WORDS: Chris Rooke
Chances are when describing a game in which you play as a lawyer, most folk would raise their eyebrows and shuffle away from the prospect. The Ace Attorney games are so much more than that though. With four titles and one spin-off released over the last decade or so on DS, it was one of the prime examples of a Japanese title that wouldn’t normally make it to this side of the world. Having gained a cult following thanks to its charm and addictive gameplay, how does the transition to 3DS hold up?
The major update to the game is very obvious from the off: gone are the 2D sprites and locations of old, replaced by stunning 3D models and dynamic, deep environments. While not a technological achievement, the developers have done a stunning job in replicating the sprites and the artwork in the 3D models, which really do look wonderful: the cel-shaded style works perfectly in the game, and the use of said models allows for more fluid actions by the characters, rather than just jumping from one pose to another. Anime cutscenes, a new addition for the series, don’t feel out of place as a result, and are amply sprinkled throughout the game. It’s interesting to note that many of these improvements feel as though they are inspired by the Professor Layton games – an interesting observation given the upcoming crossover game between the two franchises due for release next year.
The 3D locations also allow for some really swishy camera work, upping the ante in hectic courtroom scenes, and allowing for new locations and evidence to be discovered when investigating the case. The music has been given a radical update alongside that, giving all the familiar character themes a revamp, including some really epic tracks for the climax of each case. For any longtime players, the opening sequence when Phoenix dons his trademark blue suit and a remixed version of his theme plays will induce goosebumps and giddiness.
There are five such cases included in the game, all contributing to a well-constructed story arc. While some might find the ending a tad unsatisfying, the individual cases are well written (despite a plethora of typos throughout), with some genuinely well laid plot twists. Each case rests on the cast of colourful characters that the creators have dreamed: a typically eccentric bunch, each with their own trademark catchphrases and outfits, all of whom contribute to the story and the building of a world that is very enjoyable to spend time in. Followers of the series will be delighted to see some old characters making a return, although these arguably are some of the weaker points of the game, and do feel suspiciously like they’re just there to please the fans, rather than to contribute in a meaningful way.
The plots are similarly eclectic and mad, and there’s not much change in the gameplay either. The game has actually become more linear: it’s difficult to miss what you’re supposed to be looking for most of the time. While this does make the game easier, it removes all of the incredibly frustrating instances of not knowing what to do or where to go, and so playing through becomes a lot smoother. Gone are the days of wandering around various locations, pixel-hunting to find that last piece of evidence, or spending hours presenting random pieces of evidence to random characters in the hopes that something will click: instead, there’s a ‘to-do’ list available on the bottom screen that offers directions for how to progress next: a welcome change that fits in, and allows the game to continue flowing. Moving between locations has also been sped up, with the ability to travel to any location at any time – no more wandering from lobbies to hallways to rooms, just one direct line.
Ace Attorney isn’t for everyone: if you can’t stand stereotypical anime kitsch characters and dialogue, text-based games, or can’t suspend belief to accept the absurd supernatural plots then it’s probably not for you. If, however, you do enjoy those, look no further: with incredibly engaging characters, gorgeous visuals and artwork, a soundtrack that gets the blood pumping, and unique gameplay, Ace Attorney will keep you hooked and give you a whole new world to fall head over heels in love with.
Ace Attorney: Dual Destinies is released on Nintendo 3DS eShop on 24 October, €24.99.
