BloodRayne Betrayal is a 2D side scrolling platformer game developer by Wayforward and published by Majesco.
There are 15 levels in this game; 15 extremely challenging levels. BloodRayne is an extremely difficult game, a fact which is forgiven slightly by controls which are easy to use and allow for continual attacking and blood sucking throughout the game. The controls are explained on a need to use basis on the first level, which is a style that I personally don’t like normally. However it works really well in this game.
As mentioned above this game has a very steep learning curve that curves up to and levels out to a difficulty line that remains very high. It reaches a point where it is almost too difficult to be fun, however Wayforward have managed to keep the enjoyment in this game whilst it being, quite frankly a brutal game. That is a huge credit on their part, as very few developers can pull that off. The gameplay is simple but plays very well, allowing the player to concentrate on the game it’s self rather than working out what to do next.
The graphics of BloodRayne are in 2D and based on a comic book style. With so many games now focusing on 3D graphics, it’s really nice to see developers using 2D graphics. BloodRaynes graphics have been well drawn, with a gothic element running through the art. The whole art style just fits well with the platformer style of play.
BloodRayne, is a game that will last you for several hours, not just to the difficulty of the game, but all the levels are of a decent length (and may take a few attempts.) and with 15 of them this will take a while. With the addition of 12 achievements for Xbox, which you have to do some different gameplay for, rather than just gaining an achievement for finishing each level and a grading system for each level, there is plenty of opportunity for replay. This game is worth the points if your after something a bit lengthy for a XBLA game.
Presentation
The art is beautiful and one of the best elements of the game. It sets the right atmosphere for the genre of game, extremely well designed and created. I love the 2D element of this game, more games need to have 2D art in my opinion.
Gameplay
As mentioned many a time, this game is hard. Really hard. However the game is still enjoyable, so the gameplay is a really hit for me, to make a game like this takes skill. Kudos to Wayforward. The controls are simple and easy to use, so overall a really amazing gameplay. The only thing I will fault though is the lack of a difficulty setting. I think with that in place the gameplay will be less daunting to the new players of the series.
Longetivity
This game can be played again and again, even if only to learn each level inside out to gain the highest ranking for each level! The length of each level is good, and this game will take the average player a good few sittings to finish. For the achievement hunters of you out there, this game could take several days to get all of them. Good value for MS points.
Overall
Overall BloodRayne is a good game, (even if I do suck at it….) epically for an XBLA title. The graphics draw players in to the platform game, and the difficulty really sets a challenge even for more experienced players. If you want a good solid arcade game to get your teeth in to, this is for you.
Disclaimer:All scores given within our reviews are based on the artist’s personal opinion; this should in no way impede your decision to purchase the game.
