Game Room: Weekly Roundup

Review: Dead Space 3

Electronic Arts

Publisher: Electronic Arts

Systems: Xbox 360, PS3, PC

Fans of sci-fi horror gaming have probably been exposed to the Dead Space franchise by now, so it’s safe to say those who liked the previous games will enjoy Dead Space 3. The latest iteration attempts to improve the formula with mixed results by introducing a new weapons-upgrade system, co-op campaign play and new wrinkles to the story arc.

When you play, you're constantly exploring and gathering resources that you'll use to upgrade weapons and power up your space suit. There’s a lot of flexibility in this system, but the upgrade interface is wonky and not as intuitive as it should be. Playing Dead Space 3 co-op is pretty great, but any sense of impending dread the designers were aiming for gets wiped out when you know you’re not alone in the dark.

The game's story is contrived and not very engaging, but thankfully Dead Space 3 makes good on delivering amazing third-person combat, impressive graphics and top-notch audio design. It all combines for an effective atmospheric experience.

Score: 8 out of 10

Review: Sly Cooper: Thieves in Time

Sony Entertainment

Publisher: Sony

Systems: PS3, PS Vita

Sony’s decision to return the Sly Cooper franchise back to active duty this late in the life of the PS3 console is interesting. Thieves in Time is technically the sequel to 2005’s PS2 title, Sly 3: Honor Among Thieves. In this latest version you’ll play as Sly as he travels through time from Feudal Japan to Medieval England to combat the evil time-bending Paradox. Playable characters include Sly’s allies, Bentley and Murray, as well as Sly’s ancestors.

The gameplay is focused on stealth exploration, puzzles and plenty of running and jumping around. Thieves in Time is cleverly written, though the visuals won’t blow you away. A big plus: The game smartly employs Sony’s cross save feature which allows you to share game progress between a PS3 and Vita if you have both.

Score: 8 out of 10