This $40 compilation is a golden opportunity for Xbox 360 owners to jump into a pair of cult favorites that were previously PlayStation-only. Mostly overlooked by gamers in their heyday, both Zone of the Enders games (released in 2001 and 2003, respectively) hold up pretty well a decade after their original releases.
Both third-person mecha action games feature an experimental mech named “Jehuty.” Jehuty starts out with a fairly simple sword-and-gun combo, but as the stories progress, it picks up a variety of powerful subweapons. Of the two games, the sequel is more straightforward and linear, but it also features a better story, much larger battles, and sharper, more responsive controls.
Moreover, the second Zone benefits from the use of anime cutscenes: they look much better in HD than the first game’s hilariously outdated CG cutscenes, which are noticeably darker and muddier than the gameplay. In the game itself, the simple but sharp approach to the art fares well in HD.
These ports are reasonably well-done overall, although outside of a redrawn opening, this collection offer no real bonuses. On the plus side, American fans will note that Zone of the Enders 2 is the “special edition” variant featuring extra missions, more orbital frames, and other perks. Considering you’re getting two good mecha shooters at a reasonable price, we heartily recommend this package.
Zone of the Enders is notable for its sweet mech designs.
The anime pop-ins actually look better here than in the cutscenes.+ Competent ports that avoid compromising the framerate or graphical quality.
+ Using the Zone of the Enders 2 Special Edition is a nice touch.
– With few other bonuses, this collection feels less inspired than it could be.
? Will we finally get the much-requested Zone of the Enders 3?
