Hellboy The Science of Evil PSP Review

Hellboy: The Science of Evil

PSP Review
Developer: Krome Studios
Publisher: Konami
Released: June 24, 2008

The Hellboy franchise has done pretty well for itself in terms of making its way to the big screen. Unfortunately, the franchise seems to be having trouble translating to a good video game, as evident with this release here.

The PSP version of Hellboy: The Science of Evil is a bit different than what was presented to us on the console version of the franchise.

In the PSP game, you get an original storyline which is pretty similar in essence to the new movie, while still having its own identity. Reportedly, Mike Mignola and Guillermo del Toro helped contribute to the development of the game. Apparently they did not pay much attention though.

The highlight of the game has to do with the actual engine it runs on, as it is one very nice looking game. From the minute you see it in motion, you see that the game has a foundation to be truly something which can achieve a great deal of success.

Hellboy: The Science of Evil has no issues in regards to running at a constant framerate, looking smooth, etc. This seemed to be accomplished though due to the basic fact and idea that there is not much here in terms of detail.

Everything comes across as pretty clunky and bland from the animations, to the level-design, draw-distance, etc.

Things do not pick up once you get to the gameplay aspects of everything though, as you have very limited ability with what you can actually do around you. The developers put an effort in to try and create some sort of depth to the attacks beyond the light and heavy attacks.

In some instances, you will be able to pick up enemies and throw them inot one another, as well as using melee weapons, objects, etc. This is all complimented by extra bonuses from combos you pump out.

Once you throw some combos, enemies will drop Rage Runes, which will up a super-damage mode which runs for a limited time. Overall though, it really does just feel like a lackluster button mashing experience.

The game does feature some enjoyable boss battles, which will force you to figure out which is the best way to defeat the big bad boss. The biggest issue I have with these though is that you end up repeating the same things over and over until they are gone. You wait for them to try and hit you, dodge, run behind them, swing, and repeat.

The game tries to add some longevity by making you earn Spirit Shard rewards, which allow you to unlock things such as concept art, interviews, trailers, and more.

Going beyond the lackluster gameplay, the game never captures the true Hellboy feel. The dialogue is extremely poor, and the lack of any voiceover work is very disappointing. The cut-scenes lack any originality and flair with animation.

It may appear like I may be bashing the game too much, but it came across as such a frustrating experience. There are bits and pieces of fun here, with a few platforming elements which are fun, and some decent attacks.

All in all though this is not the Hellboy PSP fans want, and deserve. The game lacking polish in every aspect of its presentation, and unfortunately is one PSP fans should avoid.

Graphics: 5.0 The game does run smooth, but lacks any real detail.

Audio: 4.0 The lack of voiceover work is disappointing, and sound effects do nothing to add to the experience.

Gameplay: 4.5 The gameplay is rough, as it is a basically a very lackluster button-masher.

Replay Value: 3.5 There are some unlockable bits, but nothing to keep you coming back.

Final Score: 4.0

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Interested in picking up this release? Head over to Amazon at the link here Hellboy: The Science Of Evil