Army Corps of Hell for PlayStation VITA is a game that attempts to deliver a unique blend of vicious combat, dark humor, and lightning-quick action. As an experienced retro gaming enthusiast, it's admirable to see that the developers at Entersphere, Inc. have crafted a title that aims to capture the essence of classic gaming.
With its premise of controlling an army of a hundred goblin soldiers, each with their own classes and abilities, Army Corps of Hell presents an interesting twist on the traditional strategy genre. It's reminiscent of classic games where players had to lead large groups of units into battle, making tactical decisions on the fly.
One aspect that provides a nostalgic feel is the game's reliance on the unique control features of the PlayStation Vita. Through its touchscreen and rear touchpad capabilities, players can experience war in a way that was not possible in the golden age of gaming. It's a refreshing reminder of how technology has advanced, and how developers can utilize these advancements to enhance gameplay.
However, as much as there is to appreciate about Army Corps of Hell, there are certain areas that fall short of expectations. The combat, while fast-paced and intense, lacks depth and variety. Battles often devolve into mindless button-mashing, which can become repetitive and tiresome.
Furthermore, the game's dark humor, while attempting to add a unique flavor to the experience, often falls flat. What could have been an opportunity for clever and witty dialogue ends up feeling forced and lacking the charm that classic games were known for.
In terms of presentation, Army Corps of Hell does little to stand out. The graphics are adequate, but lack the visual flair that one would expect from a title published by Square Enix. Similarly, the sound design, while serviceable, fails to leave a lasting impact.
All in all, Army Corps of Hell for PlayStation VITA earns a modest rating of 3/10. Despite its attempts to bring back the thrill of retro gaming, it falls short in key areas. While it's commendable that developers are trying to capture the essence of classic games, it's important to remember that simply evoking nostalgia is no substitute for solid gameplay mechanics and engaging storytelling.
