Ultimate Ghosts 'n Goblins (Pre-E3 2006)

One of the most beloved 2D games on the NES is getting a true sequel as Capcom is readying Ultimate Ghosts 'n Goblins for the PSP. While some may argue that Maximo and Maximo 2 were the true sequels to Ghosts 'n Goblins, this isn't exactly true. Ghosts 'n Goblins is known for its fast and furious 2D gameplay. This is exactly what Capcom is bringing us in the true sequel.

First off, this game is hard. Not just a little bit hard--but insanely hard. So hard that you will want to pull the game out, rip it into pieces, fling your PSP into a brick wall, jump up and down on the screen, and pray that Capcom burns in hell for making it. For those of you familiar with the original title on the NES, you will know that this is one of the first games where gamers would actually break controllers in frustration. Unfortunately for all of us, PSP units are expensive and unless you have piles of money lying around, you will have to come up with some other way to let out your anger. How about pulling out that NES controller in your closet and throwing it around again?

Fans of the franchise will find that they still control Arthur. And while the gameplay is still 2D, the world and environments are all 3D. Enemies will come from below the ground, above you, to the left, from the right, and attempt to kill you. Each hit will knock off some of your armor until you are left in your boxers. Fortunately for you, there are plenty of power-ups to pick up along the way. These all vary in strength and abilities. So beware of picking up something weaker than what you already have.

In this latest build, the action is moving at a fast and steady framerate. The visuals are awesome looking and this is shaping up to be an incredible title for the PSP. Seeing any game running in beautiful 2D brings a tear to my eye and makes me pray for a Symphony of the Night sequel on the beautiful screen.

While we may have to wait for Ultimate Ghosts 'n Goblins until September 2006, this is shaping up to be one of the best PSP titles of the year.