Final Fantasy Type-0 HD
Overview -
Just prior to the launch of the PlayStation Vita in 2011, Square Enix released 'Final Fantasy Type-0' on the PSP. This Japan-only game has been lurking for years, with rumors and fan requests hoping for a western debut at every turn. Finally, in 2014, Square Enix announced that the game had been be prettied up and localized for a Western release, but not on the Vita or PS3. Instead, 'Final Fantasy Type-0 HD' would go straight to the current hot platforms, the PS4 and Xbox One.
Video Review
Once a PSP game… No really, it's wise for players to brace themselves for the worst. CGI cutscenes are nice enough for what they are, and overall, the characters wouldn't look out of place on a PS3, but the environments are boxy and muddled, still require frequent, albeit brief, loading screens. Areas like robot factories seem redeeming when compared with the town streets, but the disconnect between the characters and environments is staggering. 'Peace Walker' and 'Skyward Sword' did better with simpler textures than 'Type-O' does in many areas.
While I'm happy to play 'Type-0 HD' on the PS4, it looks like it was produced with the Vita in mind.
Audio Review
Like the visuals, the sound design appears to be from the school of PSP to Vita, with not much happening surround wise. The soundtrack has the 'Final Fantasy' well to drawn off of. (Leveling up, brings immediate gratification via audio.) English voice acting is serviceable to fine in many places, but the sidequests hurt. I'm not sure that the Japanese voice acting is all that better, but I loved being able to switch over once I tired of the English. This can be done from the title screen and does not require a new game.
Final Thoughts
Forget JRPGs, 'Final Fantasy' games alone are enough to form hard lines between various fans. 'Type-0' plays like it's meant to be enjoyed in bite sizes and in marathon sessions, and the story is so much more palatable and enjoyable than what one might expect from the past 15 years. For better and for worse, 'Final Fantasy Type-0 HD' is a hit PSP game reborn. It's been made available for a worldwide audience, and should that audience see past the lingering limitations of the PSP, 'Final Fantasy Type-0 HD' will be held up as a new standard bearer for JRPG gameplay and story.
