If you didn't realize, Apollo Justice - Ace Attorney is on shelves today in North America. It's the 4th game in the cult hit Ace Attorney series from Capcom. Apollo Justice starts a new saga in the Ace Attorney series, so you don't actually have to have played the Phoenix Wright trilogy to understand everything (though you won't catch a couple subtle references to the old games). So, why should you buy it you ask?
Characters: Apollo Justice maintains the franchise's high standard of quality for characters and character development. Throughout the game you will meet numerous hilarious and interesting personas that will surely leave a lasting impression on you. You play as Apollo Justice, a young upcomming defense attorney under the tutelage of Phoenix Wright, the first trilogy's protagonist. You'll also be accompanied by Trucy (yes I know her name is awful), your young and pretty assistant, and Phoenix's adopted daughter.
Plot: No series I have played has ever surprised me as much as Ace Attorney. They love to string you along, and lead you to believe that you know what's going on, then hit you with a curvball that you never saw coming. Each case is completely different from those before it. They will all be filled with humor, cleverness, and some touching drama. Usually these cases are murder mysteries, but as you go through each case, you'll slowly solve the greater mystery of Phoenix's past, and watch the characters develop and grow.
Gameplay: Ace Attorney is often described as a visual novel, which isn't too far off base. There is a lot of reading and text, but you'll hardly be doing nothing but. Each case requires thorough investigation and interrogation in a point-and-click style. You'll use tools with the touchscreen and mic to find fingerprints, make footprint molds, and spray crimescenes for residue of poison or blood in your hunt for clues.
In the courtroom you can yell "OBJECTION!" or "HOLD IT!" into the mic when you want to contradict a point made by the witness (you don't have to), and your mental ability will constantly be tested with challenging connections. You will need to closely examine evidence and testimony to find the contradictions!
All of this comes together into a unique video game, which can be a truly emotional experience to play. It may not be for everyone, but I highly recommend everyone who loves great storytelling and characters give this unique and engaging experience a shot.
Play the demo below:
And remember, if you like it, go out and buy the original Phoenix Wright trilogy as well. Please support this great, artistic, and unique experience on the Nintendo DS.
