Developer(s): Omega Force
Publisher(s): Koei Tecmo
Producer(s): Hisashi Koinuma
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita, Xbox One
Release date(s):
JP: February 18, 2016
PAL: August 26, 2016
NA: August 30, 2016
Genre(s): Action, beat ’em up
Mode(s): Single-player multiplayer
Attack on Titan is an action game developed by Omega Force that retells key moments from the first season of the Attack on Titan anime, in addition to new scenarios involving the key characters. When the game was first announced, I wasn’t too sure about how it would capture the allure of Attack on Titan. But that perspective has changed. The game matches the anime in style and gameplay. The town areas are large making for open world exploration amidst the ensuing chaos. Just like the series, the situation is frantic as you rush around taking down the lumbering Titans before they gobble up everyone in sight so the only way to see the town is while you’re zipping around using your maneuvering gear. Speaking of the 3D maneuvering gear, which is the most important aspect of Attack on Titan, I honestly was surprised by how easily it handles. The control scheme is simplistic. With the press of a button, you hook your lines and take off. Direction can be changed using the left analog stick. This is very useful when tackling the Titans as they can be strategically taken out. With another simple button press, you lock and target different parts of the Titan such its limbs or the nape of the neck. Smaller Titans can be killed with a well-placed slice to the neck while larger targets have to be subdued before ending their rampage. But you must be mindful of your blades and gas reserves as they will run down during usage. Seeking out a follow cadet to replenish your weapons and gas quickly is imperative while you’re against the clock. There are also RPG elements in the game. Speaking with NPCs, you can upgrade your weapons and equipment with materials collected by defeating Titans and awarded to you after completing the mission, and side missions, such as protecting civilians, also add to the fray. You don’t have to go at it alone, however. Find a buddy and recruit them to fight beside you. As with other anime based games such as the “Naruto Ninja Storm” series, “Dragon Ball Z” and “One Piece”, music is just as important as making a worthy game. Attack on Titan features music from the anime along with the Japanese cast.
Attack on Titan also features online multiplayer where players take part in missions and help defend humanity from the Titans onslaught. The game features ten playable characters. Initially, only three can be selected. But as players progress through Attack (story) mode, more characters will unlock. Each character comes with different attributes and skills unique to them. For example, Mikasa Ackerman and Levi Ackerman can strike enemies multiple times while Eren Jaeger and Jean Kirschtein act as heavy hitters.
Overall, there are very few hiccups with this game. The animation is clean cut. The controls are easy to manage and feel fluid. And the action and sense of urgency really puts you in the chaotic world of Attack on Titan.
It’s a score of 4 out of 5 for Attack on Titan.
