Death Jnr. is a 3-D platformer, based upon an entirely original property that's been in development for the PSP since before the system even had a physical form. Originally scheduled for the machine's launch, the title has obviously suffered delays. Hopefully, they will result in a top notch game.
The basic premise behind the game is that you play as Death Jnr. - the son of Death. Other than his unique heritage and his large scythe, Death Jnr. - the first skeletal videogame protaganist we can recall since Manny Calavera - is just like your average kid. He goes to school and has his own little group of friends. One day on a school trip to the museum, one of Death Jnr’s friends, Pandora, attempts to open a box that she shouldn’t. Ahem. After failing to do so, Death Jnr. steps in to help, only to have an evil force unleashed that sucks up the souls of his friends, and so begins your adventure into the demented world of Death Jnr.
Purple Spiky Gorillas, comin at ya!
While it may seem that the game is aimed at the younger audience, it couldn’t be further from the truth. Death Jnr. is set to bring a new form of morbid humour to the table. Just one look at some of the supporting characters and you’ll see why. The game's visuals are in full free-flowing 3-D with a hint of cel-shading. The artistic style resembles a bit of a mix between The Nightmare Before Christmas and Beetlejuice, and PALGN's of the opinion that there are certain people whose tastes will be satisfied more than others.
Death Jnr., as mentioned, is a 3-D platformer. In keeping with the theme of staying away from the norm, Death Jnr’s main way of getting around will be by using his scythe. Uses include latching onto hanging branches and flinging yourselves off them, and using the scythe like a helicopter blade. It should make for some interesting moments. However, it is not yet known whether you will gain more abilities as you go or fixed abilities from the beginning.
A bit of ectoplasm would'nt be out of place here
Naturally, rescuing souls is not an easy activity. Apart from the obstacles, there are bound to be many enemies along the way. And of course the scythe will be your primary form of defence (or attack). However, Death will receive a wide arsenal of firearms to aid him on his adventure, everything from handguns to shotguns and explosives. Since you’ll have to deal with both ground-based and winged enemies, you’re going to need all the firepower you can get.
The idea so far is good but there are a few areas of concern. There have been some rumblings about control inconsistencies and a problematic camera. Since the PSP lacks a 2nd analog nub, controlling the camera will obviously be a touchy issue. Another concern is whether this game will suit the portable format.
Slice and Dice!
Death Jnr. is scheduled for a mid-August release abroad with a PAL release currently scheduled for late October. Given the time in development and Konami’s experience with platformers, we have confidence that these issues can be somewhat resolved before the actual launch.
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