This originally wasn’t on my review list, but after finding a really cheap copy I can’t help but review it ASAP. Plus it’s pretty short so I should have it beaten in no time!

Power Stone (Dreamcast)

I think I’ll stick to the same style of reviewing as my Super Castlevania IV review, where I give a few things I really liked about the game.  This time, however, there will be some negatives, because this game does have some minor issues.  But first, the positives!

Pros:

• The pick-up-and-play style of this game is great.  Anyone can grab a controller and jump right into the action without the need for lengthy tutorials.  It may not be deep, but it’s a hell of a lot of fun.
• The art style and character designs are fantastic.  Each character is unique, with their own quirks, attacks, specials, and more for a really diverse roster to choose from (even with only ten fighters to choose from).
• The multiplayer.  This is a 3D arena brawler, so the pure chaos of scrambling for the three Power Stones on the map while you and your friend beat the holy living crap out of each other is thrilling and intense (collecting all three gives your character a more powerful for for a limited time, which can really turn the tables on your opponent if used effectively).
• Adjustable difficulty for the arcade mode.  You’ll probably need this on your first run through.

Cons:

• The enemy AI in arcade mode is downright cheap most of the time.  If you play on the default difficulty, prepare to have your ass handed to you on more than one occasion.  As with any fighting game, the deeper in you get, the more relentless the fights get.  God help you if your computer-controlled adversary grabs the Power Stones before you do.
• Other than that, the overall single player experience isn’t that great.  You have a standard arcade mode, and not much else.  Power Stone 2 would later fix this by adding an Adventure mode.
• The soundtrack isn’t very memorable.

I think that about covers it!  Power Stone is a great game, and a must for any Dreamcast owner.  It’s quirky enough to overshadow its shortcomings, and fun enough to warrant hours of play, especially with a friend.  Now if only Capcom would release a third entry…

brotherbrain:

Suit Up Mario! by Brother Brain ★ 
Super Mario Bros. 3 (NES) Nintendo 1988. 
Super Mario All-Stars (SNES) Nintendo 1993. 

Power Stone review coming soon!

Do you have the sudden urge to purchase an unopened copy of Castlevania: Bloodlines for the Sega Genesis?  Well, you can do so at Amazon for just $120! (Or you can get a modestly priced used copy for $22)