Game Jam 2Gungrave impressions

TOKYO - Gungrave for the PlayStation 2 was at the Game Jam 2 event in playable form. The gun-shooting action adventure game is one of Sega's and Red Entertainment's joint projects. The concept and character design is being handled by Naito Yasuhiro, who is well-known for his work in the Japanese anime Trigun Maximum. Mech designs are being created by Fujishima Kosuke, known for his work in Oh! My Goddess.

The playable version at the event allowed us to try the first stage in the game. The in-game graphics are cel-shaded, while the cut scenes are traditionally animated. The controls and button layout straight out of a basic gun-shooting action game, for the most part. The game uses a chain combo system as well--when you shoot and damage enemies in succession, a gauge on the upper left will charge. When it is completely filled, you will be able to use special attacks. You can also stock more than one of these so it is quite helpful in certain situations such as when you're battling a level boss.

The controls in the game were a little problematic. The L1 shoulder button is used for targeting, but after defeating a target, it doesn't automatically choose another unless you press the button again. In addition, the camera angles sometimes can't keep up with the action, particularly when you execute a side jump-shooting action similar to the one found in Max Payne. Hopefully these issues will be resolved before its release.

Gungrave for the PlayStation 2 is scheduled for a July release in Japan.