Another week, another spotlight. But, unlike other editions of the series, we’d like to illuminate one Bitmob community member in particular — Brian Shirk.
As Bitmob Co-Founder Demian Linn put it, Brian “hulked out” and wrote several noteworthy reviews. His take-no-prisoners attitude has helped to make reading reviews a more enjoyable experience. By including audio and sound effects clips, Brian effectively draws his readers in for the kill. While he’s been a staple among Spotlighted writers, the Bitmob staff and community owe Brian more than a simple “thanks.” So, in honor of our shining star, we’d like you to take a more devoted look at the work which Brian has produced. There are four reviews in particular which are worth your attention — two on the Panzer Dragoon series and two concerning Konami’s Silent Hill franchise.
Now that we’ve gotten the praise and acclamation out of the way, the spotlight swivels over to Ryan Conway’s “For What it’s Worth” series, another essential installment in the review spotlights. This time, Ryan takes a look at Tetris DS and asks the question, “Did this revamp fall perfectly into place or did it just fall flat?”
Lastly, Allistair Everett stops by to review VVVVVV, a game which I have trouble pronouncing. But hey, apparently it isn’t half-bad. Check out the opinions of Allistair and his fellow Bitmobbers after the jump.
Eleven Years Later, This Misty Village Still Generates Nightmares
By Brian Shirk
As the title of the review suggests, it’s been a while since Konami first scared our pants off with the original Silent Hill. But, does the PlayStation game still possess the same eerie, bone-chilling quality as it used to? In true horror-thriller fashion, Brian writes the review from the perspective of Harry Mason, the game’s protagonist. While the green and white background of Bitmob may break the illusion, Brian sets a creepy tone by including music clips from the game. If you don’t have a PlayStation, reading this review is almost as good as wandering through the abandoned houses of the resort town.
Is Konami’s First PS2 Survival Horror Epic Still Worth Experiencing?
By Brian Shirk
After besting the unearthly opponents of the original game, Brian was determined to answer the inevitable question: Is Silent Hill 2 as good as its predecessor? Stumbling into the same hillside town under the aegis of a different character — this time named Jack — Brian falls victims to ghastly scares and heart-stopping anxiety as he uncovers the secret of his long-dead girlfriend. He adopts a more traditional standard of writing in this review, but his talents are far from subtle. With the same thrilling audio clips and outstanding writing, Brian successfully separates the pros and cons of Silent Hill 2. If you’re a fan of engaging thrillers, allow Brian to make a case for this game — after all, you may find yourself scouring eBay for a copy of the game by the end of the day.
Is This Saga Worthy of Your Tuition Money?
By Brian Shirk
I don’t have a Sega Saturn, but games like Panzer Dragon Saga have always tempted me to buy one. The console has recently entered vintage status, absorbing the high price levels which come with the territory. So does the experience offered by Saga justify the price of the console, let alone the game itself? Brian sets the record straight with this review. Lengthy and thorough, the review includes a short list of the game’s achievements and failures for the faint of heart.
A Linear, But Beautiful Xbox Flying Experience
By Brian Shirk
Before bowing out of the spotlight, Brian leaves us with one last review which gives closure to the Panzer Dragoon series. At a time when first-person shooters began to dominate the consoles, Panzer Dragoon Orta did its best to provide a relevant experience. Is this game worth picking up? Brian will give you the best advice possible, and he’ll throw in some songs from the soundtrack just to spice things up.
For What it’s Worth: Tetris DS
By Ryan Conway
If you’re new to Ryan’s review template, he appraises the value of a game and compares it with the retail price. If you’re lucky, you may buy a game that’s worth $60 for only $20. Brian sorts out the four-pieced blocks of Tetris and comes to a verdict on the age-old franchise’s newest iteration. Are you tired of those silly blocks or are you hungry for more? Let Ryan decide.
Review: VVVVVV
By Allistair Everett
With a title as mysterious as it is confusing, VVVVVV is Distrationware’s “most ambitious and first commercial release.” For $15, this indie game better be good. Luckily for you and me, Allistair writes for Bitmob, and he’s glad to share his opinion. “Well, what does he think of the game?” Hit the link above, you bozo. This ain’t no peep show!