Hands-onSpace Channel 5 Part 2

United Game Artists' latest title for the PlayStation 2, Space Channel 5 Part 2, was released in Japan. The first thing you'll notice about the graphics is that almost everything is rendered in 3D polygon as opposed to the CG movies used in the previous game, giving the game a much crisper look. The music and gameplay are quite similar to the original game's, but a few changes have been made. For example, when you have to mimic the enemies' moves, sometimes you'll have to hold down the corresponding button and then press it again. Other than that, most of the action in the game occurs as if you're watching a music video.

Interestingly, you can use Ascii's Trans Vibrator device, which was originally sold with Sega's shooter, Rez, since the device vibrates in sync with the music. Also, if you have saved data from UGA's previous games--like Space Channel 5 or Rez--on your memory card, it will add new costumes to the changing room mode, in which you can change Ulala's clothes. Space Channel 5 Part 2 is currently available on the PS2 and DC. We'll have more on the game in coming weeks.