Game Review: Prince of Persia

After the series' success during the last generation of consoles it was only a matter of time before Ubisoft Montreal, the developers behind 2007's Assassin's Creed, attempted to relaunch the Prince of Persia franchise. Could the new Prince live up to the standards of the old, or would he fall at the first great leap?

Prince of Persia is the standard Dark versus Light story, with the Prince and his partner Elika fighting to suppress Ahriman, the black, gloopy god of all things corrupt and malevolent. The Prince himself is, simply put, one of the most arrogant characters in any game, reinforcing just about every possible stereotype and without an ounce of originality or wit in his character or speech. Elika isn't much better, playing that irritatingly Disney-esque Princess - who's strength is apparently hindered by her tiny, beautiful shell - a character that has been used so many times that she is now entirely predictable. With the Prince and Elika being polar opposites there's a lot of banter throughout the game, usually revolving around asking and subsequently evading personal questions, or each character's philosophy on the world, perfectly regurgitated from 'The Clichéd Guide to the Inner Workings of Heroes and Heroines'.
Did I mention she could use magic? No? Well, you probably could have figured it out anyway.

However, while the characters may get on your nerves, it won't be enough for you to stop playing, thanks to Prince of Persia's excellent gameplay.

Most of your time playing Prince of Persia will be spent running, jumping, and falling down holes, in true platformer style, although somehow without the frustration and irritation that usually comes as standard in similar games. The platforming element is extremely well polished and refined, and Ubisoft have nailed the flow that can make other, similar games great. Admittedly, it can occasionally feel a little simplistic because you'll often be attempting similar, and fairly basic, challenges, and it's not nearly as frantic as other platforming experiences on the 360 (such as Ninja Gaiden II), so seasoned or veteran gamers may find Prince of Persia a little easy, at times.

Early into the game, you'll unlock Power Plates, which open up a whole new dimension of platforming - and the basic platforming is hardly restrictive! Running up walls and along roofs, being blown by divine winds across the world and even flight are all now possible, and despite the games inherent linearity, gives a fantastic sense of freedom. They add to the difficulty, too, as later levels require you to meticulously combine basic platforming with the power plates, resulting in an incredibly satisfactory spectacle.

Combat takes a back seat in Prince of Persia, and on the rare occasion it does take place you'll be locked into it, and forced to fight. When it comes to controlling the Prince in combat it's similar to Assassin's Creed, encouraging you to wait for the opportune moment before attacking your enemy. Unfortunately, while the combat is fairly enjoyably the first time round, it quickly becomes quite repetitive, as you'll only fight six different types of enemy, and most will be fought the same way. Also, once you've figured out how to effectively deflect attacks (which won't be hard, because half the time you'll be prompted), the combat becomes insultingly easy, and more a test of graft than skill.

The combat isn't the only thing that resembles Assassin's Creed...

As well as being important to the story, Elika also plays a very important role in the gameplay. As well as being used in platforming and combat, Elika's unique talents also prevent you from properly dying at any point in the game. Admittedly this isn't really different to any other game that uses checkpoints or autosaves, but having the game hold your hand so tightly does take the edge off the challenge. There isn't that pants-crapping panic after you've made the wrong jump, or the in depth planning of a difficult looking run, because you'll never be punished for it without as much as a snide remark. It's not something that more seasoned or veteran players are going to appreciate.

Even strong, independent princesses can't turn down a piggy back ride.

Prince of Persia boasts a unique art style, similar to a comic book. As you traverse the huge palace you'll be stunned by some of the views, and it only becomes more impressive as you play. As you gradually bring light back into the world, you'll be treated to incredible colours, which contrast the dark, gloomy worlds controlled by Ahriman beautifully. The musical score, too, is gorgeous, and again there is a noticeable contrast between the music for the light and dark worlds. It works perfectly in tune with the game's world, creating a superb cinematic experience.

Prince of Persia makes the leap between generations with style. While there are flaws, it remains a stylish and fun game, and arguably one of the best platformers on the 360. If you liked Assassin's Creed, this is definitely worth a look.

8/10

Then again, Disney is making the Prince of Persia film, maybe that's why the characters were ripped right out of Aladdin.

Still gutted he never unlocked the Assassin's Creed costume - tomdoodle16@live.co.uk