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Byte-Size Review
Mirror’s Edge 2D

If you haven’t played the 2D online interpretation of Mirror’s Edge, you should think about doing so immediately - but maybe finish reading this post first. It’s bizarre, the idea that a side-scrolling interpretation of a game intended to innovate the first-person perspective could work so well and simply fit from play-zero - but here we are. The concept and design of DICE’s game come together so perfectly here, that it is nothing short of simple, harmonious game-play - like better days, long past but not forgotten.

The cold capitalistic designs of the city create a picturesque backdrop for the bold splatters of yellow and red that strike out in layers of faux depth. Thought of the day – Minimalist design suits 2D. Faith’s animations are more natural against this, the fluidity of movement captured from her busy feet all the way up to the sway of her hair. And this is how it should be. Faith should be defined and understood not by narrative, but by the motions of her body. Her identity is movement, and her personality is the subtle accentuation of her form as it flexes, bends, grabs, dives, and leaps toward her goal.

The added bonus here is the realization of depth within a level. Multiple paths feed exploration as you hunt for messenger bags and collect red icons. And in a truly bizarre moment, when trying to maintain speed while grabbing objects, I felt the bite of nostalgia for the little blue hedgehog that I first experienced this particular type of game-play with. But playing now in a scenario of Faith vs. The City, where pure navigation, reflex, and item collection is the goal, the formula seems to have improved enough that there’s reason to take notes.

The only question is why this isn’t on the PSP. But since I don’t expect an answer on that right away, I’ll end the rant and let you get to it.

Posted in Awesome, Byte-Size Reviews |