Ridge Racer Type 4 (PlayStation, Japanese import version)

Graphics on PS games are getting and better, and RRT4 really shows what the console can do. This has better graphics and sound than Gran Turismo, and there's a more arcade feel to the handling. The powerslides are back. There's zero pop-up, very good AI and there even seems to be more of a storyline (I don't read Japanese though).

James Livingstone


Parasite Eve (PlayStation, Japanese import version)

When you first turn on the game and see the opening FMV your jaw instantly drops. Parasite Eve is set in New York at Christmas. Little do the public know that in a matter of minutes the entire city will be under threat from a savage, powerful, monstrous woman called Eve.

Enter Aya Brea of the NYPD. She is linked to Eve which means she can actually get close to her without frying. With the help of Ben and a whole host of supporting characters Aya must stop Eve from giving birth to the Ultimate Being. First of all the graphics are superb. The animation is again of the highest class although Aya moves a bit slowly. The sound is at best fitting for the game but by no means outstanding.

The gameplay and graphics are both strong in this game. The storyline is complex but understandable although there are not that many shocks. The controls are slick and responsive, although selecting stuff with the analogue proves slightly tricky, and the menus are simple and easy to understand.

The battle system is unique in that it's turn-based but while you're waiting for your gauge to fill up you can actively move about the screen to avoid enemies which makes battles enjoyable. There is also the option to find items which upgrade your weapons, and with the use of tools you can turn these upgrades into new weapons. All these little things add up and every time you play the game you know you're going to enjoy it. There is one (which could prove to be fatal) flaw. The game is far too short.

Robert Wilson.


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