Phoenix Gamer Review: Child of Eden (Xbox 360)

Child of Eden was released back in June of this year for both the Xbox 360 and the Playstation 3. While it aimed to make use of the motion control peripherals for each console, it was also playable with the console's regular controllers. Here we will take a look at the game as a whole, and the difference between playing with the controller and the Kinect.

Known as the spiritual successor to Rez, coincidentally made under the codename "Project Eden", Child of Eden is actually supposed to be a prequel. Then why call it 'child' of Eden? Wouldn't that imply that it's a sequel? Regardless, the story is unimportant. Something about a super computer and a virus. Both games are known for being stylized shoot 'em ups with musical components taking place of the usual sound effects and stunning abstract visuals, creating a unique gaming experience to anyone who hasn't played either game. If you have played Rez and plan on playing Child of Eden, you may be underwhelmed. Don't misunderstand though, it's not a bad game, it's just sticks a little too close to the game that came before it.
Just like Rez, you're on a set course shooting with you weapons and what was known as "overdrive" is now "euphoria". You can pick up additional health and euphoria power ups from select defeated enemies, not much has changed. The visuals have been improved, of course, and are themed to represent their titles, for example the level 'beauty' includes flowers and strange winged creatures, whereas 'matrix' places you inside a computer like environment. My favorite was probably the second level where a giant transparent whale looking things turns into a giant phoenix against a background of nebulae. It's beautiful...for the first time anyways. When you have to play the level multiple times, even the absurdly breathtaking becomes mundane (though still probably one of the better games to bring up in an 'are video games art?' debate). Herein lies the other problem with this game, it's way too short. It's only 5 levels long and the entire thing can be beaten in a little less than an hour. That's not something I'd expect from a game that cost as much as any brand new current gen title. A downloadable game, sure, but a full length game? It's really unacceptable. There are some extras like visual effects that change the colors of the levels, and additional sound options, but that's still not enough content to warrant a full price tag.

Controller or Kinect?
While the game's box cover boasts "Better with Kinect Sensor!" I'd have to disagree. When you're playing with the controller, there's only 3 button options gun 1, gun 2, and euphoria. Easy-peasy. Just move the d-pad and shoot, it's actually kind of fun! When you attempt to play with the Kinect, you will be frustrated to no end. Not only because of the Kinect's slight delay, but also the supposedly simple controls are almost impossible to pull off. After re-calibrating my Kinect to make sure I wasn't crazy, it was still a pain to even navigate around the screen. When I tried to fire my lock-on attack the screen would just move to the side and stay there, not allowing me to move much at all. Considering this was supposed to be one of the Kinect's launch titles, I was extremely disappointed. It's much easier to navigate levels and take in all the imagery enjoy the experience as a whole when you play with the controller instead of fighting with poor motion controls.Overall this game is worth a quick play through and serves as more of a conversation piece than a full-on gaming experience.

Child of Eden gets a 7/10

Review submitted by Phoenix Gamer's Mel

3 Gaming venues Phoenix needs

Sweet Places we'd like to game

In today's day and age of technology, there's no reason why anyone would or should want to leave their house to go game with friends in a public place. Or is there?
The days of classic arcades have come and gone, but some venues still run strong. What is that little extra thing that they bring to the table? What are these venues and how could the Phoenix gaming community benefit from them?

1. Video Game Cafe -
Ah, nothing goes together like caffeine and video games. Is there any other place that you can go to get your game on while sipping on an expertly made latte? Of course, there's Gotham Comics in Mesa, but they aren't a game place exclusively (but totally worth checking out). Imagine sitting down to your favorite warm or cold beverage, on comfy sofas, playing some of your favorite games while checking out some sweet game art, and just chilling. Maybe pick up a game themed snack or drink. Whether it's during the cold season, or in the heat of summer, there's sure to be something for every gamer at a game cafe.

2. Arcade in the Airport -
Phoenix's Sky Harbor is not only an international airport, but also one of the biggest in the country. It's surprising that there's not a single arcade machine or game console to be found anywhere around here. Say you're on a flight and you have a layover in Phoenix. What will you do during that time? What if it's just a couple of hours? I don't know about you, but when I'm gaming the time goes by pretty quick. No longer will passenger be burdened and bored by mundane in-between time when they can pump some quarters into an arcade game or two.

3. Video Game Bar -
Oh yeah, like you didn't see this one coming. Much like #1 up there, it's safe to say that games and drinks are a match made in heaven. It's pretty much been proven that it's a successful venture with gaming bars around the world (UK, Australia, Las Vegas, etc) popping up and making a killing while providing a safe and fun environment for gamers to hang out and socialize. Downtown Phoenix would be a perfect location to open a gaming bar for sure. Maybe even Mill ave could see a nice amount of traffic. Phoenix is growing and new businesses are booming, there's no reason why we shouldn't have a video game bar.

If you like the idea of any of these venues, be sure to contact everyone you know and let them know because ideas can turn into actions, and something magical might happen!