Afro Samurai may not be as great as it would like to be, but it's still a fun game the oozes style...
The story, to those who haven't seen the series, may seem convoluted, but for those who have, the game is just as action-packed and emotional as the series, with worthy story elements tacked on that further explore the crazy Afro Samurai mythos. The game follows Afro, and his sidekick Ninja Ninja as the venture to find Justice, the man who killed Afro's father, and holds the Number One Headband, which essentially gives him the power of a god (or does it?)
The main hack and slash system in Afro Samurai is thoroughly entertaining, and takes a surprisingly long time to grow old. The basics play like any other action adventure game, you have a light attack, a heavy attack, a block, and a kick. But where Afro Samurai outshines other games is with the focus system, where you can slow down time and take a potentially fatal slice at your enemy. But, unfortunately, that's pretty much it, there are a couple of mediocre platforming sequences and some fun boss fights, but Afro Samurai never changes up the formula as much as it should.
The graphics are simply awesome. The game had a hand-drawn, cel-shaded aesthetic that make for a real visual treat. Some may complain about the camera, but I didn't find it to be a huge problem.
The sound department is easily the game's best quality. The game features great sound design, and stellar voice acting from the likes of Samuel L. Jackson, and Ron Perlman. But the true star is the RZA, who brings a positively bumpin' soundtrack to the game. The songs brilliantly mix hip-hop and Asian instrumentation which makes for some great fight music.
The game isn't too long, only about 8-10 hours, and there's not much replay value. For the true collector there are some hidden mementos throughout each level, and for those who wish to punish themselves, there's a harder difficulty to unlock, but that's it.
Afro Samurai is a fun game while it lasts. There are moments where you'll be playing, and the game will feel like a AAA title, but there are moments where you'll be frustrated by some of the design flaws. But, the sense of style, and excellent sound department make Afro Samurai just edge out of being a mediocre game to a game worth recommending.