Score

7.5/10