Video Game Reviews by Jeb Haught

DEVELOPER: Sony

PUBLISHER: Sony

SYSTEM: Sony PlayStation 3

PRICE: $59.99

ESRB RATING: Teen

REVIEW RATING: 4.0 stars (out of 5)

I didn't expect to become addicted to the multiplayer game, "Warhawk," when it was released, but unexpected surprises help maintain my interested in gaming. "Warhawk" wasn't a AAA title, and the infantry combat was lacking, but the ability to fight on foot, in land vehicles and in futuristic air-birds (Hawks) was irresistible! Now Sony has released "Starhawk" upon the gaming masses, and it's even more enjoyable than it's predecessor.

Unlike the former game, "Starhawk" also offers a single-player mode, but it's lackluster at best. Instead of offering an engaging storyline coupled with exciting game play, the single-player campaign is little more than practice for online multiplayer. Sadly, the only reason anyone will play this mode is to avoid becoming easy prey for seasoned players.

Online multiplayer is where the real enjoyment lies. Players can engage each other in vastly improved third-person infantry combat as well as using mighty tanks and nimble flying Hawks. On top of that, hoverbikes and jetpacks have been added, and giant mechs that transform into flying Hawks make a distinct impression on the battlefield.

What really sets this title apart is the new Build & Battle system that lets players construct everything from turrets to buildings to new vehicles. Do you want to block off an area? Simply construct a wall nearly anywhere you choose. Does your team lack vehicles? Then build a vehicle-spawning building and take the fight to the enemy!

Lone-wolf players will quickly realize that teamwork is essential in order to stand a chance of winning or even having fun. Sure, it's cool to hop into a towering mech, but that won't help much if the enemy focuses fire on your mighty metal beast and blows it away! Believe me, the game becomes much more enjoyable if you coordinate with teammates and support each other.

By combining real-time strategy combat with a third-person shooter, "Starhawk" creates an unforgettable multiplayer experience.

'Dragon's Dogma'

DEVELOPER: Capcom

PUBLISHER: Capcom

SYSTEM: Microsoft Xbox 360 (PS3)

PRICE: $59.99

ESRB RATING: Mature

REVIEW RATING: 3.5 stars (out of 5)

Ever since "The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim" elevated dragon hunting into a virtual art form, most RPGs now contain the scaly creatures in one form or another.

Capcom's latest title, "Dragon's Dogma," not only borrows liberally from other games but also makes dragons integral to the tale. Thankfully, this hardcore RPG also offers some intriguing originality and doesn't hold the player's hand throughout their adventure!

Players take on the role of a hero as they begin what seems like an ordinary day in the fishing town of Cassardis. Suddenly, a giant dragon accompanied by numerous harpies appears in the sky, and they all start attacking the village. The hero is easily vanquished when he attempts to save the day, but somehow he survives having his heart removed by the dragon.

As a result, the heartless hero becomes known as The Arisen, and now they must stop the terrible threat! One of the perks of the new title is having access to pawns, which are computer-controlled party members. Up to three pawns can accompany The Arisen, and players can fully customize one of them as if it were their main character.

One uniquely awesome feature is the ability to send pawns off to join other real players in their adventure, and they return with cool gifts and knowledge. I love how they offer helpful advice on fighting tough bosses, but they can be very repetitive. It's also possible, and advisable, to recruit other player's pawns to help you out during your own adventure.

The action-oriented combat in this game is intuitive and unpredictable. I always have to be aware of unexpected enemies entering battle and changing the course of combat. In addition, fighting gigantic bosses is very fun and challenging, especially when using the cool grab mechanic!

Anyone who can stomach the horrible music, lackluster storyline and occasional graphical glitches in "Dragon's Dogma" will be rewarded with hours of fun.

REVIEW SCORING SYSTEM

5 stars = Must Have

4 stars = Very Good

3 stars = Above Average

2 stars = Bargain Bin

1 star = Don't Bother

RATINGS KEY

Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB)

E: Everyone

E10-plus: (Everyone 10 and older)

T: Teen (13 and older)

M: Mature (17 and older)

To find out more about Jeb Haught and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

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