Transformers: Devastation (PS4) Review

High-Octane Devastation.

 The Transformers franchise has been around for a while, over 30 years now. It all started back in 1984, with the release of classic TV show, Transformers, or Transformers G1 by fans. As a huge fan of the 80's show, I was excited when I heard that Platinum Games (Vanquish, Bayonetta) will be handling the game. And after finishing what the game has to offer, I knew Platinum Games did not disappoint.

STORY-  In typical Transformers fashion, the Decepticons are up to no good. Megatron plans to cyberform earth using plasma energy. It's up to the Autobots to stop the Decipticons and save the day. For those who watched the show, its your typical Autobot vs. Decipticon plot, so don't expect anything unique. The story is interesting at times but its main purpose just there to set things up.  

The Deceptions are up to no good... as always.

GAMEPLAY-  Like the majority of Platinum Games' works, Devastation is a faced-paced hack-and-slash game. Simply put, you run around destroying every enemy you meet. I had some difficulty getting along with the controls at, but as I progressed through the game, it became fast and simple. A mecahinc seen in Platinum's previous works such as "Witch Time" from Bayonetta makes an appearance in the form of "Focus". Basically, this mechanic slows-down time to give you a chance attack the enemy. While its not game-changing by any means, it keeps the combat going. 

Faced-paced and brutal, just like the majority of Platinum's works.

 You control five Autobots: Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, Sideswipe, Wheeljack, and Grimlock. Each has their own unique play-style and abilities. Sideswipe and Bumblebee are the fastest yet deal light damage while Grimlock and Optimus deal high damage at a cost of slow movement. I found that Wheeljack to be the most balanced both in terms of attack and speed, so check him out if you're looking for a well-rounded character.
 I found that the lack of a Decepticon side of the story- similar to High Moon's games- to be a bit disappointing. It would have been awesome to play as Decepticon vets such as Megatron, Strascrem, and Soundwave. It was a missed opportunity, but the game's still good! 

 Furthermore, the game has a customization feature that has you crafting and upgrading your weapons. It's a nice feature that encourages you to replay past levels for better equipment, especially if you're playing on the highest difficulty. Also, there's a T.E.C.H. feature that provide each character with perks such as increased melee damage and a boost in health.

PRESENTATION- One of the best aspect of the game is the presentation. The colors are vibrant and the character designs are stylishly detailed. Sadly, the backgrounds didn't receive the same amount detail and style. For a budget game, the visuals are eye-candy; they do a great job of capturing that 80's feel of the show and are looking good on the 8th gen consoles. Another great aspect of the game is the audio. Most of the cast of the original show reprise their roles. Peter Cullen and Frank Welker both deliver great performances as Optimus Prime and Megatron, respectively. Additionally, the soundtrack packed with neat tracks is a nice addition.

There's more action and explosions here than in a Michael Bay movie.

OVERALL- As a fan of both Platinum Games and Transformers, I had a lot of fun with Transformers: Devastation. The gameplay is fast and smooth- basically the main aspect of the game. The presentation shines bright and stays faithful to the show.Despite some of its shortcomings, Devastation is worth a look if you're a fan of the show or looking for a good action game. 

IMPRESSIVE