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Review of Knights Contract on PS3

by Hemal Harris Hemal Harris photo Feb 2011
Cover image of Knights Contract on PS3
Gamefings Score: 5
Platform: PS3 PS3 logo
Released: 22 Feb 2011
Genre: Action
Developer: Game Republic
Publisher: Namco Bandai Games

Introduction

Welcome to the medieval mayhem of Knights Contract, where you experience a story dripping with more drama than a reality show reunion special. The game thrusts you into the boots of Heinrich, an executioner cursed with eternal life (thanks, Faust!). You'll battle through the ruins of a dark fantasy world alongside Gretchen, a witch whose life decisions seem just as questionable as the game's AI. Buckle up because 'Knights Contract' is a chaotic ride filled with challenges, combo chains, and the potent mix of magic and mayhem.

Gameplay

Right from the get-go, expect a hack-and-slash extravaganza that makes you feel like a medieval superhero... minus the part where your sidekick can potentially screw up your whole day. You control Heinrich while Gretchen functions like a tag team partner who sometimes refuses to follow the game plan. The combat system leans heavily on buttons mashing strategy with a sprinkle of light RPG elements, allowing for combo chains that feel more satisfying than finding a five-dollar bill in your pocket. Each level is structured like a runway where Heinrich prances about, slashing at baddies while Gretchen blasts spells from behind. The result? Lots of monsters turned into poolside confetti**-if you can get to them without tripping over your own feet or your partner's unpredictability.** Let's break down the action: - **Heinrich** is your brawny lead with some seriously beefy melee attacks, perfect for lacerating enemies with style-**or a big, old heavy sword.** - **Gretchen's magic**, on the other hand, brings a wild card into the mix. Rely on her to assist, but be wary: her AI sometimes behaves like an excitable puppy who can't figure out where to take a dump. Expect **boss fights** that resemble staged wrestling events. You'll rely on quick reflexes and some serious button-pressing ability (hello QTEs!) to deliver the final blow. Fail to nail the quick time events, and you might as well hand a portion of the boss's health back. Lovely. Collecting souls from your fallen foes allows you to level up Gretchen's spells, upgrading her from "Lethargic Spell-Slinger" to "Badass Warlock Circa 1700." And yes, if you're wondering, you indeed have to pay attention to her health as it is directly tied to your mission success.

Graphics

Let's get this out of the way-graphics-wise, Knights Contract is like that friend who shows up to a costume party and claims their look is 'vintage.' **It ain't pretty, folks.** While the art design shines with fantastical creatures and environments catered for a dark fantasy tale, the technical side is more 'meh'. Imagine a castle built from sand-looks promising at first, but it crumbles under scrutiny. Character designs, on the other hand, have their moments-especially the witches; they are like the supermodels of the bad magic world, flaunting style and sorcery. But don't get too excited; those save points look like they were crafted from cardboard found in a dumpster. The animations can also feel jarring. Watching combat flow sometimes resembles observing a live-action reenactment of a fight between two drunk uncle's at a barbecue. Ouch!

Conclusion

In a final analysis, Knights Contract, while ambitious with engaging gameplay mechanics, stumbles pretty hard over its own clumsy feet-almost as if Heinrich himself had a little too much to drink before heading into battle. The blend of melee and magic combat offers some fun, but the game's glaring AI flaws and frustrating quick time events serve to dampen the experience. The game may coax out some chuckles and genuine enjoyment, but it's also a reminder that some contracts come with hidden costs... like your sanity as you face a poorly executed team-up! Overall, Knights Contract earns a **5 out of 10:** not a total wash, but get ready to either embrace its quirks or throw your controller in exasperation. Proceed at your own risk-it's a wild medieval ride that's both hilariously chaotic and peculiarly charming. If you can put up with its flaws, you might even find some enjoyment lurking among the ruins. Just remember: eternal life is great, but it doesn't come with a manual on teamwork.

See Latest Prices for Knights Contract on PS3 on Amazon

See Prices for Knights Contract on PS3 on Ebay

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