A game that excels in just about every way.
GRAPHICS
As is expected, the look and feel of the game is astounding. The game is, of course, made to play out like a living, breathing sumi-e painting, and even standing still, it does just those things. Then the watercolor paper filter really stands out, especially in dazzling white lights, but what really puts the player in a state of contented bliss is the truly aesthetic array of color. Warm or cool, dark or light, it's art, through and through.
GAMEPLAY
There are a few elements to this category. First off is the story. A truly compelling tale that becomes more intrigueing by the second, the story of Okami is one of so many genres, it's mind-boggling. The most prevailent are humour, drama, and action, but the game includes even horror and romance in some parts. There are also many twists and turns so that the plot skillfully keeps it fresh and interesting to the very end.
Next, I feel as though I should commemorate the characters. Amaterasu, the Shinto Sun Goddess in wolf form you'll control, not only has an ever-present personality, but can perform a variety of extra actions, and while they are not essential to the game, they are a great bit of fun. She sits, sleeps, digs, carries, barks, and more. As for the NPCs in the game, one word says it all: Wow. Truly a delight to meet, and rewarding to help out.
And last, but not least(!), the Celestial Brush! If the initial gameplay was the box, and the graphics the decorative wrapping paper, this is certainly the ribbon that ties it all together. Pressing R1, the screen flattens into a true painting canvas, onto which Amaterasu can paint various shapes that directly affect the environment(a line to slash objects, a circle to rejuvenate, etc.). This function is not only easy to use, but great to experiment with.
SOUND
Months before I even got the game myself, I fell in love with the soundtrack. Titles such as those from Ryoshima coast and the new Sei-an Aristocratic Quarter, previously heard in previews and trailers, won my heart instantly. The music is incredibly well-done, serving to further gift-wrap such a unique experience, and you don't even really have to get the soundtrack to enjoy each one, as one is included in "Presents from Issun" at the end.
As for the effects, they were also very well done, if a bit archaic(but isn't that what we're aiming for in folklore?). Whether it's blitzing through a field or fighting a monster 10 times your size, the sound in this game is immersive. The gibberish-speak may be a disappointment for others, but compared with no sound, or compared with having to completely re-voice act for the North American version, I readily embrace it.
VALUE
The PINNACLE of gaming value. The world of Nippon is vast and hosts truckloads of treasure and oppurtunities. There's just no other way to say it; this game is HUGE. Though I would've liked to return to Nippon after defeating Yami, I can't say it wasn't an emotional conclusion to a well-written story. However, throughout and after the experience, this game keeps you coming back for more.
Nippon is a rich land bursting with people, profits, and praise. The villagers across the land all have problems since the escape of Orochi, and helping them with their burdens proves to be a worthwhile endeavor. Massive treasure hunting will also no doubt ensue , and there are many critters scattered about in need of food as well. All these things will get you money or praise, which you can then use to grow stronger.
Strength and purchased items transfer to the next adventure, a new file you create after completing the game, and at the end, near the credits, you are assessed on how well you did. Here, You can win "karmic transformers" and change your form; a nice change of scenery sometimes. But regardless of these, you can then check out the beautiful art, music, and previews of the game in "Presents from Issun", a wondeful gift from Clover Studios.
FINAL VERDICT
Okami is the height of gaming experience, astonishing and satisfying at every turn, ever fresh and intrigueing. It accomplishes everything it sets out to do, and fails only when it comes to personal preference. Reasons to get this game? Beauty, style, and originality, to name a few. And that says it all right there. If you skipped down here to read this part alone, and those three words don't get your attention, you should probably skip it.
But if you dig an imaginative and humourous adventure, don't miss a beat!
- PA