Ray17
Gabba Gandalf
Klick mich !!!
Weiß allerdings nicht, wieviele du davon sehen kannst - falls du kein Complete Member bist...
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Wie letztes Jahr von einigen gewünscht, hier eine Erinnerung zur Unterstützung.
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Hallo Gast, falls du dich wunderst, wieso Bilder und Videos nicht mehr sofort angezeigt werden, schau mal hier.
Viewtiful Joe
- Ersteller Andy
- Erstellt am
Klick mich !!!
Weiß allerdings nicht, wieviele du davon sehen kannst - falls du kein Complete Member bist...
Tabris
Jiyuu Tenshi
![[IMG]](http://mitglied.lycos.de/team4ever/gaming-universe/div_bilder/pfeil.gif)
relikt
Nö.
:zzz:Original geschrieben von Tabris
Kurz? Wie kommst du darauf?
Das Game bietet auch nach dem Durchspielen (falls man es irgendwann mal schafft) noch eine Fülle von freispielbaren Features.
das war bei PDO genauso, da gabs sogar zusatzlevels etc. freizuspielen, und obgleich das spiel so arg kurz is hatts mich keinen deut interessiert irgendwas frei zu spielen etc. liegt vieleicht auch am spiel selber.
Viewtiful Joe spielt sich sicher n bissl anspruchsvoller als PDO...
Tabris
Jiyuu Tenshi
Verschiedene Charas, Items, SchwierigkeitsstufenOriginal geschrieben von DaWolf
hab wo gelesen, dass es ziemlich kurz sein soll. ich bin halt au net son spieler, der n spiel wegen n paar extras mehr als einmal durchspielt. aber vielleciht kannsch mich ja überzeugen - was hats denn für tolle xtras ?
Ob's noch mehr gibt, weiss ich nicht genau, ich hab die Vollversion ja noch nicht. Ich hab bis jetzt noch nirgends gelesen, dass das Spiel irgendjemandem zu kurz war, nur dass es ziemlich schwer sei.
Tabris
Jiyuu Tenshi
Viewtiful Joe (IGN: 9.5)
Der Release rückt langsam näher (USA: 7. Oktober 2003; PAL: 24. Oktober 2003) und deshalb hielt ich es für angebracht, das Spiel etwas ins Rampenlicht zu rücken.
IGN REVIEW
October 03, 2003 - Remember when you first heard the word "viewtiful?" It was actually only one year ago that Capcom dropped that little wacky adjective on the world as it unearthed plans for the "Fantastic Five" -- a stunning five-title line-up set to sail exclusively on Nintendo's GameCube. Since then, the first of the set has already been released (P.N.03), one has been cancelled (Dead Phoenix), and very little has been heard on the other two biggies (RE4, Killer 7). But what is considered by some to be the most anticipated of the bunch is finally about to hit store shelves here in the States just one swift year after its unveiling: Viewtiful Joe.
When we first heard the word Viewtiful ourselves, we didn't know whether to look it up in the dictionary or question Capcom's sanity. From the limited screens and wacky title alone, we were convinced that the Japanese development team was hard at work creating a fancy acrobatic superhero dancing simulation of some sort. But when we finally got our hands on a playable version just a few short months later, we were in love. Since that time, our love has boiled into a raging, incurable infatuation for Viewtiful Joe. Yes, we realize that Joe is a spandex-clad superhero with a pink cape, but if you haven't already fallen in love with this game for yourselves after consuming our extensive, viewtiful preview coverage, then please, read on and allow us to share our passion.
The Facts
- Play as Joe and fight the forces of evil with your hot-pink cape
- 2D, side-scrolling fighting action set in 3D panoramas
- Unique, cinematic combat system uses VFX Powers such as Slow, Mach Speed, and Zoom to obliterate enemy forces
- Use your VFX Powers to solve puzzles and take down big, bad bosses
- Wacky, cel-shaded, comic-based characters and environments like you've never seen before
- Earn "Viewtifuls" to purchase additional killer moves and items between episodes
- Seven episodes spanning at least 10 hours of gameplay
- Multiple difficulty levels
- Progressive scan support
- For one player only
The Concept
We didn't know what to think of our boy Joe when we first met him. His ripped muscles, stylish attire, and glowing yellow eyes seemed to indicate superhero status, but the slightly squatty frame and pink cape threw us for a loop. Could we ever take Capcom's new Joe character seriously as an action hero? The answer is yes, and it only takes a few minutes behind the controller to begin to truly appreciate the brilliance of Capcom's daring design. Though the story is straightforward, all we need to know is that Joe's girlfriend Silvia has been mysteriously sucked into a movie by an evil force to provide us with more than enough motivation to hop into the red tights and commence with the beatdown.
At its heart, Vi
ewtiful Joe is about as old school as a game could possibly get in today's world of free-roaming, 3D titles. Aside from sticking to a beautifully flat, cel-shaded rendering style, VJ's gameplay is also a throwback to the days of side-scrolling, beat-'em-up, action platformers. Comic-styled backgrounds scroll in 3D as your path turns and bends around corners, but gamers will never get sidetracked with excessive exploration -- just keep pressing to the left or right and fighting your way through hordes of zany foes (such as tutu-wearing robots with gasmasks), and you'll advance through city streets, lavish palaces, sludgy sewers, underwater submarines, and other awesome environments that we'd rather not spoil.
![[IMG]]()
Capcom's new Joe superhero smacks with personality and high-energy kung fu.
It's this tight focus on side-scrolling action mixed with Capcom's wacky-yet-curiously-cool 2D art style that will keep both old-school action gamers and newcomers alike glued to Viewtiful Joe. Fans of classic brawlers such as Double Dragon and Battletoads will instantly fall in love with Joe's amazing, lethal, lightning-quick martial-arts combat animations, and then bullet-time junkies who crave the adrenaline rush behind super-stylish, slow-motion finesse will be equally hooked. If you consider yourself a fan of both, then run to the store now, because this game is an absolute no-brainer for your library.
The Good
It may be difficult for some to get a feel for exactly how "good" Viewtiful Joe is by just skimming screens and surfing gameplay movies. It's not an easy game to decipher when your hands aren't on the controller. The camera zooms in and out; time slows to a crawl and then suddenly blazes ahead so fast that casual observers are often left scratching their heads. If you were lucky enough to have tracked down a copy of Nintendo's illusive Preview Disc earlier this year, then you've already played a slightly outdated version of VJ's opening level, and you've begun to understand exactly how much ass Joe is capable of kicking in a single bound. But for the rest of you, here's the scoop: Joe is capable of kicking a ridiculous amount of ass throughout his entire videogame debut.
For starters, the action is unbelievably satisfying. Players enter the game as a regular, street-clothed kid named Joe who is beginning to awaken the superhero power within him. Shortly into the opening level, you'll be able to transform into the red superstar known as Viewtiful Joe, and that's when the real fun kicks in. You'll meet up with old-time superhero Captain Blue who will pass on critical and extremely pleasing techniques such as Slow, Mach Speed, and Zoom. Using the L, R, and B buttons respectively will allow VJ to bust out cinematically sweet punch-kick combos, dodges, and counter attacks unlike anything you've ever seen in a videogame -- or movie for that matter. Truthfully, if you can hit the punch and kick buttons fast enough (Y and X), then you'll spit out a blurred furry of attacks that'll make Neo's latest stunts seem tame
and sluggish in comparison.
There's no point in detailing exactly how VJ's combat system works throughout the game, but we'll just say this: it works extremely well and brings us great joy. Punches and kicks are very responsive, gorgeously animated, and can be mixed up at will as you repeatedly tap-tap-tap-tap the controller and beat-knock-smack-crush anyone foolish enough to stand in Joe's path. As you do, you're rewarded with "Viewtifuls" -- points that are used like money at the end of every episode to purchase even more awesome moves (such as Joe's "Red Hot Kick") and items (such as bombs, boomerangs, or health power-ups). This system works wonders to help encourage less-skilled players to replay levels, save up their Viewtifuls, and then come back kicking with a more lethal arsenal of attacks, while VJ masters can earn the same power-ups just as quickly by performing higher-paying combos on the first run. It's a simple, time-tested power-up system that accents VJ's amazing martial arts antics perfectly.
![[IMG]]()
Boss fights such as this are some of the most challenging we've fought.
Aside from the awesome action that is the cornerstone of your Viewtiful Joe experience, you may also be surprised and pleased to learn that the game isn't strictly a matter of busting skulls. The viewtifully cinematic visual effects (Slow, Mach Speed, and Zoom) also have interesting side effects that allow Joe to interact with his environment, solve puzzles, and unlock secrets. There's no reason to spoil any such challenges here, but let's just say that you'll be using your thinking caps on everything from opening doors to finding a boss' weak point. And don't forget -- there is no shame in hitting up our friend, the IGN Guide, for some emergency tips.
And believe us, some gamers will definitely need them. One of the best things about Viewtiful Joe is its extremely challenging gameplay. We're talking about that NES-style of repeatedly continuing and replaying levels until your reflexes have become perfectly in synch with Joe himself. Enemies will swarm you and grow in both size and difficulty as the game progresses, boss fights are never anything less than intense, and players who continue to pour their playtime into Viewtiful Joe will either pass out from the stress or feel more like a kung fu badass than ever before. The game is definitely one of the most challenging action titles on the GameCube, and possibly for any other system in recent times. Inexperienced players will still get a kick out of transforming into Viewtiful Joe during the opening level and beating the junk out of the first wave of baddies, but they'll need to buck-up if they hope to progress. Viewtiful Joe will definitely put hair on any gamer's chest, and it might just make a man out of some kids yet.
The Bad
If one were to find gripes to nitpick in Viewtiful Joe (as most can and will do with any game), then there are a few we could list here for the sake of completeness and objectivity. Boss characters are wicked-cool, but the game could use a f
ew more of them, as you'll sometimes fight the same boss at several points in the storyline instead of being treated to all new ones. Also, VJ's story is not nearly as coherent as one might hope, as you'll often jump locations between episodes without any real explanation in the plot. Such story gripes are a minor fuss, though, since it really exists only to justify the action any way it can.
After having played through a good part of the game, some IGN editors feel that, despite what the game packs in style and action, it lacks in providing an equal breakthrough in the technological or gameplay design arena. Those of us VJ-addicts would also agree that the merits of this game are strongly rooted in its classic and extremely well-executed action, so if you're hoping for a brilliant leap forward in technology or design, then it's time to get your expectations in check. Other gripes could be that the game is too difficult, or that the action becomes too repetitive throughout the lengthy adventure. All of these points can be argued with some merit, but none are worth getting hung up on or spoiling the viewty that is Joe.
The Viewtiful
Now that you've heard the Good and Bad that Viewtiful Joe has to offer, we'd like to take just a quick moment to drool all over ourselves and spew forth whatever remaining VJ fandom remains within. First, we must give crazy props to the mad scientists at Capcom for A) dreaming up this game, B) having the courage to greenlight it, and C) having the talent to pull it off so amazingly well. In a time when action games are becoming more cookie-cutter and less challenging to give a wider, mass-market appeal, Viewtiful Joe slaps the industry in the face and dares to make games hard again while simultaneously returning the color pink to its throne of '80s coolness. Both feats are something we'll gladly applaud.
![[IMG]]()
You'll find pink in the least likely places, and you will love it.
Another part of Viewtiful Joe that we fell in love with: its surprising length. Just when you think it's over, it's not. There are a total of seven episodes, so a hardcore gamer could possibly play through from start to finish in roughly seven hours, but most could spend twice that (if not longer) due to the time needed to die, continue, and replay some of the tougher spots.
And just when you thought a final boss fight couldn't possibly get any cooler, Viewtiful Joe's does. Gamers will want to put in the extra effort to see Joe all the way through to the end, not only for the final gameplay experience, but also for the bonus treats you'll get in return -- they make the game worth playing all over again from scratch.
Graphics
You can trust that Capcom isn't going to slap the name "viewtiful" on a box unless it's sporting impressive visuals to back it. In the case of Viewtiful Joe, we're treated to a gorgeously rendered cel-shaded package that borders closer to the true definition of artwork than nearly any other game on the system. Everything from the diverse and richly detailed backg
rounds to the wildly unique character designs, the truly beautiful graphical effects, and the unbelievable character animations are all masterfully crafted, making Viewtiful Joe a showpiece title for Nintendo's console.
Not for a second does the game stutter or slow down. It runs at a rock-solid framerate that shows off every brilliant frame of Joe flipping, twisting, soaring, posing, punching, and kicking with much style and convincing fluidity. In fact, the artists and animators have injected so much life into this new Joe character that we could easily see him becoming the next big thing to hit a Saturday morning TV spot near you. You better believe that we'd wake up early for it.
And, of course, techies will be glad to know that the game does, in fact, support progressive scan output for an even more impressive display -- if such a thing were even possible. But there's no amount of words here that could justly describe the creative, offbeat style and talented craftsmanship that have blended so wonderfully to comprise Viewtiful Joe. Instead, we highly recommend a simpler alternative: pick it up right now and appreciate the goodness for yourselves.
Sound
Though lacking any real surround support, Viewtiful Joe's stereo mix is adequately crisp and varied. At any single moment, there's a wide range of sound effects all hitting your speakers at the exact same time -- punches, shattering metal, echoes, chimes, cheers, voices, grunts, explosions, motors -- you name it, and VJ assaults your ear buds with it. Some effects could use a bit more variety, but given the complete spread of simultaneous sounds the game must produce to keep up with the onscreen action, there's really little room for complaint. Musically, VJ's beats are reminiscent of a funky trance rave where everyone's wearing pink and having a jammin'-good time. The style of tunes is consistent throughout the game and gets appropriately dramatic whenever a good boss fight calls for it. Otherwise, chances are good that you won't even notice the beats one way or the other as you focus instead on keeping Joe on his toes.
![[IMG]]()
When Joe starts busting things up, crank those speakers.
Closing Comments
It's really exciting to see what happens when a big publisher such as Capcom grants its star game designer, Hideki Kamiya of Resident Evil 2 fame, a blank check. Though Kamiya fans would never doubt his talents, even the creative mastermind himself once admitted to being nervous of the reception that his latest pet project, Viewtiful Joe, would receive by gamers. With its eccentric style and old-school gameplay, would gamers be hooked? Would they see past Joe's pink cape and realize that underneath lies a burger-eating, crime-fighting machine? Thankfully, we've already seen the successful sales numbers roll in during Joe's mid-summer Japanese launch, and now we finally get to see how the long-awaited American launch will fare.
I know I speak for many here at IGN when I say that I hope Viewtiful Joe sells through the roof here in the U.S. It's o
ne of the most action-packed and genuinely entertaining games I've played in a long time on any system, and it certainly deserves to serve Capcom proud. If you're a fan of great action and side-scrolling beat-'em-ups, then run and get yourself a copy today while you still can. If for some reason you still don't own a GameCube, then don't let that be your excuse -- take advantage of the latest $99 price-point and get to know Joe, pronto.
It's hard to fault this game in any one particular area other than its slightly flat story, so don't even bother looking for another dull spot, 'cause most everything else has already been polished to perfection. Graphics, gameplay, lasting appeal -- you name it, and Viewtiful Joe nails everything that truly makes a game fun. If the intense challenge intimidates you, then good -- you could probably use a good ass kicking, anyway. I know I certainly did. Beating this game is a badge of honor to wear with pride, and you can bet that I'll be playing through Viewtiful Joe several more times to see if I'm still man enough to call myself a gamer.
-- Cory D. Lewis
Another Take
When Capcom first unveiled Viewtiful Joe I didn't know what to make of the title. When I saw new screens and movies flow out weeks and months later I remained intrigued, but confused. However, when I first played the game, it all came together. The simple truth is that VJ is one of the most kick-ass beat-'em-up style titles I've ever had the fortune to control. And speaking of control, once you've had the chance to play through a level or two of this game -- to slow time and to unleash wicked combos onto foes that break and snap into particle oblivion and to truly grasp how intuitively it's all sewn together -- you'll realize why we love Joe so much. VJ is just so polished, so fun -- you'll have a difficult time putting the controller down.
The game, as Cory noted, is also such a departure from the GTAs and Dooms that drown today's console libraries that you have to give Capcom credit for doing it. Here's hoping gamers like you go out and buy it so that publishers will make more original software like it.
One of GameCube's finest. GCN owners absolutely need to buy own this one. And if you're not yet a GameCube owner, VJ is reason enough to become one.
-- Matt Casamassina
RATING
9.0 Presentation
Cut-scenes tell a slightly muddy yet still entertaining tale of Joe's struggle to rescue Silvia. Standard Capcom polish and excellence all around.
9.0 Graphics
Crisp, colorful, and gorgeous. Great art mixes with solid technology for one of the most stylized beat-'em-ups ever seen.
9.0 Sound
Clean stereo effects ring as Joe shatters his foes with power-packed blows. Electronic trance tunes are good, and Joe's voice-acting fits perfectly.
10.0 Gameplay
The best action title on the GameCube -- Viewtiful Joe rules all. Irresistible and highly addictive action combat packed with fantastic flair.
9.0 Lasting Appeal
VJ is crazy tough, and we lov
e it! Worthy unlockables, but you'll want to keep replaying forever based on the awesome gameplay mechanics alone.
9.5 OVERALL
Der Release rückt langsam näher (USA: 7. Oktober 2003; PAL: 24. Oktober 2003) und deshalb hielt ich es für angebracht, das Spiel etwas ins Rampenlicht zu rücken.
IGN REVIEW
October 03, 2003 - Remember when you first heard the word "viewtiful?" It was actually only one year ago that Capcom dropped that little wacky adjective on the world as it unearthed plans for the "Fantastic Five" -- a stunning five-title line-up set to sail exclusively on Nintendo's GameCube. Since then, the first of the set has already been released (P.N.03), one has been cancelled (Dead Phoenix), and very little has been heard on the other two biggies (RE4, Killer 7). But what is considered by some to be the most anticipated of the bunch is finally about to hit store shelves here in the States just one swift year after its unveiling: Viewtiful Joe.
When we first heard the word Viewtiful ourselves, we didn't know whether to look it up in the dictionary or question Capcom's sanity. From the limited screens and wacky title alone, we were convinced that the Japanese development team was hard at work creating a fancy acrobatic superhero dancing simulation of some sort. But when we finally got our hands on a playable version just a few short months later, we were in love. Since that time, our love has boiled into a raging, incurable infatuation for Viewtiful Joe. Yes, we realize that Joe is a spandex-clad superhero with a pink cape, but if you haven't already fallen in love with this game for yourselves after consuming our extensive, viewtiful preview coverage, then please, read on and allow us to share our passion.
The Facts
- Play as Joe and fight the forces of evil with your hot-pink cape
- 2D, side-scrolling fighting action set in 3D panoramas
- Unique, cinematic combat system uses VFX Powers such as Slow, Mach Speed, and Zoom to obliterate enemy forces
- Use your VFX Powers to solve puzzles and take down big, bad bosses
- Wacky, cel-shaded, comic-based characters and environments like you've never seen before
- Earn "Viewtifuls" to purchase additional killer moves and items between episodes
- Seven episodes spanning at least 10 hours of gameplay
- Multiple difficulty levels
- Progressive scan support
- For one player only
The Concept
We didn't know what to think of our boy Joe when we first met him. His ripped muscles, stylish attire, and glowing yellow eyes seemed to indicate superhero status, but the slightly squatty frame and pink cape threw us for a loop. Could we ever take Capcom's new Joe character seriously as an action hero? The answer is yes, and it only takes a few minutes behind the controller to begin to truly appreciate the brilliance of Capcom's daring design. Though the story is straightforward, all we need to know is that Joe's girlfriend Silvia has been mysteriously sucked into a movie by an evil force to provide us with more than enough motivation to hop into the red tights and commence with the beatdown.
At its heart, Vi
ewtiful Joe is about as old school as a game could possibly get in today's world of free-roaming, 3D titles. Aside from sticking to a beautifully flat, cel-shaded rendering style, VJ's gameplay is also a throwback to the days of side-scrolling, beat-'em-up, action platformers. Comic-styled backgrounds scroll in 3D as your path turns and bends around corners, but gamers will never get sidetracked with excessive exploration -- just keep pressing to the left or right and fighting your way through hordes of zany foes (such as tutu-wearing robots with gasmasks), and you'll advance through city streets, lavish palaces, sludgy sewers, underwater submarines, and other awesome environments that we'd rather not spoil.
![[IMG]](http://cubemedia.ign.com/cube/image/viewjoe_1003003_mid3.jpg)
Capcom's new Joe superhero smacks with personality and high-energy kung fu.
It's this tight focus on side-scrolling action mixed with Capcom's wacky-yet-curiously-cool 2D art style that will keep both old-school action gamers and newcomers alike glued to Viewtiful Joe. Fans of classic brawlers such as Double Dragon and Battletoads will instantly fall in love with Joe's amazing, lethal, lightning-quick martial-arts combat animations, and then bullet-time junkies who crave the adrenaline rush behind super-stylish, slow-motion finesse will be equally hooked. If you consider yourself a fan of both, then run to the store now, because this game is an absolute no-brainer for your library.
The Good
It may be difficult for some to get a feel for exactly how "good" Viewtiful Joe is by just skimming screens and surfing gameplay movies. It's not an easy game to decipher when your hands aren't on the controller. The camera zooms in and out; time slows to a crawl and then suddenly blazes ahead so fast that casual observers are often left scratching their heads. If you were lucky enough to have tracked down a copy of Nintendo's illusive Preview Disc earlier this year, then you've already played a slightly outdated version of VJ's opening level, and you've begun to understand exactly how much ass Joe is capable of kicking in a single bound. But for the rest of you, here's the scoop: Joe is capable of kicking a ridiculous amount of ass throughout his entire videogame debut.
For starters, the action is unbelievably satisfying. Players enter the game as a regular, street-clothed kid named Joe who is beginning to awaken the superhero power within him. Shortly into the opening level, you'll be able to transform into the red superstar known as Viewtiful Joe, and that's when the real fun kicks in. You'll meet up with old-time superhero Captain Blue who will pass on critical and extremely pleasing techniques such as Slow, Mach Speed, and Zoom. Using the L, R, and B buttons respectively will allow VJ to bust out cinematically sweet punch-kick combos, dodges, and counter attacks unlike anything you've ever seen in a videogame -- or movie for that matter. Truthfully, if you can hit the punch and kick buttons fast enough (Y and X), then you'll spit out a blurred furry of attacks that'll make Neo's latest stunts seem tame
and sluggish in comparison.
There's no point in detailing exactly how VJ's combat system works throughout the game, but we'll just say this: it works extremely well and brings us great joy. Punches and kicks are very responsive, gorgeously animated, and can be mixed up at will as you repeatedly tap-tap-tap-tap the controller and beat-knock-smack-crush anyone foolish enough to stand in Joe's path. As you do, you're rewarded with "Viewtifuls" -- points that are used like money at the end of every episode to purchase even more awesome moves (such as Joe's "Red Hot Kick") and items (such as bombs, boomerangs, or health power-ups). This system works wonders to help encourage less-skilled players to replay levels, save up their Viewtifuls, and then come back kicking with a more lethal arsenal of attacks, while VJ masters can earn the same power-ups just as quickly by performing higher-paying combos on the first run. It's a simple, time-tested power-up system that accents VJ's amazing martial arts antics perfectly.
![[IMG]](http://cubemedia.ign.com/cube/image/viewjoe_1003003_mid1.jpg)
Boss fights such as this are some of the most challenging we've fought.
Aside from the awesome action that is the cornerstone of your Viewtiful Joe experience, you may also be surprised and pleased to learn that the game isn't strictly a matter of busting skulls. The viewtifully cinematic visual effects (Slow, Mach Speed, and Zoom) also have interesting side effects that allow Joe to interact with his environment, solve puzzles, and unlock secrets. There's no reason to spoil any such challenges here, but let's just say that you'll be using your thinking caps on everything from opening doors to finding a boss' weak point. And don't forget -- there is no shame in hitting up our friend, the IGN Guide, for some emergency tips.
And believe us, some gamers will definitely need them. One of the best things about Viewtiful Joe is its extremely challenging gameplay. We're talking about that NES-style of repeatedly continuing and replaying levels until your reflexes have become perfectly in synch with Joe himself. Enemies will swarm you and grow in both size and difficulty as the game progresses, boss fights are never anything less than intense, and players who continue to pour their playtime into Viewtiful Joe will either pass out from the stress or feel more like a kung fu badass than ever before. The game is definitely one of the most challenging action titles on the GameCube, and possibly for any other system in recent times. Inexperienced players will still get a kick out of transforming into Viewtiful Joe during the opening level and beating the junk out of the first wave of baddies, but they'll need to buck-up if they hope to progress. Viewtiful Joe will definitely put hair on any gamer's chest, and it might just make a man out of some kids yet.
The Bad
If one were to find gripes to nitpick in Viewtiful Joe (as most can and will do with any game), then there are a few we could list here for the sake of completeness and objectivity. Boss characters are wicked-cool, but the game could use a f
ew more of them, as you'll sometimes fight the same boss at several points in the storyline instead of being treated to all new ones. Also, VJ's story is not nearly as coherent as one might hope, as you'll often jump locations between episodes without any real explanation in the plot. Such story gripes are a minor fuss, though, since it really exists only to justify the action any way it can.
After having played through a good part of the game, some IGN editors feel that, despite what the game packs in style and action, it lacks in providing an equal breakthrough in the technological or gameplay design arena. Those of us VJ-addicts would also agree that the merits of this game are strongly rooted in its classic and extremely well-executed action, so if you're hoping for a brilliant leap forward in technology or design, then it's time to get your expectations in check. Other gripes could be that the game is too difficult, or that the action becomes too repetitive throughout the lengthy adventure. All of these points can be argued with some merit, but none are worth getting hung up on or spoiling the viewty that is Joe.
The Viewtiful
Now that you've heard the Good and Bad that Viewtiful Joe has to offer, we'd like to take just a quick moment to drool all over ourselves and spew forth whatever remaining VJ fandom remains within. First, we must give crazy props to the mad scientists at Capcom for A) dreaming up this game, B) having the courage to greenlight it, and C) having the talent to pull it off so amazingly well. In a time when action games are becoming more cookie-cutter and less challenging to give a wider, mass-market appeal, Viewtiful Joe slaps the industry in the face and dares to make games hard again while simultaneously returning the color pink to its throne of '80s coolness. Both feats are something we'll gladly applaud.
![[IMG]](http://cubemedia.ign.com/cube/image/viewjoe_1003003_mid4.jpg)
You'll find pink in the least likely places, and you will love it.
Another part of Viewtiful Joe that we fell in love with: its surprising length. Just when you think it's over, it's not. There are a total of seven episodes, so a hardcore gamer could possibly play through from start to finish in roughly seven hours, but most could spend twice that (if not longer) due to the time needed to die, continue, and replay some of the tougher spots.
And just when you thought a final boss fight couldn't possibly get any cooler, Viewtiful Joe's does. Gamers will want to put in the extra effort to see Joe all the way through to the end, not only for the final gameplay experience, but also for the bonus treats you'll get in return -- they make the game worth playing all over again from scratch.
Graphics
You can trust that Capcom isn't going to slap the name "viewtiful" on a box unless it's sporting impressive visuals to back it. In the case of Viewtiful Joe, we're treated to a gorgeously rendered cel-shaded package that borders closer to the true definition of artwork than nearly any other game on the system. Everything from the diverse and richly detailed backg
rounds to the wildly unique character designs, the truly beautiful graphical effects, and the unbelievable character animations are all masterfully crafted, making Viewtiful Joe a showpiece title for Nintendo's console.
Not for a second does the game stutter or slow down. It runs at a rock-solid framerate that shows off every brilliant frame of Joe flipping, twisting, soaring, posing, punching, and kicking with much style and convincing fluidity. In fact, the artists and animators have injected so much life into this new Joe character that we could easily see him becoming the next big thing to hit a Saturday morning TV spot near you. You better believe that we'd wake up early for it.
And, of course, techies will be glad to know that the game does, in fact, support progressive scan output for an even more impressive display -- if such a thing were even possible. But there's no amount of words here that could justly describe the creative, offbeat style and talented craftsmanship that have blended so wonderfully to comprise Viewtiful Joe. Instead, we highly recommend a simpler alternative: pick it up right now and appreciate the goodness for yourselves.
Sound
Though lacking any real surround support, Viewtiful Joe's stereo mix is adequately crisp and varied. At any single moment, there's a wide range of sound effects all hitting your speakers at the exact same time -- punches, shattering metal, echoes, chimes, cheers, voices, grunts, explosions, motors -- you name it, and VJ assaults your ear buds with it. Some effects could use a bit more variety, but given the complete spread of simultaneous sounds the game must produce to keep up with the onscreen action, there's really little room for complaint. Musically, VJ's beats are reminiscent of a funky trance rave where everyone's wearing pink and having a jammin'-good time. The style of tunes is consistent throughout the game and gets appropriately dramatic whenever a good boss fight calls for it. Otherwise, chances are good that you won't even notice the beats one way or the other as you focus instead on keeping Joe on his toes.
![[IMG]](http://cubemedia.ign.com/cube/image/viewjoe_1003003_mid2.jpg)
When Joe starts busting things up, crank those speakers.
Closing Comments
It's really exciting to see what happens when a big publisher such as Capcom grants its star game designer, Hideki Kamiya of Resident Evil 2 fame, a blank check. Though Kamiya fans would never doubt his talents, even the creative mastermind himself once admitted to being nervous of the reception that his latest pet project, Viewtiful Joe, would receive by gamers. With its eccentric style and old-school gameplay, would gamers be hooked? Would they see past Joe's pink cape and realize that underneath lies a burger-eating, crime-fighting machine? Thankfully, we've already seen the successful sales numbers roll in during Joe's mid-summer Japanese launch, and now we finally get to see how the long-awaited American launch will fare.
I know I speak for many here at IGN when I say that I hope Viewtiful Joe sells through the roof here in the U.S. It's o
ne of the most action-packed and genuinely entertaining games I've played in a long time on any system, and it certainly deserves to serve Capcom proud. If you're a fan of great action and side-scrolling beat-'em-ups, then run and get yourself a copy today while you still can. If for some reason you still don't own a GameCube, then don't let that be your excuse -- take advantage of the latest $99 price-point and get to know Joe, pronto.
It's hard to fault this game in any one particular area other than its slightly flat story, so don't even bother looking for another dull spot, 'cause most everything else has already been polished to perfection. Graphics, gameplay, lasting appeal -- you name it, and Viewtiful Joe nails everything that truly makes a game fun. If the intense challenge intimidates you, then good -- you could probably use a good ass kicking, anyway. I know I certainly did. Beating this game is a badge of honor to wear with pride, and you can bet that I'll be playing through Viewtiful Joe several more times to see if I'm still man enough to call myself a gamer.
-- Cory D. Lewis
Another Take
When Capcom first unveiled Viewtiful Joe I didn't know what to make of the title. When I saw new screens and movies flow out weeks and months later I remained intrigued, but confused. However, when I first played the game, it all came together. The simple truth is that VJ is one of the most kick-ass beat-'em-up style titles I've ever had the fortune to control. And speaking of control, once you've had the chance to play through a level or two of this game -- to slow time and to unleash wicked combos onto foes that break and snap into particle oblivion and to truly grasp how intuitively it's all sewn together -- you'll realize why we love Joe so much. VJ is just so polished, so fun -- you'll have a difficult time putting the controller down.
The game, as Cory noted, is also such a departure from the GTAs and Dooms that drown today's console libraries that you have to give Capcom credit for doing it. Here's hoping gamers like you go out and buy it so that publishers will make more original software like it.
One of GameCube's finest. GCN owners absolutely need to buy own this one. And if you're not yet a GameCube owner, VJ is reason enough to become one.
-- Matt Casamassina
RATING
9.0 Presentation
Cut-scenes tell a slightly muddy yet still entertaining tale of Joe's struggle to rescue Silvia. Standard Capcom polish and excellence all around.
9.0 Graphics
Crisp, colorful, and gorgeous. Great art mixes with solid technology for one of the most stylized beat-'em-ups ever seen.
9.0 Sound
Clean stereo effects ring as Joe shatters his foes with power-packed blows. Electronic trance tunes are good, and Joe's voice-acting fits perfectly.
10.0 Gameplay
The best action title on the GameCube -- Viewtiful Joe rules all. Irresistible and highly addictive action combat packed with fantastic flair.
9.0 Lasting Appeal
VJ is crazy tough, and we lov
e it! Worthy unlockables, but you'll want to keep replaying forever based on the awesome gameplay mechanics alone.
9.5 OVERALL
Tabris
Jiyuu Tenshi
Interview: Atsushi Inaba
October 03, 2003 - Last week at the annual Tokyo Game Show, IGN had the opportunity to catch up with Viewtiful Joe's creator and official representative, Atsushi Inaba. In a small corner of the showfloor, IGN got a one-on-one interview with Inaba where we questioned him on the concept and design philosophies behind Viewtiful Joe, his thoughts on 2D gaming, what his new projects are, and what happened to another project he was working on, Dead Phoenix.
Inaba, a well-mannered and high-spirited industry veteran, has worked on other high-profile projects such as Steel Battalion, and like his unique concepts, we think you will find his commentary on Joe, as well as other topics, equally intriguing.
Henshin-a-go-go, baby!
IGNcube: What inspired you to create Viewtiful Joe?
Atsushi Inaba: When the idea started, I wanted a mixture of Japanese animation and American comic books. That was the basis, but we wanted to make a cool action game; something people haven't played before. That's how we started.
Why was GameCube your platform of choice?
Inaba-san: Actually, the GameCube was able to create the look we were really going after. It had just the right amount of flexibility to do everything we wanted to do with effects, all the particles on the screen, etc. Also we figured for Japan, as well as America, that GameCube had the kind of hardcore action gamers that would want to play the game, so it fit the target.
Why did you choose to make it 2D-style action instead of full 3D, when so many shy away from that these days?
Inaba-san: Well, when the project began we said we wanted to do a superhero game. Where do you see superheroes? Comic books. They're not 3D. They're 2D. They're pieces of paper. So with the 2D art, it was really the style we were going after. When you think about how people view 2D out there, especially on consoles, Viewtiful Joe is fresh and original.
So do you think there's a future for 2D games?
Inaba-san: I don't think 2D games will ever disappear 100%. But it's been around for a long time, and if you want people to play your game, you're going to have to do something original and new. A hook, something that makes it different, to make them say, "Man! I want that game." Because if it's the same as everything we've had up until now, they won't buy it.
Because it is so focused and stylized in the way of Japanese animation, do you think it has a good future in the United States?
Inaba-san: That's actually a really easy question! When we began making this game, we didn't think it was something that Americans would dislike. We made it in a way we hope it could sell anywhere. And we figured it was something the Americans can embrace. What it comes down to is if it's something they like, they'll buy it, and if they don't, they won't buy it and we can't make a second one. It's quite simple math! [laughs]
Are you making a second Viewtiful Joe?
Inaba-san: Of co
urse, we are thinking it's the kind of game that's very good to do a sequel for. However, personally, I am very busy; even if I did want to make it I'm not sure I'd be able to right now. But I'll say this, that if it's the kind of game that sells no company would ever refuse to make a sequel to that game.
As a possible way to bolster sales, are you thinking of releasing it on other platforms?
Inaba-san: That hasn't been decided. Sales are key and we have to see how it does in America. If it's a stinker, we wouldn't release it for other platforms. We'll have to wait a while longer and find out what happens.
What does it mean to be Viewtiful? Is it just about the pink, or is there more?
Inaba-san: [laughs] Viewtiful symbolizes everything that Joe has. So, his moves are cool, he's cool -- he's viewtiful. I mean that not in a feminine way but a masculine way. Even with the pink as his color, it's viewtiful, and he can stand out and get the job done.
Do you think this pink will start a fashion trend?
Inaba-san: If it was really so popular that people were going to start a fashion trend based on my game, that would be great! But, honestly, I don't think American men or Japanese men are interested in dressing in more pink!
What other projects are you working on?
Inaba-san: Actually, I am working on other projects. I'm doing Gyakuten Saiban 3 for the Game Boy Advance. It's a courtroom game and it's been released in Japan before. It's actually doing really well at the show, but unfortunately I don't know if we'll ever bring it to a foreign market. As for new projects, well ... I can only tell you there is one in the works and to look for the announcement. It's fantastic. It's going to be great. Trust me, the Steel Battalion guy, to bring you something original and great. [smiles]
What's the status of Dead Phoenix?
Inaba-san: [stalls] Project Dead Phoenix? Hmm.
[covers mouth and begins to mutter]
Actually, the project I was talking about is not Dead Phoenix, and when you asked me what happened with Dead Phoenix my mouth closed shut, and I couldn't speak anymore! [covers mouth and laughs]
Is your new project for GameCube?
Inaba-san: Actually right now we're only in the planning phase. It really is going to be fantastic. Right now, though, we don't have any plans for which platform it will end up on.
Okay, they tell us that was our last question. Thanks for your time. We're big fans of Viewtiful Joe; thanks for creating something so original.
Inaba-san: Thank you.
October 03, 2003 - Last week at the annual Tokyo Game Show, IGN had the opportunity to catch up with Viewtiful Joe's creator and official representative, Atsushi Inaba. In a small corner of the showfloor, IGN got a one-on-one interview with Inaba where we questioned him on the concept and design philosophies behind Viewtiful Joe, his thoughts on 2D gaming, what his new projects are, and what happened to another project he was working on, Dead Phoenix.
Inaba, a well-mannered and high-spirited industry veteran, has worked on other high-profile projects such as Steel Battalion, and like his unique concepts, we think you will find his commentary on Joe, as well as other topics, equally intriguing.
Henshin-a-go-go, baby!
IGNcube: What inspired you to create Viewtiful Joe?
Atsushi Inaba: When the idea started, I wanted a mixture of Japanese animation and American comic books. That was the basis, but we wanted to make a cool action game; something people haven't played before. That's how we started.
Why was GameCube your platform of choice?
Inaba-san: Actually, the GameCube was able to create the look we were really going after. It had just the right amount of flexibility to do everything we wanted to do with effects, all the particles on the screen, etc. Also we figured for Japan, as well as America, that GameCube had the kind of hardcore action gamers that would want to play the game, so it fit the target.
Why did you choose to make it 2D-style action instead of full 3D, when so many shy away from that these days?
Inaba-san: Well, when the project began we said we wanted to do a superhero game. Where do you see superheroes? Comic books. They're not 3D. They're 2D. They're pieces of paper. So with the 2D art, it was really the style we were going after. When you think about how people view 2D out there, especially on consoles, Viewtiful Joe is fresh and original.
So do you think there's a future for 2D games?
Inaba-san: I don't think 2D games will ever disappear 100%. But it's been around for a long time, and if you want people to play your game, you're going to have to do something original and new. A hook, something that makes it different, to make them say, "Man! I want that game." Because if it's the same as everything we've had up until now, they won't buy it.
Because it is so focused and stylized in the way of Japanese animation, do you think it has a good future in the United States?
Inaba-san: That's actually a really easy question! When we began making this game, we didn't think it was something that Americans would dislike. We made it in a way we hope it could sell anywhere. And we figured it was something the Americans can embrace. What it comes down to is if it's something they like, they'll buy it, and if they don't, they won't buy it and we can't make a second one. It's quite simple math! [laughs]
Are you making a second Viewtiful Joe?
Inaba-san: Of co
urse, we are thinking it's the kind of game that's very good to do a sequel for. However, personally, I am very busy; even if I did want to make it I'm not sure I'd be able to right now. But I'll say this, that if it's the kind of game that sells no company would ever refuse to make a sequel to that game.
As a possible way to bolster sales, are you thinking of releasing it on other platforms?
Inaba-san: That hasn't been decided. Sales are key and we have to see how it does in America. If it's a stinker, we wouldn't release it for other platforms. We'll have to wait a while longer and find out what happens.
What does it mean to be Viewtiful? Is it just about the pink, or is there more?
Inaba-san: [laughs] Viewtiful symbolizes everything that Joe has. So, his moves are cool, he's cool -- he's viewtiful. I mean that not in a feminine way but a masculine way. Even with the pink as his color, it's viewtiful, and he can stand out and get the job done.
Do you think this pink will start a fashion trend?
Inaba-san: If it was really so popular that people were going to start a fashion trend based on my game, that would be great! But, honestly, I don't think American men or Japanese men are interested in dressing in more pink!
What other projects are you working on?
Inaba-san: Actually, I am working on other projects. I'm doing Gyakuten Saiban 3 for the Game Boy Advance. It's a courtroom game and it's been released in Japan before. It's actually doing really well at the show, but unfortunately I don't know if we'll ever bring it to a foreign market. As for new projects, well ... I can only tell you there is one in the works and to look for the announcement. It's fantastic. It's going to be great. Trust me, the Steel Battalion guy, to bring you something original and great. [smiles]
What's the status of Dead Phoenix?
Inaba-san: [stalls] Project Dead Phoenix? Hmm.
[covers mouth and begins to mutter]
Actually, the project I was talking about is not Dead Phoenix, and when you asked me what happened with Dead Phoenix my mouth closed shut, and I couldn't speak anymore! [covers mouth and laughs]
Is your new project for GameCube?
Inaba-san: Actually right now we're only in the planning phase. It really is going to be fantastic. Right now, though, we don't have any plans for which platform it will end up on.
Okay, they tell us that was our last question. Thanks for your time. We're big fans of Viewtiful Joe; thanks for creating something so original.
Inaba-san: Thank you.
E
Enrico Pallazzo
Guest
freu mich auch schon auf das Spiel, endlich mal wieder ein 2D Game mit innovativen Gameplay 
R
RobRoy
Guest
Ich hab das Game bei DVBOXOFFICE bestellt für unter 35 Euro!
Da es so billig ist habe ich zugeschlagen.. bin mal gespannt.
Da es so billig ist habe ich zugeschlagen.. bin mal gespannt.
R
RobRoy
Guest
Original geschrieben von [digi]
die demo? wo gibts denn die demo? so ein spiel hab ich schon lange nimmer gezockt und ich bin ehrlich gesagt geil danach
wann kommt die pal? wo kann man die us ohne kreditkarte bestellen?
Bei mir!
Ich könnte dir ja ein Exemplar mitbestellen. Was kostet denn der normale Versand bei so einem SPiel in D?
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RobRoy
Guest
dann schick mir mal deine Adresse.. es dürfte dann jedenfalls unter 40 Euro werden. Das Spiel selber kostet ja ca. 35 Euro bei DVDBOXOFFICE. Musst mir nur definitiv sagen ob DU es willst und Vorkasse wäre nicht schlecht... weil das Spiel werde ich hier mit Sicherheit nicht los falls DU dann abspringst.
PS: chja, ich würde es gerne mit nem EIsnchreiben oder sonst was schicken sodass ich einen Beweiss habe.. was wäre das da billigste?
R
RobRoy
Guest
Kann denn jemand hier schreiben mit welchem Freeloader man das Game zum laufen bringt? Hat schon jemand Probleme mit dem jap. gehabt?