Viewtiful Joe

Haven't heard about Viewtiful Joe yet? If not, then it’s about time you learn why Capcom's latest is earning such a large following in Japan. Easily one of the most refreshing titles to come around in some time, Viewtiful Joe is all about kicking ass and looking good while doing it. Of course, that's not all this old-school beat em' up is about; Viewtiful Joe bleeds of style and charm and is aimed to garner mass attention when it releases on our shores.

The story basically revolves around Joe's attempt to rescue his girlfriend Sylvia after she is strangely sucked into a movie by a demented villain--the same outlaw who defeated Captain Blue, famed superhero. The ailing Captain bestows Joe with the necessary powers to find Sylvia and slay the person who kidnapped her. Though not exactly riveting, the plot isn't the predominate factor in the game's entertainment.

Levels in Viewtiful Joe take on a side-scrolling perceptive, but don't think for a second that a mainly-2D game means less-impressive graphics. On the contrary; Joe's adventure is downright gorgeous, with terrific animation and vibrant colors that contribute to sexy aesthetics. Fighting takes up a huge majority in a given stage, and I'm proud to say that combat here never gets old. The player is initially limited in terms of moves, but eventually three significant powers become available--mach speed, zoom, and slow. Mach speed will increase the velocity of Joe's overall movements and punches and kicks, leaving opponents stupefied in oblivion. Zoom brings the camera closer to our hero and intensifies moves; and slow decreases the speed of time, allowing a passage to enemies' weak spot, among other important things.

Unleashing each power is both pretty and recommended, since only by stringing together combos can you earn more points to purchase new abilities and health between levels. The most beautiful part about these moves is that they're not just limited to combat; numerous puzzles require proper implementation of each maneuver, like using ‘slow‘ to stop a fan-platform in midair and hop to another area.

As of now, Viewtiful Joe is shaping up quite nicely. The visuals are a mesmerizing adaptation of what a comic book in motion would look like; the combat not only looks good but plays great; and even the audio experience and replay value (a rumored playtime of 12-15 hours plus tons of unlockables) are impressive.

This game is definitely one to watch out for; Viewtiful Joe hits store shelves in October. Look for a review from Toocubed as when becomes available.