Crimson Tears, Sony Playstation

In a time where shareholders and investors really have more say in a company's plans than is deserved, there are very few developers out there willing to take the risk to create something different on the off-chance that it might just be a success. However, Capcom is one of them, and following the likes of Under the Skin and Gregory Horror Show is Crimson Tears. Set in the mid-21st century in future Japan, Crimson Tears is a distinctive cel-shaded beat-em-up of sorts with hints of role-playing elements and nuances from Hunter: The Reckoning and others like it. When the streets of Japan become an ever-changing labyrinth caused by an unknown 'incident', three members of ARMA, the game's scantily-clad protagonists, embark on a dangerous mission to lay an enemy threat to rest and uncover mysteries surrounding them. These three characters, named Kadie, Tokio and Amber, will be your ammunition throughout the Crimson Tears adventure. Charged with negotiating an abundance of futuristic dungeons, players must face and survive wave upon wave of enemy attacks that are mostly defeated by means of hi-tech weaponry and close-quarters combat. A simplified RPG playing style kicks in when players receive experience and even level-ups as they emerge victorious in battle. Players are also able to boost power and defence, as well as equip performance enhancing weapons that are acquired by sacrificing redundant items in your inventory to a local synthesist. But that's as complicated as it gets. The visual style and presentation of Crimson Tears is something rarely seen in a game of this type, but it works extremely well, bringing an authentic anime feel to the proceedings. For Capcom, Crimson Tears is one risk definitely worth investing in. With an unusually in-depth plot, a simple play mechanic and great longevity, Crimson Tears is hopefully the first in a very successful series.

Buy Crimson Tears for 3.99 GBP

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