In terms of fantasy RPG’s, Sorcery isn’t going to be overtly complicated to make Finn into a stronger sorcerer. While it may not feature a skill tree or experience points, Finn can still get stronger. He becomes stronger through the use of potions. Potions give Finn permanent active and passive abilities, such as an increase in maximum health, increased mana and a stronger Arcane Bolt. In order to actually use potions, players must find out which three ingredients are combined through research. After finding the combination, players must have an empty potion bottle in order to mix it. The mixing isn’t automatic, players must create the potion. The mechanic is similar to that found in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (the current generation versions), except it only involves adding the ingredients and stirring. With that said, it is still great to see the developers utilise the Move effectively with the potion making sequences. To consume potions, players shake the Move controller, before tipping it upside down to drink it. Health potions are also available, which can be bought from an alchemist or found in the game world.
Now, just because there are a variety of spells with excellent controls does not mean other areas of the game are well designed. Puzzles also make an appearance in Sorcery. The problem is that the puzzles are way too simple, even for a child. There is little challenge for the player. Yes, the game is targeted to children. However, it should not be an excuse for poor puzzles. The structure of the levels is repetitive. Basically, all the levels are running to an open space and then fighting enemies, solving a puzzle or both. There is some deviation to find treasures, but very little to spice up the level. Speaking of the enemies, the game designers overuse certain types of enemies. Expect to encounter bogies, small troll like creatures, in various forms throughout the game. Ghostly spirits also make an appearance. The problem is that they appear too often, despite the various forms. There are areas of the game which could be improved.
Visuals and Audio
The visuals are inspired by Celtic mythology. The levels are eye-popping in terms of the use of colour, a rare trend in a generation of photo-realistic graphics. With that said, some of the settings are quite uninspiring or just bland. While the outdoors was quite good looking, caves and other indoor settings were lifeless. Enemy designs are a mixed bag. Some of the enemies had interesting designs, particularly the trolls. However, enemies like the bogies were not that good. They looked like smaller trolls with different colours. Some, like the Fire Shaman, had different features, like crystals attached to them. The best visuals have to go to Finn and Erline. They are very impressive character models. Spell animations are also great. The soundtrack features mostly orchestral tracks and there are quite enjoyable. The right tracks are in the right place. Sound effects are also used well, although the bogeys death grunts sound a little underwhelming.
Overall
Sorcery seems to be the game everyone wanted for the Playstation Move. It may not be that killer title, but it is definitely a game worth checking out. The Move is accurate and responsive in spell casting, with a variety of spells to use as the game progresses. Potions are the only way to strengthen Finn, with the potion making section an excellent mechanic. The story is entertaining, even though it is quite short. Finn and Erline are excellent, likeable characters with an interesting friendship. Their character models are impressive, as well as some of the locales. With that said, the game is weighed down by poor puzzles, repetitive enemies, uninspiring and poorly structured levels and the overuse of enemy design. Even with the knowledge of those hiccups, Sorcery is still a must have for any Move library.
