Heavenly Sword Reviews

• 6 hours Long...SO WHAT!?!?

  
  By A3TS9IDXZMTOWW on 2007-09-19
  Game Review: Heavenly Sword (PS3)
  
  OMG!! If I hear one more person complain about the length of this game I swear I am going to scream!! First off let me address the fact. It is obvious to me that people complained about the length, because the game is so FRIGGN SWEET and they wanted more. I simply adore the fact that this game is so short, I have a job and family of four and only get to sit and play games for maybe an hour or two here and there. Why do people put such of an emphasis on the length of a game? Saying things like "for $60 this game should be longer". No game IMO is worth 60 bucks, but that is what they charge. I don't feel justified when I spend 60 bucks on a game and it is 20+ hours long. I feel justified by how the game impressed me or how I felt after I finished it. Did I have a memorable experience and maybe how much replay value is there? Heavenly Sword addresses all these questions, with an astounding YES. The only game I have ever played twice that was 20+ hours long was Final Fantasy 7. Otherwise with most longer games I was so glad it was over, that I wouldn't dare go through it again. With short games you can play them over and over be glad you like say Resident Evil. If you want to complain about the price tag, just complain about the price tag!! But please don't place a negative on a game just because it is a little shorter than others. Simply put I would pay 60 bucks for this masterpiece faster than any 20+ hour game I can think of.
  
  Now that I am off my soapbox, let me just say that this game is probably the best entertainment experience I have had in a long time. I say entertainment, because this game is like participating in a karate movie with a great story. It immediately pulls you into its wonderful cinematic story. This game is a crowning achievement from beginning to end. Please do not compare this game to God of War or Prince of Persia, both are great in there own respect, but Heavenly sword destroys them. Both God of War and Prince of Persia are platformers at the core and Heavenly sword is not. You can not jump which some say is a negative, but in that same respect you don't have to worry about falling off any cliffs either.
  
  Yes I will say it Heavenly Sword is the most beautiful game I have ever played, from the cinematic cut-scenes, to the very intense battles. The developers definitely took their time doing this one right! Every battle is like watching Uma Thurman in Kill Bill dispatch a room full of enemies. While this might sound monotonous, the style in which Nariko dispatches of her enemies makes me wish they just kept coming. Blocks, counter attacks, combos, ability to pick things up and hurl them at enemies, and last but not least those GORGEOUS finishing moves are what makes the battles such a joy. I think what I liked most about the game is that it never felt like a straight button mashing affair, you'll actually need to time your blocks, attacks and counters.
  
  Don't think it is all fighting though; alternatively you'll get to play as Kai. Kai is the ultimate fight from a distance companion. And with her comes one of the games BEST gimmicks. The "aftertouch" system, which I ABSOLUTELY loved, allows you to slow down time and aim the arrows with the Sixaxis controller. It does take some practice and you need a gentle touch to make sure the controller is level before firing. Once you get the hang of it though, guiding an arrow's path directly into the skull of an enemy never ever gets old.
  
  The game isn't perfect. I found the button-pressing sections of the game where you have to hit a certain button when it pops up on screen very distracting. Heavenly sword engrosses you so much into the story that I just wanted to watch the cinematic experiences not actually participate in them, so I was constantly mistiming things. There weren't many sections like this, but I wouldn't have missed them if they were gone.
  
  Bottom line: This is the game that will remind you why you wanted a PS3 in the first place. If you own a PS3 or have a friend who has a PS3, you MUST play this game. If you don't have access to a PS3 you are seriously missing out on one of the gaming industries masterpieces. Sure there are other great games on other systems that are outstanding. Heavenly Sword though, will have you thinking about it when you aren't playing it and that is what makes a gaming masterpiece. Whether you rent or buy is really irrelevant JUST PLAY IT!! Yeah it may be only about 6 hours or so long, but soon as I get the chance I am going to play through it again, yeah it is that good. With as many games as I have played through my life, I can't remember the last game I actually wanted to play through a second time. Oh yeah I can Final Fantasy 7 (September 1997)
  
  
  

• One of the best, original games on the PS3 yet

  
  By AJKWF4W7QD4NS on 2007-09-11
  Could it be that the Playstation 3 is finally getting some exclusive, must own games? Heavenly Sword, the eagerly anticipated hack & slasher from Sony, may look as if it's a toned down God of War, but don't let that fool you. Boasting some incrediblely mouth watering graphics and superb controls, Heavenly Sword puts you in the role of Nariko: a female warrior who wields said sword and takes down hordes of enemies in the process. While this may sound like it'll get boring after a while (like many games of the genre do), Heavenly Sword manages to keep things pretty fresh by implementing different play styles, playable characters, and puzzle elements as well. The game also boasts some incredible production values, excellent music and sound effects, great voice acting, and entertaining cinematics and story as well. The only real negative to Heavenly Sword is that the game is quite short. It won't take you long to get through the game (you could beat it in an afternoon if you so desired), and though there are a nice selection of unlockables and extras to find as well, the replay factor isn't very high here. Not to mention that the puzzle elements aren't anything we haven't seen before either, but these negatives don't take away the fact that Heavenly Sword is one of the best, original games to hit the PS3 yet. All in all, Heavenly Sword is a fun blast while it lasts, and needless to say, if you own a PS3, this is one of the games you've been waiting to get your hands on since you purchased the console.
  
  

• Decent game, but really short

  
  By A2UN5UY8Q6YMOF on 2007-10-12
  I basically liked this game-what little there was of it. It has great graphics, fairly smooth framerate, and solid controls. The story is interesting, and the boss battles are decent.
  
  And now the problems. First, the game is really short. I think I finished the game in under 8 hours. There are only 4 bosses and you fight the flying fox twice. The cutscenes seemed almost as long as the actual playtime. The game is also pretty easy-I think I died twice the entire game and that was during boss battles. It is mostly a button masher, but I really liked using the tilt controls for guiding arrows and cannon balls. Finally, there is really no replay value. Once you finish the game, hell mode is unlocked, but I really didn't want to play through the same levels again even if they were more difficult. There is no way this game is worth full price. I recommend renting it.
  
  

• Rent don't buy

  
  By A28QJUDR8JQ8IX on 2007-11-12
  This is actually a great game. It has nonstop action all the way through. Unlike most games you don't bored doing the samething over again. If I had the oppurtunity to buy this game again i wouldn't. This game ends fast and is not worth the 60 bucks that you will pay for it. It's great for those long weekends that you sit and play. I would have rented it if i had the chance to. I hope this review helps.
  
  

• Demo shows promise

  
  By A12Y7SJXJR13NV on 2007-07-26
  This game hasn't been released yet! However, the demo that's availiable for free from the playstation store is amazing. The controls are vey tight and the graphics are a sight to behold. The demo is only about 10 mins long depending on how qudkly you can pick up the controls. Lots of fun combos do make this game a lot of fun. I recently bought a HDTV and the colors and graphics really reach out and grab you on it. I'm very excited about this game. The actual release should be this September.
  
  
• This really could have been amazing but fall short.
  By A5U47MA2KSTGS on 2007-09-12
  First, I like to mention this game's the greatest strength. It looks amazing. Its graphic and presentation are absolutely top notch. Many would agree that this is one of the prettiest game on the market today.
  
  Playing this game is like being in a kung fu movie. Great graphic and fantastic voice acting really help you to immense yourself into the game.
  
  However, not everything about this game is good as its graphic unfortunately.
  
  Even though this game is placed as an action adventure game, you will not be doing whole a lot of adventuring in this one. There are few puzzles but mostly, it is about fighting minions after minions (similar to Dynasty warriors in that aspect) and this pattern is broken off by occasional boss battles.
  
  its combat system does have some depth (Thankfully so) and is interesting. This is good things because you will be doing a lot of fighting. But ultimately, it does get boring. The fact that enemy minions don't vary much (I believe there are only 4 or 5 types of enemies for the whole game) doesn't help at all.
  
  Lastly, This game is about 6 hours long. I don't have problem with it being 6 hours. I just don't like the fact that it is 60 bucks for 6 hours of game play. This game doesn't really have replay value either. Well. you can play the game again in harder difficulty but really?
  
  I seriously suggest that you rent this game and enjoy it. It is a very good game but in my honest opinion, it doesn't make a whole a lot of sense in buying this one.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
• Short but good Lord is it sweet!
  By A2ES8VRDSHH0LW on 2007-09-23
  First let me state that Heavenly Sword is NOT God of War. It's NOT Ninja Gaiden, Devil May Cry, or any other game of similar vein. Do not play this game expecting it to be like said titles.
  
  The Good: Graphics. Absolutely amazing, and the cut scenes are mindblowing. They really outdid themselves in this department. They shot for an interactive cinematic experience and they completely nailed it. Animations are smooth as butter. This will surely raise the bar for other companies in the future.
  
  Combat. This game focuses on counter attacks and combo moves. It's not about button mashing. When I originally played the demo released on PSN I was a little disappointed, but it was because I went around playing it the wrong way. Once you learn what you're doing it's a joy to play.
  
  Audio. Sound effects were well done and fitting, and the music was great. The voice acting was phenomenal, although there seemed to be a rather drastic difference in accents, etc. This did not take away from its enjoyment.
  
  Story. Entertaining all the way through. You get to really like the characters, even the bad ones. The story is not breaking any new ground, but it's well done.
  
  Now for the Bad: Graphics. As I said before, they are terrific. Unfortunately there are times when the frame rate stutters, even during cut scenes. There is also screen tearing which gets rather annoying, but doesn't detract from the enjoyment or game play.
  
  Length: It's been said before, but it's because it's true. The game is short. Very short. Between 5 to 7 hours. There seems to be some re playability, as you can go through again on Hell Mode, as well as trying to collect all 3 glyphs for every stage you've previously done.
  
  To PS3 owners: This is a must buy, I can't stress it enough. Even though it lacks length, it's a terrific game all the way through. A great way to justify the purchase of your PS3.
  
  
  
  
• The reason you bought a PS3. True next gen game.
  By A1E110L9ZKX6FD on 2007-09-25
  To call Heavenly Sword just a game is an insult to the obvious blood sweat and tears that went into creating it. Heavenly Sword is a multi media entertainment package that is both a game and a movie experience. To play it is to understand the meaning of that statement.
  
  I've played many games in my life. Started out with an Atari 2600. Many good games I have played too in that time span since the golden days of gaming started. Heavenly Sword ranks up there as one of the best. Yes it is short but again this more then just a "game". The voice acting and CGI work is without a doubt some of the best I've ever seen in regard to presentation and just draws you right into the story from frame number one. The visuals of the game play itself are breath taking. Truly a work of art to savor and enjoy. You will find yourself while playing just taking a moment to pause and stare at the splendor on your screen. Granted it does help to have nice HDTV for the ultimate eye candy. In this respect my review is biased because I am playing this on a 47 inch full 1080p LCD HDTV. Even though the game itself is only 720p and 30fps it does not in any take away from the splendor of what you are seeing on the screen.
  
  The game play itself is fluid and easy to adapt to. The combo system is fantastic and implemented well. The musical score fits the mood. The story is engaging and keeps you glued to the PS3 wanting to find out what happens next awaiting the next awesome cut scene. Plus the extras that are available are enough to keep you busy past the 6 hours or so of game play. This is not a rental folks, this is a must buy. It's the type of game you will want to pull out to play again or to showcase the power the PS3 to your friends.
  
  If you need a reason to feel like you made a wise investment with your PS3 past the Blu-Ray player this game surly delivers the goods and makes it a justifiable purchase with a great hint of the awesome things to come that the PS3 is going to deliver. Don't even fret about it. Click the buy button now and you will be glad you did once you pop in the game upon arrival at your door step.
  
  
• Life begins now...
  By A2ODSYGGS9WFSA on 2007-09-30
  You have'nt lived...There I said it. You have'nt lived until you have played nay experienced (is the better word) heavenly sword. You know it looks awesome but that is not my major point. The game play is incredible. Team ninja puts you in the game. You just don't play nariko you are nariko. It is very interactive with destructible environments, weapon throwing, as well as BODY THROWING!!! The game is beyond the realm of fun, beyond the realm of uncanny, its truly in every since of the word amazing. AND DON'T GET ME STARTED ON THE VOICE ACTING, AND ACTING IN GENERAL. MY GOD IT IS INCREDIBLE! Heavenly sword overall is immersing it really draws you into the world, and such lush, real, and detailed environments. Man look out XBOX fanboys you are missing out, this is one for the ages. Rock on Team Ninja can't wait for number 2!!!!
  
  
• Awesome fun
  By A3PBRLKFVKOUCN on 2007-09-12
  BUY IT AND PLAY!
  
  If you know the action genre like God of War, Devil May Cry, Ninja Gaiden then you know the basics. You control one girl (Nariko) who must pick up her sword and take down the bad guys. It's like playing a cinematic movie with really entertaining voice actors taking their roles quite seriously.
  
  Interestingly, you also can play as her little sister (Kai) who has a very different gameplay mechanic.
  
  Pros: Its real fun to play and the story, visuals, acting are all very high quality. I love this game. I can't get over how beautiful the game looks and plays.
  
  Cons: Its not bad framerate but its also not super smooth... It certainly doesn't detract from the fun. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. This is the only negative in my book.
  
  
  
  
• WAY TOO MUCH EMPHASIS ON THE SIXASIS CONTROLLER!
  By A3LW6FZ12WUX2A on 2007-09-14
  Heavenly Sword,for me,was a HUGE disapointment.First,I will state that good,as I believe this game could have been amazing;maybe even perfect.
  
  1.)Gorgeous graphics,beautiful cinematics and terrific voicework.
  
  2.)Outstanding epic battles very similar to Dynasty Warriors or more recently Genji for PS3.Terrific battle/action cinemas tied with button choreography.Example:rapidly push X to run across the falling rope,or push analog stick in the directions show to to jump up the cliff.
  
  Now the severely unfortunate which lead to a HUGE letdown.
  
  1.)Many times you are switched to Kai,an assasin,and you must "guide" the arrows into your targets via the sixaxis controller.This may sound cool, but to be perfectly frank,the controller just doesn't work very good.
  
  There will be plenty of times where the arrow JUST misses the target.You also have to go through this with the cannonball/catapult misson.These missions also have the teeth grinding torture of adding a time limit and if you cannot complete the goal of the misson before the time runs out, or Shen gets killed etc. you get the dreaded instant GAME OVER screen.
  
  To me,that's a huge step backwards in video games to just add all-or-nothing type elements to a game.
  
  It's extremely annoying and you will become enraged with frustraion.The back of the case for this game never said that you would have to complete "aim at the target sniper" missions like this.Had I known,I never would have paid as much money as I did for this.
  
  2.)It feels as though the game developers FORCED the sixaxis controller into the game rather than just letting it come natural,or give the option of whether you want to use it or not.Personally,I think it would have been alot easier and less aggrivating if you just guided the projectile using the analog stick rather than the sixaxis motion.
  
  Many times the extremely cool battles just stop so you have to solve the "puzzle" by flinging a shield at a switch.Just think how this affects the game:" Yeah,I love fighting in this game and killing all these warriors!.... oh.... it's time to hit the switch and open the door.
  
  3.)There are certain attack styles that can cancel out the attacks of your foes;I think speed against power and vice versa.Well, it's hard to know when to switch back and forth when the attacks are coming at you a mile a minute.Oh sure,the attacks are surrounded by a different color aura,but it still doesn't help when you haven't even got your finger on the alternate attack button yet... yes,it's that fast
  
  Also there are many times when all the enemies will do is BLOCK!You can attack them ten thousand times...and still...they JUST BLOCK! HOW ANNOYING!
  
  4.)The total gameplay is only around 6-8 hours;not at all worth the price that I paid.I think that when games are being sold for as much money as they are,there should be a requirement for the gameplay to last AT LEAST 20 hours.I don't care how beautiful the graphics are.Beautiful graphics alone does not make a great game;in fact,it doesn't even make a good game.
  
  There are alot of great ps1 and ps2 games out there that can average 40 to 60 hours of gameplay.They just don't make 'em like they used to.I guess it's just the new generation that has to have the "oooooooo" and "ahhhhh" effects of eye candy to replace other important elements.
  
  I am going to contact Sony and demand a refund.First of all because they mislead the consumers on what type of game this is,and second because the game was a rushed product with such a short value of gameplay.
  
  I've only played my copy once,and I don't want it in my collection.If there are enough fanboys out there to keep this game and praise it because of how Nariko looks (which is a pretty lame excuse),then they can do so.But I'm not going to support a below average product at an above average price.
  
  
• Look past the short wrapper to a PS3 Crown Jewel!
  By A3KIN8TIIVGOP0 on 2007-10-20
  Yes, this game is shorter than most, but don't let that stop you from buying this game and supporting the developer Ninja Theory; they have done a great job at giving us a truly next generation game that demonstrates the power of the PS3.
  
  Heavenly Sword is innovative in several ways, from the game interface (basic menu), to the mini animated Super Style moves and the combat system; to the depth that the gamer will be pulled into the story. Playing through I got the feel that things had now changed and after this game, others that follow will have to do more. I played through in 720p and the graphics are awesome, everywhere and all the time. It is amazing how many enemies can be on screen at one time and it all works so well, rocks! The Super Style move animation blends in so well with the rest of the combat flow, it was really done well. The sixaxis use for arrows was well done too.
  
  The story of Nariko, her friend Kai, and Clan will pull you in and keep you wanting more until the very end. I have played no other game that has anything like the way this game delivers the story with you.
  
  I beat the game, but it took me more like 9 to 10 hours. I've gone back now to any previous spot I like, a nice feature of the game to work on unlocking more glyphs for (more of ) the tons of extra content that gets unlocked as you play through the game. There is replay value here, and a hell mode once beaten.
  
  Overall, I'm glad I bought this game, and highly recommend it be purchased.
  
  
• A memorable gaming experience
  By A3D2VR8N2PYE4M on 2008-01-02
  Heavenly Sword is truly an amazing and entertaining experience. My brother and I rented this game and played thorough it in 2 nights. It probably took us about 8-10 hours to get through since some of the bosses were a little tricky. What stood out to me the most about this game was its production value. I have never seen acting so good in a game before, and not just the voice overs. You really began to love the heroes in the game and truly hate the villains, one in particular. Much of this level of quality was due to Andy Serkis (Lord of the Rings' Gollum, King Kong) who headed up the motion capture and voice recording as well as playing the part of the main antagonist in the game, King Bohan.
  
  Everything was done so well down to the smallest detail, the level of quality was outstanding. The game looked great in game and during the cut seans. There were many moments where we had to stop playing and just take in the beautiful landscape. This is definitely a game to show off your PS3 system, I like the rope running sequence myself.
  
  The game play was also top notch. It focuses mostly on melee combat and shooting. There is no real platforming to speak of. Switching between different fighting styles (speed, ranged, and strong) and performing counters was innovative and a lot of fun. As were the shooting sequences using the sixaxis to guide arrows and cannon balls were fun as well and a great use of the technology. Overall the controls were tight and worked very well for this type of game.
  
  I would have to say that Heavenly Sword is up there with my most memorable gaming experiences and is truly an amazing game. If you own a PS3 you owe it to your self to buy or at least rent this game. You won't be sorry.
  
  
• The most amazing cinematic experience you can play
  By A3NI09VS6I5EJS on 2007-09-18
  Without a doubt this is the best next generation game thus far. I would go as far as to say its the first game I've played that really makes me see a break between glorified PS2 games like Gears of War or resistance and the new generation of cinematic quality games. The score, the art direction, the acting, the setting...everything is top notch on par with a AAA quality movie production like Transformers or 300. It is very clear that an immense ammount of effort and care was put into making this amazing game.
  
  Some will complain that the base game is between 7 and 10 hours. This is true but really, most 20+ hour games (such as Metroid Prime 3) are less then 4-5 hours of truely interesting gameplay such as intense fire fights or bosses. Most of the 20+ hours is spent walking around, back tracking and looking for small pick ups to give you 5 more missles or a few new unlockables. For the entire 7+ hours Heavenly sword goes it is amazing start to finish. There is no real break in the action when you're playing and the CG cinematics are the most amazing in any game to date. Theres small scale engagements with powerful foes, dramatic boss battles that are legitimately challenging (especially on the unlockable "hell" level of difficulty), huge 1 hero vs 800 enemies melees and even sniper missions with a 2nd dramaticly different character. There are also performance ratings between 1 and 3 "glyphs" for each of the dozens of scenes that make up the levels and these glyphs unlock new combos, content and other things to give an incentive to play scenes over to do better adding greatly to the replay value (not to mention the harder "hell" level).
  
  I cannot recomend this game highly enough and please don't believe all those who complain about the length or other small aspects. This game is the best 6-8 hours in next gen gaming and the first game to really take advantage of the PS3. Beyond the first 8 hours theres another 20 there to get unlockables, master the controls and beat it on a harder difficulty. If you do the math take the 3 best movies from last year at 20 dollars each and this game costs the same and is more fun to boot since you're actually playing the best fantasy movie ever made. Its what those (also good) lord of the rings action games for the PS2 should have been.
  
  
• It doesn't get any better than this on ANY system!
  By A2YLPY962LS3US on 2007-09-28
  First, let me address the complaints you'll see in a couple of the other reviews.
  
  "It's just a hack and slash game!"
  Yes, it is possible to hack and slash your way through most of the game. Not until the later bosses do you actually have to master blocks, reversals, counter-attacks, etc. BUT, all of these elements ARE part of the game. If you CHOOSE to simply hack and slash through it...well, it's just that. Your choice. It actually has a very in-depth combat system and combo system. You definitely won't unlock all of the items by simply hacking and slashing, and you won't have as much fun. You'll miss all the great reversal animation and special moves. Hacking and slashing through this game would be like going to a fine restaurant, ordering the steak, then eating it with your bare hands and wiping your hands on your shirt. Yes, you COULD do it, but would you?
  
  "The aftertouch is flawed. The sixaxis is forced on you."
  Yes, the missions where you use the sixaxis motion sensing take some getting used to. But, they are by no means impossible. Once you get the hang of it, it's quite fun. It took me a while, but by midway through the game, I was playing a crossbow mission and got 5 headshots in a row. And for those of you that can't quite get the hang of it, you can turn it off, and just use the analog stick.
  
  "It's too hard to switch styles back and forth while so many people are attacking you at once!"
  Okay, at this point, you're just whining. You use one button to switch between speed and power stances, you either hold it or you don't. You're actually complaining because the game has some degree of difficulty?
  
  "Sometimes the enemies just constantly block."
  True. It happens. That's why certain combos are block-breakers. They will land even if the enemy is always blocking. This is one of the rewards of not simply hacking and slashing your way through the game.
  
  "The game is too short!"
  Yes, if you're a hardcore gamer, you can probably finish this game in 6-8 hours. Most people aren't hardcore gamers. Most people sit down and play for an hour here and an hour there. Honestly, I'd rather have a fantastic game (which this IS) that gives me 6 hours of game play over a mediocre game that gives me 20. And it's not like you'll play this game for 6 hours and toss it. You can quickly hack and slash through in 6 hours. Or you can play it, enjoy it, revel in it. Learn the combo system. Learn the counter-attacks. Learn the special moves. Have some FUN with it. And the game still has replay value. I finished it a few days ago, but I enjoyed it so much, I'm playing through again on normal mode to try to collect all the items (which is much harder than I thought). And after that, there's still the HELL mode that was unlocked when I beat it.
  
  And I didn't even get started on how great this game is. Incredible graphics. A story that completely grabs you. Fantastic voice acting and character development. It really is like an interactive movie. You'd be doing yourself a disservice to miss this game.
  
  
• Hot Chick + Big Sword = Big Letdown
  By A2W7ZNYNSPS619 on 2008-01-05
  I bought this review after reading some reviews and watching commercials and videos of the game. The cut scenes look really good with the exception that there is no blood. Not trying to be gory...but when someone gets shot with an arrow and they zoom in to that character...the absence of blood makes the whole thing look incomplete. That being said...the main bad guy (King Bohan) is the most impressive villain I've seen in any game. His dialogue, his demeanor and gestures...couldn't be better. That is my favorite part of the game.
  
  The game is really short and the action is basically mashing the square and triangle buttons hoping that you nailed a combo. There are way to many combos to memorize...and by the time you get the hang of it...the game is over...Probably close to 35 if not more combos.
  
  The sixaxis controller part was frustrating at first...but once I got the hang of it...it was actually one of the more enjoyable parts of the game.
  
  Wait for it to be in the bargain bin before buying it...or rent it for a couple of days...that should be enough time to play through it twice.
  
  
• Heavenly Sword is a blessing after the bad taste of Lair
  By A3UZ4J9ND31Y8J on 2007-09-13
  I just bought Heavenly Sword today and have played about a 1/3 of the way through the game. It is a masterpiece. I love it. I still had a bad taste in my mouth from Lair, but have completely forgotten it since getting Heavenly Sword.
  
  Pros:
  Best CG cutscenes to ever exist in a video game. Period.
  Great and unique combat
  Never a boring moment (atmosphere and even gameplay changes constantly)
  Great Story
  Wonderful Graphics
  Nariko is a hottie....j/k
  
  Cons:
  Too short
  Can't Jump
  Wish it had "bigger" bosses
  
  Really, there isn't much to say about this game other than it's great. I would say Heavenly Sword is the best game on the ps3 yet and maybe the first AAA game (possibly Warhawk also)...
  9.25/10.0
  
  
• Nice to watch and fun to play
  By A18F5YGS0XB6IB on 2007-09-27
  Heavenly Sword is graphically beautiful, and a lot of fun to play. Once you learn the trick of controlling the arrows and cannon balls you sometimes use (keep holding down the fire button and move the whole controller up and down, sideways, etc.), it becomes a real pleasure to play. The acting during the cut scenes is outstanding, particularly the lead characters. The combined cut scenes actually make a nice short movie. Also, the game is not, in the regular mode, impossibly hard to play, so even normal people (non-games playing fanatics) can enjoy it all the way through. It's not as long as most games, but I think it has a lot of replayability, and can be replayed in difficult mode once you've finished it in regular mode. Recommended.
  
  
• PS3 MUST HAVE
  By A1AUV50Z8RWF6X on 2007-09-30
  Since i first saw the preview videos and followed the HS story trough the weekly PSN videos, i knew i had to play this game.
  
  I wasnt wrong, game is s amazing i have nothing else to say that is a movie turned to a game.
  
  Simple but heart robbing story, perfectly designed and developed characters from Kai, Nariko, even Bohan all dialogues and face emotions are exquisite and heart pounding.
  
  I guess the game is short becouse there is no need to force a 60+ hours that would have kill the movie lik escence. No forced simple bad guys to kill on numerous never ending sites, no overwhelming 20+ bosses everything is well paced and done
  
  SONY and Ninja Theory have a winner here!!!
  
  
• Never Before Seen Graphics !!
  By A3PI78LW7ENR1C on 2007-10-17
  I'm sure this is the best looking game ever made to date .. Graphics are so realistic you start getting confused weather it's a game or interactive movie ..
  
  Chapter's difficulty is fairly good .. not too easy and not too tough. nice blend for casual games ..
  
  People say it's too short, but for casual gamer like me .. it's just fine ..
  
  
• Heavenly Sword is worth Renting
  By A31QS5TDBQCNA9 on 2007-12-06
  I bought Heavenly Sword the day it came out. While at the time, it was one of the best games graphically for PS3, it definately did not live up to my expectations.
  
  The gameplay is repetitive and SHORT. The movies were pretty long and it did seem like we were watching a movie intercut with some short gameplay. The enemies were easy enough to pick up with a couple favorite combos, and the bosses were easy once you figured out the pattern to their attacks. All in all, if your a good gamer or even an average gamer, this game will last you all of one sitting, plus a few hours for the last boss, because he is irratatingly hard, unlike how the game was up until that point.
  
  I'm not saying that the game wasn't impressive, as it had expansive environments. It just seemed like I was seeing the same things over and over again. The backgrounds were nice, but it wasn't like you got to go see them.
  
  All in all. I'm not sad that I own this game, but after beating it, I doubt I'll pick it up and play it again. Most of the game is watching the movie and once you've seen it, there really is no desire to keep playing.
  
  
• This is just the beginning!
  By A1V9XQ0TFUBC1H on 2007-09-18
  "Heavenly Sword" is the harbinger of greatness for PS3. It's the first game to set off the wave of hot titles that all of us Playstation owners are waiting for. If you love God of War, you will love this game. If you love Ninja Gaiden Sigma, you will love this game. If you love Halo...... you are probaly one of the few people nitpicking and complaining about this astonishing title! Get off the hater bus, kids! Now I hear complaints about the length of the game, the Six-Axis is too hard to control when using "Aftertouch"......BOOOO all of you cry-baby, sissies! Go and play with your Wii's!! You are not hardcore gamers!!! Now all of you naysayers hear me when I say this game is one of the best games out right now. It has the GREAT story, TIGHT controls and SOLID execution. Essential elements for any great game. The graphics are phenomenal and the voice acting is superb, up there with "God of War". Length of the game should be a non-issue, because it's packed with quality. I mean I threw a dead body and aftertouched it into an advancing squad of heavy axe warriors! Maybe it's just me but I really enjoyed that! Ninja Theory did an amazing job here, people. Let us all thank them for all of the hard work that was put into it and praise this great creation of their's.
  
  I'm now at the end of the game but I have not finished it. So I do not know if it is set up for a sequel (probably) but if it is, the next one will be a supreme work of art. Get ready for the next wave!
  
  
• Definitely a Collectors item!
  By A2E1PELQTKI25R on 2007-09-20
  There are games that you just want to rent to play and return and then there are games that are of such quality you must own it for your collection, Heavenly Sword is definitely a collector's item.
  
  Every single Review out there you can get your hands on will have the words "Beautiful", "high Production Values", "Like a summer blockbuster movie" etc.. etc.. This game is truly a masterpiece in its own regard.
  
  The acting of the Raven King done by Andy Sirkis (of Golem, King Kong) is excellent as well as the facial movements are so life like its uncanny.
  When developers of Oblivion said we are far away from technology where ingame character lips can be mimicked with the voice, THEY WERE WRONG! I have never seen a game mimic voice and lip movement so perfectly as in Heavenly Sword!
  
  There has been many criticism that the gameplay 6-8 hours is too short.
  After playing the game I have to tell you completing each level 100% finding all the hidden vases, (Over 130 of them) and playing the game with sixaxis aftertouch on provided endless hours of enjoyment I would have to say over 20 hours of game play in all!
  
  Sixaxis:
  Game critics have cited Heavenly Sword as a game that implemented Sixaxis perfectly. Steering Kai's arrow across the huge Map to snipe the enemy in the head is exhilarating and addictivly fun.
  
  Overall this game deserves a perfect 5 out of 5 for excellent movie like production values, beautiful graphics, compelling story, excellent gameplay, and inovative use of sixaxis.
  
  
• Absolute HEAVEN!
  By A32M6P0MLXSSVO on 2007-09-25
  I have been keeping my eye on this game every since I saw a review of it on the G4 Channel for this year's (2007) E3 conference. Even before then ... I think I may have saw a hint of it in the 2006 E3 (televised on G4). I was totally taken with the graphics (first of all). Second, it reminded me of a female version of God of War. I'm all for women kicking major butt. ;O))
  
  There are times when the game can be rather frustrating (i.e., hitting targets at JUST the right spot) to get to the next stage of the game. But these things just take time and ingenuity.
  
  I am totally blown away by this game. There is a bit of button mashing, but ... I don't mind. I totally recommend this game. I wish I could give a more detailed review, but ... I'm just a gamer. I'd recommend this game to ANYONE (except maybe a young child).
  
  
• Simply the best
  By AQWYV04X1E5CA on 2007-09-29
  "Ask youself whether the dream of heaven and greatness should be waiting for us in our graves--or whether it should be ours here and now and on this earth."
  
  This game, if one can call is that, is simply one of if not the greatest ever made. If you own a PS3, have an hdtv, and an accompanying audio setup, you owe it to yourself to be able to treat yourself to this wonderful masterpiece.
  
  It is an Audio/Visual tour de-force with a great cinematic feel all throughout the course of the game.. I can go on and rave about this game non-stop but what for..?
  
  Some say the greatest drawback of the game is that it's too short.. that only means the person has never heard of the #1 golden rule of entertainment: Always Leave Them Wanting More :)
  
  in the end, I will remember this experience more as a great movie I was part of rather than a mere video game
  
  
  
• Great Game, short like ICO or God of War, but Better Replay Value
  By A1B124AVX0QH2B on 2007-09-12
  Excellent Graphics and a wonderful story, I dont think I have played a game through all the way and enjoyed the ride that much in a long time. If you are into adventure games, and like following the storylines to games, then this is a must have.
  
  
• Heavenly Game...
  By AEAKQ4MYXMN05 on 2007-09-17
  Guiding the arrows & cannon balls with the motion sensitive controller sections in the game are so much fun, they could be a game in themselves. I wouldn't even think of using the joystick for these sections because the motion control is the best part. I found myself replaying the arrow sections repeatedly, always getting a laugh out of the different animations that the bud guys make depending on where you shoot them. Shoot one in the butt and you'll see what I mean.
  
  The fighting sections of the game are excellent also, with the 3 stances giving a variety of ways to deal with your opponents & situation. Countering attacks (color of attack vs. stance) and getting a cool cutscene of Nariko dealing out some pain was always welcome. It took a little while to get a handle on the combo attacks, but they are very worthwhile and towards the end of the game you better have a few block breaker combos memorized or you're really in for it. I was getting frustrated at the end until I got the block breakers down and used the counter to reflect back attacks. Do yourself a favor and master these early.
  
  What else can you say about the other aspects of the game that hasn't already been said a hundred times? The graphics are the best I've seen in any game so far. The story is great, and the acting/motion capture work really delivers. The art design is fantastic, with the whole feel of the game coming together beautifully.
  
  All in all, it's the most FUN I've had playing a game in quite a while, and it's truly a "next-gen" experience.
  
  
  
• This was worth the wait!
  By ADREHV0A68PJA on 2007-09-20
  So i have owned my PS3 for 5 months now and have been playing mostly PS2 games because of all the reviews i have read on the other PS3 games released so far. All i can say is.......WOW! Finally a game for the PS3 has come along and proved to me what this system is capable of gaming wise.
  
  I just got my copy of this game a day ago, and i havent beat it yet, so i cant give a complete breakdown on gameplay or anything. But what i can breakdown is this, this game looks amazing! The controls are spot on, and if anyone reading this has played God of War 1 or 2, this games controls are much like those two. As a matter of fact, this game reminds me of GoW quite a bit as far as combat goes.
  
  The sixaxis motion sensitive parts of the game took me about 15 mins to figure out. It was difficult at first getting those arrows and cannon balls to move in the direction i wanted. The parts of the game where this is introduced happen pretty early in the game, so its not something thrown at you half way through to try and figure out on top of learning all the stances and colored attacks. I love being able to replay any of the mission you have played so far.
  
  I am very excited about this game and i cant wait to finish it, i am looking forward to all the new releases coming out soon for the PS3 and i know those games are gonna rock to. Dont drop the ball on this game, buy it soon and start playing one of the best Nex Gen games out there.
  
  
• heavenly sword
  By A1VHS1XW3MBIGH on 2007-09-20
  this game has great graphics, and a good story line behind it. it is very challengingly in some levels but i have enjoyed playing it. it took a long time to be released but it was well worth it.
  
  
• Simply amazing
  By A28JK2BSTHQE80 on 2007-09-20
  I am so pleased that the PS3 finally has some originals coming out and this is no doubt one of the best. The graphics are magnificent and the voice acting is- well- the best I've ever seen. I found myself, after completing the game, just watching the cut scenes. The characters really come alive and show alot of emotion a realism, a trait that is lacking in many other games. Andy Serkis does the voice and motion capturing for king Bohan, needles to say he is my favorite character in the game.
  The only draw back is the length of the game. i bought it and then finished it the next day. There are only about 6 1/2 hours of gameplay but those six hours are the best I've spent on a game in a long while. The creators of the game have put out a fine product and I recoment to anyone with a PS3 to buy, or depending on your financial situation, rent this game. My concluding thought, "quality over quantity"
  
  

• The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion
• The Darkness
• Intec PlayStation 3 Controller Cradles
• PlayStation 3 Wireless Sixaxis Controller
• Playstation 3 ChillStream Controller

• Assassin's Creed
• Uncharted: Drake's Fortune
• PlayStation 3 Wireless Sixaxis Controller
• Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction
• Sony PlayStation 3 Blu-ray Disc Remote