There was never any doubt in my mind that I was playing this game. I loved the teaser trailer, I loved the setting, I highly regard the studio for all the fun I had with InFamous. Samurai in feudal Japan? Wait, I can play as an assassin as well? I'm sold immediately. All that was shown did nothing to slow down my hype. It might help that this year is... strange to say the least. But this was an adventure that I was craving ever since it was announced.
Having spent my fair share of time with this game, I can honestly say that there were so many times that I had to stop and stare at what was on my screen, pick up my jaw from the floor and collect my emotions. The game is achingly beautiful. The particle effects, the wind on your back, the birds that guide you, a sense of wonder and whimsy that I haven't felt in a while. I dare say the last time I felt something like this was when I played Skyrim for the first time in a fat PS3.
Sucker Punch sure knows that they made eye candy, so they made sure their photo mode takes full advantage of it (and I so thank you for that). Many times I just took some photos because I could do so easily and for great effect. You can set the mood and tone you want to showcase. Your screenshots will always look amazing, no matter what you do. The sheer variety of landscapes just make you want to see more of the island, you want to find every single hidden spot (well, I wanted to at least) because just around the corner there might be something beautiful waiting for you, and begging for a picture. It's in-game tourism.
I played the game in Japanese with English subtitles. I really thought that was the way to play it. The characters had a lot of characteristics that I've seen on Japanese shows and dramas, which only made it seem more authentic. But I bet the greater recognition Sucker Punch could have is the high praise coming from Japan. That's a higher testament to their dedication, to their art, the respect for the source material.
I said goodbye today to this great adventure because I finished everything I had to do. I will come back later to pick up some flowers, traverse the island and bask in those warm orange sunsets that fill my soul with joy because I want to get all the cool stuff and chill for a while. Thank you, Sucker Punch. This was a hell of a ride.
