Malicious by Ramón Perez
Malicious is a PSN exclusive fast paced 3d action game developed by Alvion with beautiful imagery and graphics that is reminiscent of games like El Shaddai. Though only available in Japan for a while, European and Western gamers now have a chance to download the game for 9.99.
You take the role of a “Spirit Vessel” an ethereal being that depending on the player’s choice can be either male or female. The spirit vessel uses its long scarf as a weapon, and possesses different forms ideal for certain situations in combat. While playing it should be noted that this is not a mindless button masher that anyone can jump in and fool around with the hopes of progressing, no. While the game is enjoyable, action gamers and gamers in general who like a challenge will enjoy it even more. In my opinion, this is one of the hardest action game titles I have played, and trust me I have played MANY. The goal of Malicious is to fight off hordes of armies and gain more power, while at the same time avoiding a boss like (often giant) enemy known as the “Malicious”.
Every stage is played like a boss battle, and though you are given a limited amount of combos and abilities at the start, after conquering stages and defeating the “Malicious”, you gain more combos and the ability of said “Malicious” you defeated. The game is not long in terms of stages since there are only 5 areas, but due to the games challenging play, it may take longer depending on the player’s skill. Now for some pros and cons of the game: Camera, movement, and combat take a while to get use to. The camera can be iffy when needing it in a certain place or direction, especially when you are moving at a fast pace. The fighting may feel limited upon starting the game, but as mentioned before, new moves and scarf forms will be unlocked.
For 9.99, it’s not a bad little game, and worth it for those who don’t mind raging, while at the same time, enjoying the experience. I give this title an 8 out of 10! Awesome work!
