Meanwhile

Not so much a game as a series of jokes and observations about the genre. There are a few "gamey" elements, such as the occasional boss battle, and the card mini-game, but even those are quite shallow and require very little thought or skill. Even so, there are times when you have to grind pointless trash fights to get all of the achievements; this is made all the more tiresome because for the most part there is absolutely no chance of failure unless you are just really, really incompetent. On top of all that, it's pretty darned short (which in retrospect may be a blessing). You can tell the creators put some thought and effort into it sadly, it turns out they are clearly game FANS, not game designers. I bought this while it was on sale for 10 percent off, and I still feel like I paid way too much for it.

[SPOILER ALERT: This review contains spoilers.]

This is a great implementation of the card game, but there are a few irritating problems that keep me from giving it a 10. One is the sideboard. You are allowed to swap unlocked cards in and out of your sideboard, but not the cards of the basic deck. This defeats the whole purpose of a sideboard! Why did they even waste their time programming such a thing? The unlockable cards are the best cards in your deck, so apart from color-specific effects, you'll never want to swap them out. My other problem is that you cannot tap your own lands, ever, for any reason. The computer always chooses for you, making its best guess based on what spells remain in your hand. And yes, it is usually right. But those few times when it's wrong are infuriating! I can understand them automating this part of the game in general, but there should at least be an option to tap your land manually. But all in all, it's a great way to enjoy the game without breaking the bank. Two-headed giant is especially fun -- it's great for teaming up with a newbie to teach them how to play.

Without question, my favorite PS3 title ever. All turn-based tactical RPGs should look to this game as the next-gen model. In fact, as I'm writing this review two years after the game's release, I wonder why I have yet to see a single copycat. The only way I could love this game more would be if they were to take the same combat system and use it in a fantasy setting. But it's not just the combat I love -- the characters are realistic and lovable (or hate-able), and the story is absolutely brilliant. There's a song in the middle that makes me bawl my eyes out every time. Everyone should play this game!

The character customization is weak and nearly irrelevant to the gameplay. The story is one dull clichà after another, with religious overtones that are downright creepy. And to top it all off, this game has easily the stupidest final battle and worst ending of any RPG I've ever played in my life -- and that's a lot of RPGs. Even if you love the original VH, this download is not worth your time, let alone your money.