Pummeling Robots on the go, and in 3D? Heck Yes!
Portable versions of multi-platform games, especially on the DS, were always games completely seperate from the console counterparts. Most of the Spider-Man DS games, for example, were 2d sidescrollers with polygon graphics and usually was different when it came to story as well. With the example this game sets, however, that might be changing very very soon.
Spider-Man Edge of Time on the 3DS is a nearly pixel-for-pixel port of the console versions of the game, with only the visuals being slightly inferior to the XBox and PS3 versions. Also, obviously, the button layout is a bit different. Therefore you, the reader, can assume that this review goes for all the versions of the game, minus the DS version. With that said, let's finally start the review:
Overview: The game is about an evil scientist from the year 2099 who rewrites history by travelling back in time. Miguel O'Hara, the Spider-Man from 2099, is the only one unaffected by this crazy time change. As a result, he sets up a telepathic communication with Peter Parker in the present day and together they fight through the massive Alchemax building to save time.
Story: 10/10
The story in this game is told very very well, with excellent voice actors for all the characters, and a great premise. The two Spider-Men are very dynamic and well-developed, and you can really feel the connection these two have with each other throughout the game. The game also, as opposed to feeling like you're going level-to-level, feels like one giant mission of epicness. The story doesn't slow down until the very end. Overall, the story is really awesome.
Graphics: 9.34/10
This game really seems to show the potential power of the 3DS. For a portable console this looks amazing. It's pretty much identical to the Wii version, to put things in perspective. AND it's in 3D. However, there are some very minor flaws, like the frameskipping animations for Amazing Spidey's web attacks, and when enemies are far away their animation seems choppier. Overall, though, this game looks real solid, and the 3D has no effect on the framerate whatsoever. However, the 3D is a tad bit pointless. It just makes stuff look slightly cooler, and that's never a bad thing I suppose.
Gameplay: 8.275/10
The game plays very well, for the most part. You've got all Spidey's basic abilities, fight, web balls, web swing, push buttons, etc. You can upgrade both Spider-Men to gain cool combos and other moves. All these powers are executed fairly well. However, considering that the whole game takes place in Alchemax, the gameplay CAN get a bit repetitive. You'll do a lot of beating the crap out of soldiers and robots, unlocking doors, flipping switches, and going against time limits. However, because the story keeps moving and there's always a different reason for doing something, different set pieces, and different enemies, this shouldn't become too much of a problem. Also each Spider-Man has a unique ability; Amazing can activate "Hyper-sense" and 2099 can create a decoy of himself. Overall, beating up enemies and fighting the occasional boss fight become highly addictive, and the story will constantly pull you in.
Sound: 9.99/10
The only thing missing is the original Spider Man theme song, although it wouldn't make sense due to the game's dark tone. The voice acting is superb. 'nuff said.
Length and Replay Value: 8.093/10
The best way to enjoy this game is to play it in short bursts of about an hour or two a day. The main story should take around 6 hours, give or take a few, and it took me a little less than a week to beat. With that being said, there are some pretty cool unlockables to be found here. The alternate costumes look pretty darn cool, but I found them to be slightly less detailed than the main suits. They're pretty darn awesome though, and you unlock a couple just for beating the game. Mainly, though, you unlock suits by doing challenges throughout the levels. By doing this you also unlock concept art. The challenges ARE challenging sometimes, and unlocking as many suits as you can and fully upgrading your Spider-Men will definitely take quite some time. This game will definitely keep you occupied for a while.
Overall: 8.5/10
This is a very solid Spider-Man game, even with a few minor flaws. The spectacular story, great visuals, and addicting gameplay make this a solid purchase for your 3DS. Overall, this game is AWESOME!