Uncharted: Drake's Fortune
Uncharted: Drake's Fortune is a new game from Naughty Dog, the same studio who developed the Crash Bandicoot series on the original Playstation. A great thing about Uncharted if you're a Crash fan is that you'll notice some mechanics that they implemented in the old games and carried it over to Uncharted. Needlessly to say, Naughty Dog have taken a mature approach to the next generation, and they have done so rather well.
In Uncharted: Drake's Fortune, you follow the story of Nathan Drake, ancestor to Sir Francis Drake, on a mission to discover El Dorado. Along with Nathan are Elena and Sullivan ("Sully"). While playing, it's hard to not relate to the characters. They're presented as every day people, and because of this the story just sucks you in. It's hard to like a story if you can't immerse yourself in it, and Uncharted does everything right in that aspect. You start the game on a boat opening the coffin of Sir Francis Drake, in which Nathan finds Francis' journal, with many images of things you encounter in the game, and that also assist you in solving puzzles. Basically, an instruction book of what to do to find El Dorado. You're quickly put into action with guns, guns, and more...guns.
Throughout the game, Nathan will travel by foot, watercraft, and jeep. This is a nice variety to have because it not only keeps things fresh, it's also well executed and the mechanics are fantastic. The game play mechanics are very good, and it boasts a nice cover system "stop n' pop" type of game play, however it seems like it's been done before, and really isn't anything different. This doesn't mean it's bad, but veteran third person shooter fans may not find Uncharted as impressive as it is. You'll solve puzzles in the game as well, but they'll offer no real challenge to seasoned players.
The difficulty in Uncharted varies. At some points the game seems too easy, but generally speaking, it can end up being frustrating. The AI is fantastic and you'll get a sense of accomplishment once you finally take down that last guy. However, while Uncharted can be difficult at times, the length is still pretty short. It'll run 8-10 hours, and honestly feel more like a movie than a long, time occupying game.
To say Uncharted looks good visually is an understatement. Uncharted is one of the most beautiful games to date and the lush green, blue, and yellow tropical colors really make it a gem to look at. The frame rate is nice, the cut scenes are breathtaking, and the water is unbelievably realistic. It's the little things Uncharted: Drake's Fortune does that separates itself from the pack.
While disappointingly short, and not very different in terms of game play, Uncharted: Drake's Fortune is an amazing game that any PS3 owner should experience.
