Blades of Time

Of all the games with low production values, this one isn't all that bad. It definitely has it flaws, but it's enjoyable so you could do a lot worse.

It's a step in the right direction, but the sequel to X-Blades still is not up to date. The graphics fall between Wii and PS3 standard (closer to Wii), the sounds are annoying and the gameplay still isn't satisfying. There is an online multiplayer and the time feature is a big advantage. Still, considering the low price, it could be interesting for hardcore hack'n'slay fans out of things to do (in).

The developer must think we are incredibly stupid, and while we thank them for taking the time to guide us through the game, explaining every tiny detail really hurts the experience. In the end this is a fun, if ugly game, but there are better choices out there.

It's a pity that Eastern European developers are usually on a budget to tight to transform their often great ideas into games that can be praised for something more than potential. The time rewind/character cloning feature of Blades of Time is very cool but the rest of the game is just not on par with it. [May 2012, p.70]

Even though it is offered as a "budget-price title", Gaijin's latest is not capable of standing next to some great action/ hack 'n' slash games the genre has offered in this generation. Nevertheless Ayumi's blades and time manipulating capabilities can be charming.

Still, for a budget title, Time did manage to keep our attention longer than we anticipated. [May 2012, p.85]

Blades of Time overcomes hurdles obstacles of its own creation with the strength of its novel time-twisting abilities.

It is, very much, a game of two halves. The production values are low – like kicking a three-legged kitten low – but the combat system is a crazy, unique joy. If someone, er, liberally 'borrowed' it in a title with a triple-A budget we could be looking at something really special.

A disappointing game which promised much more, but has fallen midway. Its story is not inspiring enough, gameplay is just average and it also has important flaws in its very basic mechanics. Only for hardcore hack and slash fans.

I don't know if it was the best idea to move away from the comic style of the predecessor. But this engine with its' technical problems starting from bland textures up to framerate issues, not to mention the really bad voiceovers certainly won't help Ayumi to find an audience. Too bad, cause the core with linear exploration and fighting works surprisingly well.

This updated version of X-Blades has some interesting twists and a new mechanics that work well. But even leaving alone the awful multiplayer mode, a lumpish control scheme and major graphical issues (bad collision over all) spoil the global experience.

It's not a bad game and it has its moments, but ends up being a victim of its low production values.