Game Review – Ultimate Ghosts n’ Goblins for PSP

Ultimate Ghosts n’ Goblins

Developer: Capcom

Publisher/Distributor: Capcom

ESRB Rating: 7+

Genre: Arcade/Platform

Official Website: http://ww2.capcom.com/ugng/

Reviewed by Julie Gray
Review originally published October 28, 2006

The first Ghosts n’ Goblins game was released in 1985. Since then, there have been a couple of sequels; Ghouls and Ghosts in 1988 and in 1991, Super Ghouls and Ghosts. Ultimate Ghosts n’ Goblins debuts for the first time on the PSP but back in the day, this game used to be one of the more popular games found at your local video games parlour.

Capcom have really done retro gamers proud by releasing the next game in the series that has had such a great following over the years. And to ensure its prosperity, releasing this title for the PSP is nothing short of ingenious. Now you can play this classic game anywhere, anytime and wireless if you want too. Certain titles are made for the portable experience and Ultimate Ghosts n’ Goblins is no exception.

The background to this game is not entirely authentic but it’s extremely well done and entertaining. The main character in the game is the noble Knight Arthur. Arthur has a mission to rescue the princess Prin Prin who has been kidnapped. Along the way, Arthur encounters all sorts of challenges and beasties and as Arthur; you get to fight your way through it all – just like in the arcade version of the game. And that’s about the extent of the storyline. Short and sweet but that’s okay.

The graphics of UGnG’s will probably be the first thing you notice. Based around a side scrolling arcade view, UGnG’s now utilises a brand spanking new 3-D engine. It’s amazing what a new graphics engine can do for a game. Ultimate Ghosts n’ Goblins really looks like it has had a major facelift, and that’s just the beginning.

The weapons in the game have also been upgraded, bringing Arthur’s arsenal into the 21st century. The Vince Whip is a great addition as well as the ability to also use shields in the game. Arthur really has been upgraded! Magic is also another element that is introduced in many different ways throughout the game, whether it’s part of a special weapon you pick up or as a trinket you might find or locate on your journey.

There are six levels in total to complete in the game and three different difficulty modes; Novice, Standard and Ultimate. If you’re someone who is old enough to remember this game (20 odd years back at least) when it was in the arcades, you’ll know that even back then, Ghosts n’ Goblins was a challenging game to play and a difficult game to master. UGnG’s is no different and carries on the same tradition as the original. So, if you wanna get kicking some A’ as Arthur in this latest install of the classic Ghosts n’ Goblins franchise, it’s out now and waiting at a retailer near you!

You can view the original published review here.