Review Rewind: Angelic Concert for XBOX

Having been a fan of 'cute' anime style games, I was more than ready to dive in to this wonderful game by Success though I didn't quite know what to expect other than the usual anime intro. Sure enough, there was a well drawn animated sequence to draw you in.

There is a story that was presented very well by high quality art, beautiful voice acting where necessary, and a load of text that I didn't quite know how to read.. but, that's beside the point. It doesn't take a genius to keep pressing the

You're a DJ, if DJ's existed in the medieval magical setting that the story is based on, who happen to be the 'music' behind the voice of the main character. Now, while I don't quite know her name, her aim in life is to aim higher in her musical career by entering the Angelic Concert. The winner receives fame, fortune and adventure on the short but well-drawn way to the concert.

Gameplay

With your own ambitions to be a world class DJ, the gameplay resembles the stylings of Parappa the Rappa for the Playstation, though with less distractions and lengthy Japanese musical interludes.

The control scheme is simple. Use the four buttons along with the directional pad to hit the notes with the correct timing. Sounds easy enough? While it may sound a little too simple, the game does provide minor challenges along the way. For example, if there was a fork in the road, depending on your choice, you may be faced with different puzzles, introduced to different characters and perform different songs.

The stages also contain an applause meter, or an audience meter and the goal in each stage is to gain the highest respects you can out of the poor blokes. As the game progresses, you will find yourself reaching for faster beats and notes that would, at times, require you to quick-perform fire-ball motions just to get by. Regardless of how poorly you play, the singer(s) will continue their song with exceptional control and professionalism.

With at least a chance of exploring three different paths, the game offers a moderate-to-high replay value for those of you who wish to meet every character and listen to every track. However, be warned that even a single path sometimes contain repeats of songs depending sorely on your poor choice. Upon completion of the game, you will have the satisfaction of humming songs you never knew and a penchant of extras.

Graphics and Sound

Superb high-quality anime art accompanies each scene and town that you may enter. From the backgrounds to the living hair ornaments, everything is given ample detail. There are sprites specially made for the musicals that dance and twirl, and there's no denying that you'll giggle when the DJ misses his notes.

The music is well delivered and sometimes dependent on your own performance. The sound effects, while it isn't quite diverse, adds suspense and comedic sense where necessary throughout the story. Simple, pleasant and sometimes folksy. Still, unless you were one to expect raging techno, I doubt you'll be bored or surprised.

Results

This game is a success (pun), in all aspects, except for one. It's not for just anyone.

While in comparison to the today's 3-d induced world this game might even prove to be less than appealing but will do well in the favored hands of old schoolers and anime fans. Whether you can read Japanese or not, the games interesting affairs are sure to keep you busy, at least until someone decides to bring out the next big thing.

The Positives:
+ Beautiful Anime Art
+ Well sung Japanese songs
+ Great voice acting
+ Multitudes of extras
+ Great replay value

The Negatives:
- Some songs may put you to sleep
- Lacks appeal to some
- Graphics are great, but not up to date
- Long story, short game
- Low difficulty