Samurai Jack: The Shadow of Aku GameCube game

Samurai Jack: The Shadow of Aku

2004

Overall rating: 2.5 out of 5

from 56 members

Where some games offer innovation and a creative approach, others can fall short of the mark by merely imitating those with merit. However, those that are simply 'inspired' by world renowned video game creations should not be pigeon-holed as copies, and the same is true of Sega's Samurai Jack. Though the game's style is distinct and faithful to the cartoon series, a mere glance at the game's visuals and how it is played offers striking similarities to Nintendo's Wind Waker and Capcom's Viewtiful Joe. But we're sure you'll agree that's really no bad thing. From a technical point of view, Samurai Jack is rather Zelda-esque. Ignoring the combat-heavy play mechanic for a moment, Samurai Jack boasts similar visuals to Zelda's latest GameCube venture and involves players in puzzle and platform elements of play in which cutting ropes, blasting doors and destroying crates are just a few of protagonist Jack's abilities. The combat system is a different case altogether. Initially, Samurai Jack's sword-wielding antics seem fairly standard. Our hero is blessed with a variety of typical ninja-like abilities, which he must use to fend off a bestiary of more than 20 foes including Aku, the Scotsman and Mad Jack. Shurikens and a bow and arrow have also been thrown in for good measure. But when a player engages Sakai Mode, the similarity to Viewtiful Joe becomes all too obvious. Quite simply, Sakai mode enforces slow-motion action that allows players to control time in order to take out faster and increasing numbers of enemies with less effort. Samurai Jack is clearly an inspired game, but it is unique regardless. It's fun to play, there's plenty to do and it'll no doubt go down well with the young ones.