The cut scenes are further supplemented by some quality vocal work that pushes along the game’s story. Both the voice acting and the revving of the drill are thankfully the best audio features of the title as those two features are the predominant sources of sound players will hear in Gurumin. There are a few other nice touches including sound effects that differ depending on what type of item the drill is striking, but unfortunately the limited music in the title take a definitive backseat to the sound effects.
For the most part, the game play in Gurumin controls very nicely, but during game play players will have to occasionally fight the camera as well as enemies. The most particular problem stems from the amount of zoom the camera gives to the action. While the tight view gives the title a good amount of graphical flair, fighting off groups of multiple phantoms can be a bit of an exercise if there are baddies hidden from view off screen.
There are unfortunately a few elements that slow up the process of the game, including disc access and backtracking. Finding elements crucial to the progression of the story requires players to return to town every time and is further crutched by loading every time Parin enters a brand new area. While it is bearable and not as bad as other PSP titles, the frequent access breaks up what is otherwise an enjoyable action-packed RPG romp.
The main story isn’t among the longest in terms of longevity, but completists will have a ball uncovering all the nooks and crannies Gurumin has to offer. Through the course of the action-packed romp featuring more than 40 types of enemies, players can unlock costumes and mini-games among the collectable accessories and medals awarded for completing quests.
Overall, Gurumin definitely warrants a look from anyone who wants to plug a new game play experience into their PSP. Packed with run and jump action against hoards of enemies and a ton of extras to comb through, the title joins the growing library of strong titles on Sony’s portable system. While it looks cute and cuddly on the outside, Gurumin: A Monstrous Adventure provides some definite action bang for the buck on the go.
Gurumin: A Monstrous Adventure is rated E10+ (Everyone 10+) by the ESRB and contains Mild Fantasy Violence, Mild Suggestive Themes, Tobacco Reference.
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