The media reviews have begun. Like most of you, the demo was enough to confirm this to be a must-play title. BTW, check out this thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=821060) for a lot of preview info with pics, videos and interviews.

BONUS! adams828 has the game rather early (just like PS3 CoD4) and is posting up pics from the final copy at this link. (http://avspics.blogspot.com/)

The first confirmed score is a 9.0 from a Portuguese magazine called MaxiConsoles (summary translation from francis6 in GameTrailer's forums):

''There are others enemies, some of those with Warlike power, there are plenty of surprises on the game, we are not giving informations about those enemies, to not spoil the game...''

TOTAL: 9.0

Graphics 9.5

Gameplay 9.0

Sound 9.0

Longevity 7.5


''Best ps3 exclusive yet''

''Better looking than Heavenly Sword''

''The Treasure wanted by so many ps3 players''

http://img123.imageshack.us/img123/681/dsc01677rd7.jpg

Longevity often means replay value, which is subject to opinion but of course is often a higher score for multi-player games. Uncharted's length is said to be between 10-12 hours the first time through (not unlocking all of the hidden secrets), or about twice as long as Heavenly Sword.


NeoGAF is reporting in the forums that EGM awards the game 8.5, 8.5, 8.5 (thx Slacker George).


ign.com (http://ps3.ign.com/articles/834/834931p1.html) clocks in with a 9.1 score with the reviewer saying...
Uncharted: Drake's Fortune is the most fun I've had in a videogame this year.
.
.
.
Here's the thing about Uncharted, the final sum is far greater than the individual parts. Maybe you don't dig the combat or maybe the pop-in gets you down, but the overall package of an endearing story, outstanding score, great performances and fun gameplay should put this title on the top of your holiday wishlist. Say what you will about the PS3, but Uncharted isn't just a standout for Sony -- it's a standout for gaming as a whole.


With a 9/10 score, Eurogamer (http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=87533) essentially says its the best looking game ever made:

Talking of environments, it's hard to think of a single game that's ever included such lush and staggeringly detailed gaming environment. As much as Gears of War provided a stunning next-generation shooter setting, the moody greys and browns made it a harsh, dark, hostile, and monochromatic place to be. In Uncharted, it's not just superior to Gears in terms of out and out detail, but brings a feel-good factor with the sheer level of environmental variety on offer. Covering the full spectrum from 'destroyed beauty' to lush, tropical jungles (and all points in between), it has the kind of action adventure template that Eidos and Crystal Dynamics must be looking at with a great deal of envy right now. In truth, it may take years before rival brands find themselves with game engines as effortlessly capable as this one. Truly, Uncharted is the first game I've seen to date that makes me wonder if it could be done on the Xbox 360, and as a huge admirer of the software line-up on Microsoft's system, that's saying a lot.

In its full 1080p glory, I can safely say most people will be absolutely blown away by the craft that has gone into making the world come alive. The dusty, crumbling ruins, the dense, tropical forests, and even the water effects - they're above and beyond anything committed to a gaming canvas to date. Yes, at the end of the day it's just eye candy, but what eye candy! Isn't this one of the reasons we look forward to new technology? To reiterate, when you factor in immensely fluid animation, superb controls, a flawless, ever-helpful camera system, decent enemy AI and an engaging non-cringeworthy storyline, the fact that there's also a visual feast on show is something to celebrate.


GameSpy (http://ps3.gamespy.com/playstation-3/naughty-dog-ps3-project/835136p1.html) is equally impressed, giving the game a 4.5/5.0 rating:

It's also a gorgeous game that you'll hear taxing your PlayStation 3; it utilizes the system's technology wonderfully for both visuals and loading screen-free gaming. The PS3 has received a good share of some solid games this year, but any gamers who own the console truly owe it to themselves to make Uncharted part of their library. In a sea of great first person shooters, you won't get a better action game this year.

BONUS! adams828 has the game rather early (just like PS3 CoD4) and is posting up pics from the final copy at this link.

Is this the review of the demo or the retail version?

Retail.

Not a trusted source for me... If the 15th is real which I highly doubt this is going to be one fun weekend...

I'll add more reviews as they are released. As of now, this is the only one.

Retail.No, it's a review of a review copy. Journalists get retail versions the same day that retailers do (usually a day or two before the street date). But they get review copies in advance of the retail version. Often review versions have minor (sometimes major) differences from retail versions. Additionally, review copies require a "debug" console to play them, and usually only go to those journalists who sign over their souls (i.e., sign NDAs and exclusivity agreements).

Has the release date for Uncharted been moved up to 11/15 now?

I checked these sites:

http://www.ebgames.com/product.asp?product%5fid=270087
http://www.gamestop.com/product.asp?product%5fid=270087
http://www.gamespot.com/ps3/action/uncharteddrakesfortune/index.html?om_act=convert&om_clk=topten&tag=topten;all;title;9

And they have the game shipping on the 15th now?

Has the release date for Uncharted been moved up to 11/15 now?


http://ps3.ign.com/articles/834/834360p1.html

Gamestop has changed it back to the 19th, bummer.

That's odd, I just preordered it today at Gamestop and the manager said he'd have it on the 20th.

That's odd, I just preordered it today at Gamestop and the manager said he'd have it on the 20th.Official release date is 19th. I believe Gamestop receives their shipments from a local distribution center which sends out games to the individual stores on the release date, which is why they generally don't arrive until a day or two after the official release date. Other stores are more likely to get them on the day-of (usually non-game specialty stores like BB or CC or Target).

Official release date is 19th. I believe Gamestop receives their shipments from a local distribution center which sends out games to the individual stores on the release date, which is why they generally don't arrive until a day or two after the official release date. Other stores are more likely to get them on the day-of (usually non-game specialty stores like BB or CC or Target).

Actually, the 19th is the ship date. The date you see printed on IGN, EBGames, Gamestop, etc., is ALWAYS a ship date. Places like Best Buy will have their web site list the game at least 2 days after that but weekly flyers usually state they'll have the game in the following day by 2:00 pm. SO, in the case of Drake, it will be on store shelves on Tuesday, Nov. 20, by 2:00 PM.

EGM Scores

8.5, 8.5, 8.5

This comes from a poster on NeoGAF, pretty sure it's legit. Not too shabby.

Thanks... I'll edit it to the top unless we find out otherwise.

IGN Review is up:

http://ps3.ign.com/articles/834/834931p1.html

9.1 overall.

^^^ Thanks for the link. This quote says a lot of what the reviewer thought of it:

Uncharted: Drake's Fortune is the most fun I've had in a videogame this year.

Well I can say it is the most fun I've had in any demo so far (Team Fortress 2 for the PC doesn't count since the beta was the final game). I'll add the link to the first page.

I think this says a lot too.
...the overall package of an endearing story, outstanding score, great performances and fun gameplay should put this title on the top of your holiday wishlist. Say what you will about the PS3, but Uncharted isn't just a standout for Sony -- it's a standout for gaming as a whole.

He also says the AI is great(which was apparent in the demo):)

another must buy. got my white dualshock 3 today and the demo was the first thing i played with it... i didnt realize how much i missed rumble:D

I wanted to see a couple a reviews first before I buy.

I just bought it from Amazon.

nice... i like the fact developers make cheats unlockable after earning skill points (R&C does something similar). it actually makes me want to play through the game again. the IGN review says one of the cheats is infinite ammo which will be nice as it seems like ammo will be kind of limited throughout the game.

i'm fine with the IGN score but i think the visuals department of the review deserves higher... personally, i think Uncharted is the best looking console game this year. i know they were reviewed by different people, but CoD4 got a 10 for graphics and Uncharted got a 9. CoD4 has great art direction and lighting, but Uncharted (albeit 30fps) is more technically impressive imo.

Having played the demo close to 20 times so far I am not worried about replayability at all.

Next tuesday cant come soon enough.

another must buy. got my white dualshock 3 today and the demo was the first thing i played with it... i didnt realize how much i missed rumble:D

Off topic, but who did you get your DS3 from? I need one :D

A glowing review from Eurogamer (http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=87533&page=1).

9/10
The fact that Uncharted: Drake's Fortune has ended up so good has come as a real surprise, given that there was never any real 'buzz' around it leading up to its release. But, thinking about it, when has Naughty Dog ever let us down? Given a fresh platform and a new lease of life with a radically different style of game, it has carefully pieced together the best bits of all your favourite action adventures and come up with a fundamentally focused offering that's easily as good, if not better than any of them.


By starting with a great control and camera system, building on that with excellent combat and a wonderful spin on Ico's platform adventuring, and then topping it off with a decent storyline, Naughty Dog has cooked up one of the most relentlessly entertaining, fat-free games to emerge in ages. Topped off with the most stunning use of the PS3's underused technical prowess yet, Uncharted: Drake's Fortune is, for my money, the first must-have PlayStation 3 title.




GameSpy (http://ps3.gamespy.com/playstation-3/naughty-dog-ps3-project/835136p1.html) too.

4.5/5
Pros
Seamlessly blends platforming, shooting, and Hollywood production values to create one of the year's most compelling games.

Cons
Some will find it too short for their liking; some pop-in and screen tearing; sporadic collision detection issues.
Man, they're really stretching to come up with the cons. You'd be hard pressed to find any game without minor graphics issues like those.

Looking good so far.

I'm cynical about pre-release reviews, however. They tend to be more generous than post-release reviews. Without going into the motives for it, look at the Assassins' Creed reviews as a prime example. Anyway, this and Mass Effect are without a doubt the top two next to buy games on my list.

I think this says a lot too.


He also says the AI is great(which was apparent in the demo):)

ND worked hard on the AI and it paid off. I'm hoping Sony will be able to outsource EDGE (engine used) to other developers. I wouldn't mind more developers using it. :)

and yes, this game will pwn hardcore.

Adding the new reviews to the list... Eurogamer in particular is uncharateristically praise-happy with this one. They essentially say its the best looking game of all time:

Talking of environments, it's hard to think of a single game that's ever included such lush and staggeringly detailed gaming environment. As much as Gears of War provided a stunning next-generation shooter setting, the moody greys and browns made it a harsh, dark, hostile, and monochromatic place to be. In Uncharted, it's not just superior to Gears in terms of out and out detail, but brings a feel-good factor with the sheer level of environmental variety on offer. Covering the full spectrum from 'destroyed beauty' to lush, tropical jungles (and all points in between), it has the kind of action adventure template that Eidos and Crystal Dynamics must be looking at with a great deal of envy right now. In truth, it may take years before rival brands find themselves with game engines as effortlessly capable as this one. Truly, Uncharted is the first game I've seen to date that makes me wonder if it could be done on the Xbox 360, and as a huge admirer of the software line-up on Microsoft's system, that's saying a lot.

In its full 1080p glory, I can safely say most people will be absolutely blown away by the craft that has gone into making the world come alive. The dusty, crumbling ruins, the dense, tropical forests, and even the water effects - they're above and beyond anything committed to a gaming canvas to date. Yes, at the end of the day it's just eye candy, but what eye candy! Isn't this one of the reasons we look forward to new technology? To reiterate, when you factor in immensely fluid animation, superb controls, a flawless, ever-helpful camera system, decent enemy AI and an engaging non-cringeworthy storyline, the fact that there's also a visual feast on show is something to celebrate.

Looking good so far.

I'm cynical about pre-release reviews, however. They tend to be more generous than post-release reviews. Without going into the motives for it, look at the Assassins' Creed reviews as a prime example. Anyway, this and Mass Effect are without a doubt the top two next to buy games on my list.Some high-profile titles have publisher-reviewer exclusivity deals. For example, sometimes publishers are as explicit as saying that a review can't be published ahead of the release date unless it is above a certain percentage/point score. But those are some respectable sites publishing those high reviews!

Also, the problem with Assassin's Creed reviews seems to be not when the reviews were published, but who wrote them. Some people don't think the game's flaws are a big deal considering its strengths; others think the flaws are impossible to ignore.

i'll say this: at first play the demo seemed pretty blah to me. then i played it again. and again. i've now officially changed my opinion and think this game is going to be pretty great

i'll say this: at first play the demo seemed pretty blah to me. then i played it again. and again. i've now officially changed my opinion and think this game is going to be pretty greatThe game is definitely not "in your face", but it has a lot of subtlties that you start noticing if you give it time. The pacing is also what I would characterize as "deliberate". I imagine someone coming off a game like COD4 would think it as "plodding" but I really like the pacing.

Actually, the 19th is the ship date. The date you see printed on IGN, EBGames, Gamestop, etc., is ALWAYS a ship date. Places like Best Buy will have their web site list the game at least 2 days after that but weekly flyers usually state they'll have the game in the following day by 2:00 pm. SO, in the case of Drake, it will be on store shelves on Tuesday, Nov. 20, by 2:00 PM.

According to Sony, the 19th is the In-store date

http://blog.us.playstation.com/2007/11/13/uncharted-drakes-fortune-first-review/

"Hi all - this is my first PlayStation Blog post so let me first introduce myself - I work in Software Product Marketing and lucky enough to be working with Naughty Dog on Uncharted: Drake’s Fortune.

I’m sure you’ve heard some rumors that Uncharted will be hitting stores November 15th. As much as we’d love to get the game in your hands earlier, just wanted to let you guys know that we are still on schedule to be in-store November 19th…so you’re going to have to wait 7 more days ;-). But hopefully the demo and DJ Shadow track will keep you going till then."

According to Sony, the 19th is the In-store date
This is exactly the disinction I was making before. Console manufacturers and game publishers will say the release date is an "in-store" date, while retailers will claim it's a "ship" date. Again, this all depends on the individual retailer's distribution infrastructure and how their distribution coordinates with the individual publisher's distribution infrastructure.

Coordinating a "release date" across such a wide array of retailers is incredibly complex.

This is exactly the disinction I was making before. Console manufacturers and game publishers will say the release date is an "in-store" date, while retailers will claim it's a "ship" date. Again, this all depends on the individual retailer's distribution infrastructure and how their distribution coordinates with the individual publisher's distribution infrastructure.

Coordinating a "release date" across such a wide array of retailers is incredibly complex.

Which is exactly why there needs to be a standard. Everything should be released on Tuesdays. Music is. DVDs are. Why not throw games into that mix, too? The amount of confusion that surrounds releases of anticipated titles is just stupid because it is completely unnecessary and could easily be avoided.

Which is exactly why there needs to be a standard. Everything should be released on Tuesdays. Music is. DVDs are. Why not throw games into that mix, too? The amount of confusion that surrounds releases of anticipated titles is just stupid because it is completely unnecessary and could easily be avoided.

I agree too. I mean it can't be that much of a problem to ship a game a day or 2 earlier than they already do. A lot of people go into Best Buy, etc on Tuesday for the new music and movie releases, I'd think companies would want to capitalize on that.

I cant wait, waiting is evil.

GamePro 4/5 (http://www.gamepro.com/sony/ps3/games/reviews/147948.shtml)

I know it's dumb to get bent out of shape about reviews, (personal opinions, different reviewers, yada yada) but something's wrong with this picture:

Uncharted
Final score - 4.0
Graphics - 4.75

Need For Speed: Pro Street
Final score - 4.5
Graphics - 5.0

And what the heck is this crap:
It's no secret that the PS3 needs hits, and badly. That's why games like Uncharted are so important: They're not necessarily triple-A titles but if they're done right, they can give hungry PS3 owners something to tide them over until games like MGS4 finally arrive.

lmfao, ProStreet got a 5 for graphics and scored higher than Drake? now thats a f'ing joke! i don't care if they were reviewed by different people, thats just wrong...

edit: and they gave SD vs Raw a 4.5 Editor's Choice... wtf? their taste in games is... interesting.

And what the heck is this crap:It's no secret that the PS3 needs hits, and badly. That's why games like Uncharted are so important: They're not necessarily triple-A titles but if they're done right, they can give hungry PS3 owners something to tide them over until games like MGS4 finally arrive.That just doesn't make any sense. I'm not sure what qualifies as a "AAA-title" in their minds, but they're probably the only game reviewers in the world who would say that Uncharted isn't one.

The term "AAA-title" has less to do with quality than it does with PR and budget. Lair is a AAA-title; it just also happens to suck.

I don't understand it, but I've seen other comments like, "Well, at least this game is pretty good and will hold gamers over until MGS4 and FFXIII (or whatever) come out."... those games aren't automatically going to be masterpieces you know!

Of course, I've never played the old MGS games or FF games so I probably just don't understand the hype.

Can't wait to get Uncharted though... I played through the demo 3 times and it got more fun each time, so the full game should be fantastic!

Okay, so I think personally for me there was a little bit of hype surrounding the game, so of course I am being exceptionally picky and detailed here:

Graphics: Great, but not what I would call mind blowing. In some of the more open outdoor scenes there was some *minor* AA and tearing (again this is me specifically looking for these things). One thing that was wow is that as he gets wet, you get the wet jeans and shirt effect.. slick. Didn't do too much testing on this so far, but some objects have some great weapon impact effects as well (although I must say the explosions seem kind of road runner/acme cartoon cheesy). Oh and the scene from the trailers where the jeep is blown off the cliff? Excellent!

Animation: Awesome! At first it gets a little annoying when you are exploring and trying to jump on things, but after that you just constantly go "wow.. did he just do that?"

Gameplay: Definitely intense and draws you in. A nice pace of puzzles and gunfights. My one complaint so far does involve the weapons.. I can kill a guy in less shots with a pistol than an AK-47? Also, the amount of ammo you can carry is somewhat limited - definitely more realistic however. The AI is cool - guys will take cover, pop out at different angles and try and flank you. They are a little predictible after a while, however there are a few firefights where I've gone down fast (playing on Hard - still not as insane as COD4 Veteran). Hanging from a ledge and then popping up to pick off guys is sweet (as well as the one handed reloading animation)

I'm up just past the level in the demo - probably took about 2.5 -3 hours? Plan on spending time running around looking for hidden treasure and just enjoying the scenery also.

I'm up just past the level in the demo - probably took about 2.5 -3 hours? Plan on spending time running around looking for hidden treasure and just enjoying the scenery also.


You have the game already? Is it out early? I know you got COD4 before everyone else...Maybe I just don't pay enough attention to release dates.

The problem for me is that their is no lasting appeal for me. I am not a achievement hound or a treasure collector, so for me once I beat it on the hardest level (which wouldn't take long) I am done.

I just can't justify $65 for that experience.

COD4 on the other hand seems like a steal at $65.

The problem for me is that their is no lasting appeal for me. I am not a achievement hound or a treasure collector, so for me once I beat it on the hardest level (which wouldn't take long) I am done.

I just can't justify $65 for that experience.

COD4 on the other hand seems like a steal at $65.

And I'm the opposite, I'm about the treasure collection and single player experience. This is right up my alley.

COD4 has a very short single player campaign but vast online. I'm not into online play that much so I can't justify $65 for COD4.

You have the game already? Is it out early? I know you got COD4 before everyone else...Maybe I just don't pay enough attention to release dates.

Same way I got COD4 - friend got it early. Posted a few pics (http://avspics.blogspot.com) for you guys

And I'm the opposite, I'm about the treasure collection and single player experience. This is right up my alley.

COD4 has a very short single player campaign but vast online. I'm not into online play that much so I can't justify $65 for COD4.

Same boat here, man...

Love single player games...pass on multiplayer.

Same boat here, man...

Love single player games...pass on multiplayer.

Same here. Multiplayer isn't that exciting to me. No wonder I haven't picked up COD4 yet. I'm sure I will eventually though.

Cool stuff adams828. I'll add a link to your webpage in the first post.

My one complaint so far does involve the weapons.. I can kill a guy in less shots with a pistol than an AK-47?Are people still complaining about this? Really? It's been said a million times before, but this is a convention that nearly every weapon shooting game uses (FPSs, TPSs, etc., etc.). This is gameplay design 101 for developers. In video games, a pistol is nearly always more powerful than an automatic (or semi-automatic) weapon shot-for-shot. If this weren't the case, there'd be absolutely no reason for the pistol. This sort of weapon balance is especially key in online multiplayer games.

I know it's a shock, but games are not real, folks.

Check around for Uncharted tomorrow. Some EB/GS stores have been telling people they'd have it on Friday.

Picking up the game tommorrow. :)

^^^ Where at?

Gamestop here in Florida.

Online EB/GS says it "Ships on 11/15" now that doesn't mean it will be in stores on the 16th, correct?

(JUST CHANGED FROM 11/16 - that's VERY interesting)


Quick Edit: I don't trust what my local GS would tell me, but I just got off the phone and when i asked when it would be available the salesperson said "Hmmmm...well it is showing that we will have it tomorrow. That doesn't sound right. You better call before you make a trip down here."

Online EB/GS says it "Ships on 11/15" now that doesn't mean it will be in stores on the 16th, correct?

(JUST CHANGED FROM 11/16 - that's VERY interesting)


Quick Edit: I don't trust what my local GS would tell me, but I just got off the phone and when i asked when it would be available the salesperson said "Hmmmm...well it is showing that we will have it tomorrow. That doesn't sound right. You better call before you make a trip down here."

Well, they have changed that date at least 3 times now, so maybe it will be available tomorrow. Would be SWEET if it was and would ruin what was going to be a productive weekend...LOL.

Gamestop here in Florida.

Did you preorder/reserve it and they called you? I'd love to play it this weekend. Where abouts in Florida?

I picked my copy up today. This game is a lot of fun. The demo is mainly shooting, but there is more to the game than that. So far there is treasure hunting and you have to solve puzzles to get on to the next part of the level. It's definitely a thinking game and not just another shooter.

The problem for me is that their is no lasting appeal for me. I am not a achievement hound or a treasure collector, so for me once I beat it on the hardest level (which wouldn't take long) I am done.

I just can't justify $65 for that experience.

COD4 on the other hand seems like a steal at $65.

Get lost xbot...we don't need your rrd here. Go back to your Galo...fps is all you get on your xbox2.

Get lost xbot...we don't need your rrd here. Go back to your Galo...fps is all you get on your xbox2.You're way out of line man. Save that stuff for the GameFAQs fourms please.

Just a heads up. But there is a brand new demo (potentially different level than the US demo) of Uncharted on the Japanese PSN.

I'm downloading right now, so I can't say 100 percent. However, the screens for the demo show a different level and the size is almost 400MB smaller than the US demo. There's almost no way it could be the same level. So, check it out if your interested.

You're way out of line man. Save that stuff for the GameFAQs fourms please.

Way out of line indeed.

At any rate, I just got back from a Target in the Minneapolis area with a fresh copy of Uncharted. Can't wait!!! Will post impressions tomorrow.

Just bought one off EBay from my trusty seller of fine wares.

Looks to ship out tomorrow or Monday.(need time with AC)

Had some Paypal cash, love using that over my debit card.

Hopefully I will be done with Assassin's Creed by mid-next week...:rolleyes:

Somebody who has the game says the game looks better than the demo:

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d80/userfriendly420/DSC02498.jpg
http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d80/userfriendly420/DSC02497.jpg

The textures are amazing.

Anybody find this in the S.F. Bay Area today?

A beautiful game in a lot of respects.

One thing, though, is it has very poor collision detection...I hope that gets fixed in the final game...

Ok I got a surprise today when gamestop called me saying I can pickup the game tommrow.The gamestop automated message system called me and let me know.So I called up the gamestop where I have the game pre ordered thinking it was some mistake.But nope they confirmed for me that I can pickup the game tommrow.

Cant wait to pickup and play the game tommrow night and this weekend.

I live in San Diego CA.

Wow. Just got the game tonight. So awesome. If you liked the demo, you'll love the full game. I was also happy to see that there was a difficulty level beyond "hard" (the highest on the demo).

There is some texture pop-in during some area loads, but otherwise it's every bit as stunning as the demo.

The voice acting and mo-cap work is incredible. The facial lighting is a little shimmery looking, but not nearly as oily as Stranglehold.

Having played the demo about three dozen times, I wanted to jump right into the game, but I had to wait through a bunch of early cinematics. They're cool and all, but you can't play during them. The section in the demo is where the action really picks up.

Just a heads up. But there is a brand new demo (potentially different level than the US demo) of Uncharted on the Japanese PSN.

I'm downloading right now, so I can't say 100 percent. However, the screens for the demo show a different level and the size is almost 400MB smaller than the US demo. There's almost no way it could be the same level. So, check it out if your interested.So I take it there was nothing new? Or maybe it's so amazing he can't stop playing. :)

So I take it there was nothing new? Or maybe it's so amazing he can't stop playing. :)

I'm about halfway done downloading. I'll report back shortly.

Blazing Angels 2 is also up but I need to figure out what to delete first.. (dam 20B)

gamestop shows it as "shipping". I was so close to buying it but realized that assassin's creed (rental) will be coming on Friday. With COD4 taking way too much of my time and AC here this weekend, I can wait a couple days for Uncharted to come as a rental. Then i'll just keep it and save 20bones.

So I take it there was nothing new? Or maybe it's so amazing he can't stop playing. :)

Yeah, unfortunately it was the same level. Nothing really changed, although I could swear they through a few more enemies in on this one.

I still don't understand how made this demo 400MB less than the US one though. It still contains the cinema and everything. It doesn't make any sense.

Heh, the simple answer is that Americans are overweight, even in their software.

Yup, the same as far as I could tell. I only climbed up the first waterfall.

I still don't understand how made this demo 400MB less than the US one though. It still contains the cinema and everything. It doesn't make any sense.Does it have all of the multiple language tracks (eight or so) of the US demo? That'd be my first guess.

Well, I've played for about 5 hours tonight and all I can say is that this game deserves Game of the Year honors in my opinion. I haven't had this much fun playing through a single player campaign in a long time. The story is great, the characters are great and the gameplay is just flat out fun. The thing is so beautiful looking that half the time you're looking around the environment rather than doing what you are supposed to be doing. You can always tell because a hint pops up because the game thinks you're lost...LOL. It is visually stunning. Water looks real.

The gameplay is fantastic because it's simple. But don't confuse simple with easy or boring, because it is far from it. I played for 5 hours straight tonight because I couldn't put it down. You HAVE to know what happens next. There are chapters where you just laugh out loud because you are having so much fun. I had a buddy stop by and look at it and we sat here like two little school girls giggling at all the cool stuff that was going on.

I could gush for paragraph after paragraph about the game but the bottom line is that as PS3 owners you owe it to yourselves to own this game and play the hell out of it. Naughty Dog deserves a massive thumbs up because Uncharted is truly a masterpiece (at least 5 hours in it is). I already want to go back and start over because there are things I saw that just made me look at my display in awe. I probably won't be this glowy with a game again until MGS4 finally hits. I wouldn't be surprised if I'm still playing through Uncharted for the 15th time to keep me busy until then, either. GET IT.

^^^ Glad to hear it!

I'm a huge movie buff so I reall dig the cinematic presentation that Uncharted appears to have. With such high quality visuals, writing and music, ect it really looks like a movie that you can play. I can overlook the fact that as a game it may be a little short, because as a movie, it's actually quite BIG.

We have already seen the begining of this in many other games, but rarely has it been done this well.

Is this the future of Hollywood?

Big time scripts, music, actors going to videogames?

Why not?

<snip>.
Great review! I should have my copy tomorrow.

I'm a huge movie buff so I reall dig the cinematic presentation that Uncharted appears to have. With such high quality visuals, writing and music, ect it really looks like a movie that you can play. I can overlook the fact that as a game it may be a little short, because as a movie, it's actually quite BIG.

We have already seen the begining of this in many other games, but rarely has it been done this well.

Is this the future of Hollywood?

Big time scripts, music, actors going to videogames?

Why not?

It is a very cinematic experience. Naughty Dog wasn't kidding when they said they took inspiration from the old action serials of the 40's and 50's. What's so cool is that it really has that vibe to it with the nice polished visuals. It's a good old fashioned treasure huntin', kick some pirate-ass and maybe fall in love on the way kind of story. It has a very nostalgic feel to it, which I love.

As to your point, DK, I don't think it's necessarily the future of Hollywood, but I do think that games are playing a bigger and bigger role in what kind of films do get made. Uncharted will no doubt make a fabulous film someday if Naughty Dog is willing to hand over the characters and the story to someone. But the revenue stream simply isn't there yet for developers to be able to afford what someone like Tom Hanks would charge to lend his voice to something. Budgets are already astronomically high with next-gen production, the expense of an A-list start could break the bank in most instances. Not saying it won't happen, but I wouldn't look for it to become the norm any time soon. Each medium has their place as we've learned time and time again (ahem, The Wizard).

Well, I've played for about 5 hours tonight and all I can say is that this game deserves Game of the Year honors in my opinion. I haven't had this much fun playing through a single player campaign in a long time. The story is great, the characters are great and the gameplay is just flat out fun. The thing is so beautiful looking that half the time you're looking around the environment rather than doing what you are supposed to be doing. You can always tell because a hint pops up because the game thinks you're lost...LOL. It is visually stunning. Water looks real.

The gameplay is fantastic because it's simple. But don't confuse simple with easy or boring, because it is far from it. I played for 5 hours straight tonight because I couldn't put it down. You HAVE to know what happens next. There are chapters where you just laugh out loud because you are having so much fun. I had a buddy stop by and look at it and we sat here like two little school girls giggling at all the cool stuff that was going on.

I could gush for paragraph after paragraph about the game but the bottom line is that as PS3 owners you owe it to yourselves to own this game and play the hell out of it. Naughty Dog deserves a massive thumbs up because Uncharted is truly a masterpiece (at least 5 hours in it is). I already want to go back and start over because there are things I saw that just made me look at my display in awe. I probably won't be this glowy with a game again until MGS4 finally hits. I wouldn't be surprised if I'm still playing through Uncharted for the 15th time to keep me busy until then, either. GET IT.

Dammit instantpop, your review is going to cost me 65 bucks. I may not wait for the rental now. :mad:

Dammit instantpop, your review is going to cost me 65 bucks. I may not wait for the rental now. :mad:

Yeah I was just thinking the same thing.

Machines - did you feel the same about the demo? Cause I got to tell you, I was a little disappointed in the demo. The controls and movements felt clunky to me. The graphics were incredible but there was just something about it that wasn't just right for me. Perhaps it was much slower than the COD4 I had been playing right before it :confused: But I wanted badly to like this game when I first started seeing the videos for it

I can't put my finger on it, but this game's atmosphere and music reminds me of Indiana Jones (duh) and wait for it.............The Rocketeer, lol. I don't know why with the latter. Maybe because I get a 50s/60s vibe which is fine by me.

But anyway, I played it for about 30 minutes. The graphics are definately improved over the demo. I can't get over some of the textures in this game. I guess BR really did pull through when it comes to streaming textures. I don't want to sound like a fanboy, but you've read my posts, then you'd know I've criticized the PS3 on numerous occassions, but this is the most technically impressive game I've seen so far.

Indiana Jones is my all-time favorite film series. I'm glad that this title captures some of the essence of those flicks, including the "everyman" attitude of the hero.

Yeah I was just thinking the same thing.

Machines - did you feel the same about the demo? Cause I got to tell you, I was a little disappointed in the demo. The controls and movements felt clunky to me. The graphics were incredible but there was just something about it that wasn't just right for me. Perhaps it was much slower than the COD4 I had been playing right before it :confused: But I wanted badly to like this game when I first started seeing the videos for it

I did like the demo. It's the main thing that brought Uncharted fully on to my radar, so take my glowing review for what it is worth. I didn't truly compare the two versions so I can't really tell you if anything is improved (I deleted the demo as soon as the disc went in). All I can say is that I haven't had this much playing a game in a LONG time. I haven't sat and played a single player game for 5 hours straight since I finished Snake Eater. There's just something about it. Like I said, it's not complicated. The joy comes from the simple gameplay. The enemy AI is superb (better than the demo in that regard). I've had my ass handed to me several times by a gang of pirates.

But for me it's the story and the "feel" of the game that just suck me right in. As I said in my previous post, it feels nostalgic. And the story, however basic, is so well executed that you just love it.

It's a perfect mix, in my opinion, of shooting and platforming. If there was one complaint I had to muster it'd be that I wish they'd force you to fist-fight more. Up to this point, every enemy encounter has been in droves so fisticuffs have been on the back burner so far - but I have used them in desparate situations.

I'm not the kind of guy who likes to watch movies more than once or play through games more than once, but Uncharted is going to get another playthrough immediately when I am done. There are just too many moments where I was sitting on my couch absolutely amazed by some of the stuff I was looking at.

If you're on the fence, definitely rent it. I think the demo falls short only in the aspect that you don't get sucked into caring about the characters in such a short amount of time. If you're basing your judgement soley on gameplay, then the full game is very much like the demo, but I don't think that is a bad thing. Every PS3 owner owes it to themself to at least rent it to see what can be done with our console. I hope Naughty Dog is hard at work on Uncharted 2!!!

Well if you think about it, an adventurer would use his firearm before resorting to fisticuffs whenever possible. Who can forget the classic scene of Indiana Jones entering a Middle Eastern courtyard looking for his girl Marion, only to come up against a huge sword weilding thug ready for a brawl. Instead of going toe-to-toe, Indy whips out his pistol and blows him away to the cheers of the crowd. I love that scene :).

Dammit instantpop, your review is going to cost me 65 bucks. I may not wait for the rental now. :mad:

Its funny Machines, but i was going to send you a message to ask how you liked the graphics and game play. I am not a big fan of these type of games but since blacksite area 51 is delayed, i may get it. COD4 is fun but the action sometimes gives me a headache and i need a slower paced game. How many hours of play will this game give you on "normal" settings?????

I've posted my impressions of the game here: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=940082

(warning:slight spoilers!)

Yo? Is this out? I mean if GS did release it a week early, I need a copy!!

Yo? Is this out? I mean if GS did release it a week early, I need a copy!!

Gents,

The game is OUT!!! I Just got back from GS with my copy. I didn't reserve it either, I just called the nearest one by me (NYC). Once they confirmed, I went and got my copy.

Can't wait to get home....

I called at 10:30 two GS locations in my area. One was sold out already, the other had six copies left. I hightailed it over and used my 10% coupon and picked it up. (power went out in my building - I saw it as a sign I should go and buy this game while I can)....

Gonna stop by the pub and have a few beers after work, then play this bad boy tonight!

Yep, got my copy from GS this morning. Played through a few chapters. Gorgeous game. And it says 720p on the back of the box, but does upscale to 1080. Also you can set your own audio format (DTS instead of DD) within the game menus as well as set the center speaker for large or small. I love all the details. And having played the demo, feel the full game looks even better - textures and lighting are stunning.

Its funny Machines, but i was going to send you a message to ask how you liked the graphics and game play. I am not a big fan of these type of games but since blacksite area 51 is delayed, i may get it. COD4 is fun but the action sometimes gives me a headache and i need a slower paced game. How many hours of play will this game give you on "normal" settings?????

About 8-10 hours. I'm going to hunt this puppy down right now.

Yep, got my copy from GS this morning. Played through a few chapters. Gorgeous game. And it says 720p on the back of the box, but does upscale to 1080. Also you can set your own audio format (DTS instead of DD) within the game menus as well as set the center speaker for large or small. I love all the details. And having played the demo, feel the full game looks even better - textures and lighting are stunning.

Does this game allow for you to process 5.1 DD stereo into 7.1 stereo? I heard in the Amp section that a guy with this game could not get his AVR to process 5.1 into 7.1 but he can do this with BR and other movies, just not PS3 games????? Has anyone with the game tried this????

You should be able to choose 7.1 or 5.1 from the menu. As long as the 7.1 boxes are unchecked on your PS3 Audio Settings you can Matrix it. Otherwise, check the 7.1 boxes for true 7.1.

omg!! Anyone on the West coast? AZ preferably with the game? :D

Someone in another thread said it was available in San Diego, CA.

avaiable here in FL

omg!! Anyone on the West coast? AZ preferably with the game? :D

I called a few EB games locally with no luck.

T-a-r-g-e-t

I called a few EB games locally with no luck.

:( How close are you to PHX?

I can try one around Chandler, Mesa, Tempe, Gilbert area...

T-a-r-g-e-t

are you sure about that ?It doesn't show avaible at target online.

Is there a coupon anywhere ?

are you sure about that ?It doesn't show avaible at target online.

Is there a coupon anywhere ?

Very sure since that's where I bought mine yesterday. Don't trust Target's web site...it sucks.

Very sure since that's where I bought mine yesterday. Don't trust Target's web site...it sucks.

I stopped at a Target today around 12pm in Pittsburgh and it still wasn't available.

Just got my copy at gamestop in S. Florida.

Gamestop in OKC called me - my copy is ready for pickup! Going to be a fun weekend!

T-a-r-g-e-t

I'll be in the states tomorrow. Hopefully the Target in Watertown has it!
:)

Just pick this up....and wow my PS3 just became an interactive movie game machine....Finally a game worth owning. And I own my PS3 for exclusives. This game is the reason to get a PS3.

:( How close are you to PHX?

I can try one around Chandler, Mesa, Tempe, Gilbert area...

I called the ones at 48th st. and Ray and Stapley and Baseline.

I went and picked up my copy around noon. Also picked up COD4. I need to go back and get Assassin's Creed and Lego Star Wars.

That's the first time there were at least 4 games I wanted to buy in one day. :eek:


I've played through the game up until the point where the demo begins. So far, it's amazing. My wife (first time typing that after the wedding and honeymoon!:eek:) has even enjoyed watching the game. A total hit.

For any doubters the ingame graphics do appear to be better than what was displayed in the demo. The lighting and shadows are awesome. Lots of fun, lots of dialogue in game, very cool stuff.

It's kind of funny they picked a quote from the worst review for the back of the box. It's not even that good of a quote. I guess they had to take what was available at the time.

It's kind of funny they picked a quote from the worst review for the back of the box. It's not even that good of a quote. I guess they had to take what was available at the time.

What? :confused:

What? :confused:

Back of the box:

"Uncharted is about as cutting edge of a game as we've seen on the PS3 thus far - Gamepro"


Agreed.

Back of the box:

"Uncharted is about as cutting edge of a game as we've seen on the PS3 thus far - Gamepro"


Agreed.


Ah, I see. Probably a true statement judging by the demo and peoples' initial reactions, but yeah, that's a pretty vague comment.

Gamestop here had Uncharted. I bought their last copy.

Gamestop here had Uncharted. I bought their last copy.
I was able to get it at a GS in Tulsa at around 8:15. They seemed to have plenty on hand.

Of course, I won't get to play it until Sunday, since my SO only today gets to start on Super Mario Galaxy, leaving me with no TV to play it on. :(

This game 100% meets the hype so far. Such an awesome blend of action flick cinematics and top tier graphics... and I'm only on the second chapter. The rumble DS3 is nicely implemented without being over done, and the overall polish of the title makes it truly a must have title for just about any gamer. My wife is as non-gamer as they come, and even she was interested in the story+presentation enough to sit and watch as I played (which NEVER happens, lol).

I'm playing on Hard difficulty first time through with the hints turned off. I don't want any hand-holding as I go through the game. If you are on the fence in any way, you owe it to yourself to take a chance and pick it up.

Just got to chapter 3.. man this game is gorgeous! The demo definitley didn't show off the best of the game at all graphically. I'm thinking the demo was to show the action portion. The first part where you are exploring the jungle is simply breathtaking, saw a couple of monkeys as well!

And yes there is grass that does react to your movements, not sure if the demo had any like the final game does.

I thought this game supporrted 1080I? It says on the back 720P

Damn! Is all I got to say... THE VISUALS!!!

I thought this game supporrted 1080I? It says on the back 720P

If your HDTV only accepts 1080i for 1080P output, it will switch to 1080P. Otherwise it will default to 720P.

Incredible game. I'm having a blast. Anybody know how many "chapters" there are?

This game is pure fun! The only reason I stopped playing is that chapter 5 is kicking my ass on hard mode. The big fortress room knee-deep in water where guys keep dropping in from the walls. I'll give my hands a rest and have another go at it.

I thought this game supporrted 1080I? It says on the back 720P

It does, ..but its half-rez 1080p, something like 920x1080 I think. Played on 1080i set and 720p projector, both look equally decent.

PS: I read this in another forum, the rez thing I mean.

This game is pure fun! The only reason I stopped playing is that chapter 5 is kicking my ass on hard mode. The big fortress room knee-deep in water where guys keep dropping in from the walls. I'll give my hands a rest and have another go at it.

I am stuck at the exact same place also on hard difficulty. Stupid shotgun pirates :(

Incredible game. I'm having a blast. Anybody know how many "chapters" there are?



I read on the Gamespot forums that there are 22.

I've gotten to chapter 4 so far. This game is so much fun. :)

I read on the Gamespot forums that there are 22.

I've gotten to chapter 4 so far. This game is so much fun. :)

wow the game is much longer than I expected in that case. I am just on chapter 5 and I spent 4 hours so far. (1 hour of that was spent just staring at how awesome the gfx is at various places)

i might get Uncharted for Christmas...

wow the game is much longer than I expected in that case. I am just on chapter 5 and I spent 4 hours so far. (1 hour of that was spent just staring at how awesome the gfx is at various places)Not just that, but as I'm sure you've all noticed, there are tons of unlockables and medals to earn and treasures to find!

I read on the playstation.com forums that there are 22 chapters.

I don't want the game to end, think I'm on chapter 11 or 12. Only playing on normal, but will definitely turn around and play through again. More shooting, less exploring puzzle solving in the middle levels. I hope they keep making more, excellent new franchise for ps3.

I just started playing last night. Man, this is what I'm talking about! This game so far has it all, I don't want to play it too much because I don't want it to end. Sick huh? I bought Assassin's Creed as well and so far I'm really digging that as well. Although if I had to pick (which luckily for me I don't) I'd say Uncharted it's like being read a good adventure story.

I just started playing last night. Man, this is what I'm talking about! This game so far has it all, I don't want to play it too much because I don't want it to end. Sick huh? I bought Assassin's Creed as well and so far I'm really digging that as well. Although if I had to pick (which luckily for me I don't) I'd say Uncharted it's like being read a good adventure story.
Actually, the story is the only thing I really don't like about the game. It's kinda typical and blah. Admittedly, I'm not that far into the game (chapter 5), but so far, it's not that engrossing.

Otherwise, the game is awesome though. Looks great (except for some framerate drop and tearing, and it seems to suffer from that texture loading issue Gears of War had), and sounds better than anygame I've ever played, I think. Gameplay is solid, reminds me of Gears of War mixed with Tomb Raider.

I just started playing last night. Man, this is what I'm talking about! This game so far has it all, I don't want to play it too much because I don't want it to end. Sick huh? I bought Assassin's Creed as well and so far I'm really digging that as well. Although if I had to pick (which luckily for me I don't) I'd say Uncharted it's like being read a good adventure story.

I know exactly what you mean. I absolutely LOVE the story so far. It's better than the majority of movies released as of yet. The three principal characters are all distinctly enjoyable to watch and listen too.

I haven't finished it yet but am already looking forward to the sequel.

This game is pure fun! The only reason I stopped playing is that chapter 5 is kicking my ass on hard mode. The big fortress room knee-deep in water where guys keep dropping in from the walls. I'll give my hands a rest and have another go at it.

I'm playing on hard as well.. and that was the first part in the whole game where I was really starting to get p*ssed. Tried taking cover, charging forward, whatever. Finally after about 10 tries I got it.

Not just that, but as I'm sure you've all noticed, there are tons of unlockables and medals to earn and treasures to find!

Yep and all in 3d, which might be in HOME also :D

Pimp out my place with some El Dorado treasure ;)

Sure there is some tearing, and texture pop-in. But who really cares? The beauty is there... The visuals are impressive, belivable, and most of all the story is top notch.

AI - The whole idea of an adventure on an island is what drivers the story. The characters are very well developed. I'm glad this is out 4 days early!

GameStop on Eliot is where i picked mine up! Good luck!

!!!

Uncharted: Drake's Fortune
Jeep Gameplay HD:
http://www.gametrailers.com/player/28044.html

Yep and all in 3d, which might be in HOME also :D

Pimp out my place with some El Dorado treasure ;)

Sure there is some tearing, and texture pop-in. But who really cares? The beauty is there... The visuals are impressive, belivable, and most of all the story is top notch.

AI - The whole idea of an adventure on an island is what drivers the story. The characters are very well developed. I'm glad this is out 4 days early!

GameStop on Eliot is where i picked mine up! Good luck!

The tearing is indeed there but I havent seen anything as bad as what I saw on those early X-Box games. I haven't seen much pop-in as I am only on Chapter 5. The visuals are impressive and the game is just all around FANTASTIC. If the PS3 keeps more games like this coming out......OHH BOY

!!!

Uncharted: Drake's Fortune
Jeep Gameplay HD:
http://www.gametrailers.com/player/28044.htmlThis kind of thing has been in a lot of games but It's never been done so well. Best chase ever!

I'd avoid watching this stuff though if you haven't played the game yet.

Yep and all in 3d, which might be in HOME also :D
That would be cool. The detail on those is amazing. I was just expecting a little picture or something.

!!!

Uncharted: Drake's Fortune
Jeep Gameplay HD:
http://www.gametrailers.com/player/28044.html

I just finished this part. It looks and sounds amazing. My wife walked in to complain about the volume, and then stood and watched the entire chase. :D

She said, "That was pretty cool. Now, turn it down." :)

I just finished it on normal. I really liked it. Great graphics, solid controls, and I liked the story. I can't wait for the sequel.

^^was it long?...

I just finished this part. It looks and sounds amazing. My wife walked in to complain about the volume, and then stood and watched the entire chase. :D

She said, "That was pretty cool. Now, turn it down." :)

Obey soilder ;)

Edit: I heard the game is about 10-15hrs. Then again, there is replay value.

Just finished it on Hard.. I'd say it took me about 11 hours?

Found 40 treasures and got 420 out of 100 medal points.. guess I'll just have to play it again! =p

(Okay, perhaps some COD4 for a change a pace first... or maybe Ratchet.. aggggggh too many games!!)

I'm playing on hard as well.. and that was the first part in the whole game where I was really starting to get p*ssed. Tried taking cover, charging forward, whatever. Finally after about 10 tries I got it.On hard setting, you really have to choose your cover areas well. Cover that's in room corners or hallways is useful. Move to different cover if enemies come from a different direction, otherwise they'll flank you. I figured that out when I got to this same area. Helpful strategy later in the game!

I just finished it on normal. I really liked it. Great graphics, solid controls, and I liked the story. I can't wait for the sequel.

can't wait for the sequel ?!?!

the game isn't even officially out until monday. you are in for one hell of a long wait my friend.

Is this game better than Assassin's Creed? I've gone through COD4 3 times now and need a new game. I can pick up Assassin's Creed for $25 but may buy Uncharted instead. I played the Uncharted demo for about 15 minutes and it was pretty good although a little repetitive with shooting people.

Is this game better than Assassin's Creed? I've gone through COD4 3 times now and need a new game. I can pick up Assassin's Creed for $25 but may buy Uncharted instead. I played the Uncharted demo for about 15 minutes and it was pretty good although a little repetitive with shooting people.

How can you get AC for 25 dollars?

Is this game better than Assassin's Creed?There's a thread on this very question:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=940261

"Better" is obviously a matter of personal taste. But the PS3 version of Assassin's Creed has been locking up a lot on people, so I'd wait on it until Ubi or Sony does something about the issue. If you want to get something right away, go for Uncharted.

The last couple of levels of uncharted was some of the best gaming experience I ever had. It was seriously mindblowing.

gah! i can't wait to play this game. i have it pre-ordered at amazon.ca because i got it for 49.99 w/free shipping, but they are slow with pre-orders. i'm tempted to just buy it for the full 59.99 price at a local store.

Great interview (http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=87721) with one of ND's main directors using questions by random fans:

Tom Super Moderating Hero Bramwell: Hello everyone! Evan's ready to start, and will get us underway by telling you all a little about himself. Evan! Tell us all a little about yourself!
Evan Wells: Sure. I'm the Co-President of Naughty Dog and my background comes from the design side of the industry. I started with Naughty Dog back on Crash 3 as the Lead Designer. Before that I worked at Crystal Dynamics on the Gex games. And my first job in the industry was working on ToeJam and Earl on the Sega Genesis.

18:01:53 -

Killerbee asks: Was Uncharted a deliberate attempt by Naughty Dog to move away from the cartoony/comic past of the Crash and Jak games? Is this sense of realism something you think appeals more to current PS3 owners versus, say the PS2 or Wii?
Evan Wells: Yes, it was a deliberate decision. We wanted to make a game that took full advantage of the hardware and we felt if we stuck with what we knew and made another Jak game that we wouldn't have pushed ourselves hard enough and would have ended up with something mediocre or just okay.

18:04:02 -

WanderingIssun asks: Nathan's animations in Uncharted are simply amazing. They look natural and do not feel akward like so many other games in the same genre. Do you think there is potential to improve on what you achieved with this game?
Evan Wells: Absolutely. We really are only getting started with our understanding of the PS3 and more importantly the programmers and the animators that worked on this game have learned so much. It's going to be great to be able to go into production on our next game with all of the knowledge that we gained from this project already under our belts.

18:06:19 -

Grogmonkey asks: Given the somewhat disappointing critical reaction (compared to initial expectations) of other high-profile PS3 exclusives like Lair and Heavenly Sword, did you and your team feel under more pressure to ensure that you delivered a truely console-defining experience with Uncharted?
Evan Wells: I feel that most of the pressure we feel at Naughty Dog comes from within. Everybody is very passionate about what they do and nobody here is willing to settle for anything mediocre. Our co-workers pushed each other and we weren't really feeling too much pressure from outside.

18:08:02 -

kissthestick asks: Any chances of a Jak PS3 game?
Evan Wells: Sure. Everybody here would love to do a Jak game on the PS3. However, I'm not sure about the timing. We want to stick with only working on one game at a time to maintain our focus. Everybody is taking a much deserved vacation right now and we will decide what we're doing next when people get back.

18:09:49 -

Inquisitor asks: Would you ever consider working on a PSN title?
Evan Wells: I think the PSN has opened up a lot of interesting opportunities for us as well as many others. I think it could come in handy during some of the transitional roll over periods between games if there hasn't been enough preprodution work done to get started on the next big project. I think it would be fun and definitely something we're interested in.

18:11:04 -

JediMasterMalik asks: What has been the most influential game of the last few years to you personally as a designer?
Evan Wells: Well it's becoming somewhat of a cliche answer, but I'd have to say ICO. That game has so much style and heart that I think it has influenced the entire industry.

18:13:32 -

spadge asks: In terms of meeting expectations, what matters most; Developer, Publisher or Consumer?
Evan Wells: Absolutely the consumer. It's something that we are always asking ourselves... "How is this going to affect the play experience or the player?" We put a lot of emphasis on our animation system and pretty early on we had some great looking stuff. But it felt like ****. It took months and months of tweaking and iterating to finally get something that looked and FELT good.

18:16:08 -

myiagros asks: Uncharted seems to be the overall name of the series with Drake's Fortune the subtitle. Does this mean that future titles in the series would centre around a protaganist other than Nathan Drake?
Evan Wells: Definitely not. The subtitle was supposed to have the double meaning of Drake referring to Sir Francis Drake or Nathan Drake and the Fortune could mean either wealth/money or destiny. We thought we were being pretty deep :)

18:18:30 -

krudster asks: If you could work with any film license, what would it be?
Evan Wells: That's a tough question. I really prefer to work on our own IP. The team has so much more passion when working on charcters and a universe that they created. And ultimately IPs created from within the video game industry have a much better track record of success. But if you insist, I'd have to say Die Hard. I love that movie.

18:21:34 -

ElNino9 asks: Was Nathan Drake based on any character in particular? He does look a lot like Frank Lampard.
Moderator informs Evan who Frank Lampard is.
Evan Wells: He was based on an amalgamation of many famous actors as well as some ordinary people. But we were driven largely by the concept art that our team created. In the end I've been told that he looks like no less than three dozen different people... from actors, to neighbors, to boyfriends, and now a football player! So I guess we succeeded in creating our everyman :)

18:23:33 -

Obli asks: How hard would it be to port Uncharted to the Xbox 360? I'm not just talking storage constraints (Blu-ray). Could Uncharted be faithfully recreated without the use of Cell?
Evan Wells: I won't say that it would be impossible, but it would be very difficult and we most certainly would have to make enough concessions that it would start to feel like a different game. One thing that would be particularly difficult would be keeping the game load-free. The HDD really came in handy and allowed us to have pretty big open levels with lots of detail.

18:26:05 -

Fernando asks: Have you considered tackling any genres Naughty Dog hasnt tried before, maybe a Survival horror, FPS, Racer?
Evan Wells: Well we have done a couple of racers. Don't forget CTR (one of my favorite games to have worked on) and Jak X! For a while we had some interest in doing a FPS, but it's such a crowded market and everybody it doing it so well now, I'm not sure the world needs our take on it. But we're always open to trying something new. We don't like things to get stale around here.

18:30:41 -

windflaw asks: One criticism I've heard levelled at Uncharted is that, given the high quality of its graphics and art direction, the physics in the game sometimes stands out as lacking (e.g. when objects hit the water). Given this observation (and by all means feel free to refute it), what are your thoughts on the place of physics in modern games, and do you feel that it generally contributes more to gameplay or aesthetics?
Evan Wells: In certain sandbox style games I think physics can contribute to gameplay. But in more structured/directed games like Uncharted I think physics are better left as aesthetics. For example, often, when something blows up you need it to end up in a predermined way so that you can use it to continue to traverse forward. In this case, you're better off just animating the physics. But I actually think that our physics engine is pretty good. Our ragdoll I think can stand up with the best of them especially as they interact and the dead bodies float on the water.

18:37:17 -

Shrike asks: Uncharted hasn't received quite the same amount of media attention/hype as a number of recent titles. In your experience, does hype help or hinder the development process?
Evan Wells: We were definitely in an awkward position. If I had to do it again, I'd certainly change a few things. The videogame industry is unique in that we are forced to show our unfinished product 10+ months (sometimes years) in advance of it being complete. There isn't a single other industry out there that does this. So with Uncharted, I think we ended up putting the game in people's hands a little bit earlier that we should have. Our control still wasn't as tight as it needed to be, and we knew that. But we had to get the hype started so we went for it anyway. Then we spent the next six months trying to convince journalists who got an early taste for it, that we had addressed this issues. Fortunately it all looks like it's turned out okay.

18:38:10 -

morriss asks: What aspect of the game are you least happy with and why?
Evan Wells: Well this is going to sound strange because it looks so nice, but I'd say the water. And not because there is anything wrong with it but very early in our design stages we wanted to do a lot more fluid dynamics that really affected gameplay. It was cut from the plan very early because of the technological challenges that it presented. But it's something that we want to take another stab at in a future title.

18:43:27 -

pjmaybe asks: As a developer, do Naughty Dog feel that optimising code to get rid of immersion-breaking anomalies like tearing etc are high on their list of priorities?
Evan Wells: Hah! I knew the screen tearing question was coming! We obviously take the look of the game very seriously and we want to create the most beautiful experience possible. So we walk a very fine line. We try to put as much on the screen as possible which of course has an impact on the framerate. If the game occasionally slips below 30FPS we have a choice to make... do you want to drop the framerate down to 20FPS or let the screen tear momentarily. We opted for the latter. It happens very infrequently and we feel that the increased number of polygons and effects that we can use outweighs the occasional artifact.

18:46:30 -

Phattso asks: Clearly Uncharted has been in development for quite a while, but there are some parallels between the combat/cover mechanics it offers (which are great, by the way) and those from last year's Gears of War. Was this a conscious effort to take what Epic did and hone it to perfection, or was it just a case of two separate development houses arriving at the same control scheme as a logical solution for similar gameplay/control requirements? Also, what's your favourite colour?
Evan Wells: We had been working on our cover taking mechanics for 6 or 8 months before we saw Gears. We were initially attracted to the idea after seeing it in Kill.Switch. We felt that it really helped create the feeling of being pinned down and we thought that would suit our pulp action/adventure genre nicely. Of course when Gears came out and we saw what a great job they did with it really raised the bar on what we had to achieve and we were definitely pushed to step our game up. And I like Green.

18:50:41 -

Inquisitor asks: Given the answer to [an earlier] question you are in agreement with Denis Dyack [of Silicon Knights]. Ideally games would not be shown till they are complete and would be held back once finished to allow for maketing?
Evan Wells: I don't know if I want to be compared to the guy who is suing Epic :) (actually I know Denis from back in the Crystal days). But I'm not sure if I know how we can or should change the way things are done, I just think if I could go back in time on Uncharted, the first few public showings of the game I would have kept the controller in my hands and given demos instead of handing it over to journalists. Early in development it's sometimes easier for the designer to show the game off and make it look good instead of somebody who hasn't had time to practice with the still far from final control.

18:54:06 -

NewYork asks: Drake's Fortune has a more mature feel to previous Naughty Dog games. Is this game aimed at people who've grown up with Crash and Jak, or are you expecting an entirely new audience?
Evan Wells: I hope that Naughty Dog fans keep following our games. We as developers are maturing (or at least we like to think so) so our interests are changing and evolving as I'm sure our fans' are. I also hope that we are reaching a wider audience with Uncharted due to the deep and involving story and characters. It passed the "girlfriend" test with my wife... she and her friend were totally engrossed watching me play it when I brought it home one night. It was like they were watching a movie and didn't want to get off the couch to go to the bathroom :)

18:55:51 -

SeesThroughAll asks: Is Uncharted going to be patched for Home goodies, when that comes?
Evan Wells: We really hope so. We included our Medal points with the expectaion that we could attach those to Home eventually. We are talking with the Home development team and looking forward to working with the SDK when it's available.

18:56:32 -

morriss asks: How do we know if anything you've said today is true and if I find out you've lied, what do I win?
Evan Wells: How do you know I'm even Evan?

18:59:24 -

woodnotes asks: Do you expect to release a game every year this generation like in the PS2 Jak days? Or do the additional development costs and time mean we may be waiting somewhat longer this gen between ND releases?
Evan Wells: That's hard to say right now. Even on the PS2 we took two years to develop Jak 1 and 2. It wasn't until later in the generation that we had enough tech built up that we could get the production down to one year. I imagine things will be similar this time around.

19:00:27 -

mcwildcard asks: Any chance of a 'Hat and Whip' patch in future for us Indy fans? ;)
Evan Wells: We have a lot of great unlockable costumes, but no "Hat and Whip" (that's the truth!) For the truly hardcore we have a treat. If you collect all 1000 medal points you can unlock "Doughnut Drake" and I won't spoil what that is, but it's totally worth it.

19:04:37 -

SeesThroughAll asks: What did you think of the Manhunt 2 ban? Do you think that the violent nature of this game in particular justified the degree of censorship (even gameplay mechanics were altered)?
Evan Wells: I don't think that video games should be treated differently than other forms of media or entertainment. I think there is a place in this world for titles that should only be played by those over 18. Our problem is right now is that we [in America] don't have any retailers who are willing to sell those games, therefore you end up "banning" the game by giving it such a rating. However, I really don't see the appeal of the game and I really do think they are just using the shock factor to try to sell a mediocre (at best) game. I would much prefer to see somebody make something with a little more substance that still pushed the artistic boundaries of our industry.

19:05:41 -

ElNino9 asks: Have you got anything planned for the PSP?
Evan Wells: Not right now. And honestly I'm not sure any time soon. We want to focus our attention and technological efforts on one platfrom and one engine (the PS3 if that isn't clear).

19:07:40 -

mcwildcard asks: Why do you think other developers have seemingly struggled to get to grips with the PS3 dev kits, whilst Naughty Dog has managed to put together what appears to be a polished and seamless game, with no obvious technical faults?
Evan Wells: I don't think it's problems with the PS3. Next-gen game development is tricky business. I think you're seeing a lot of developers struggle with the Xbox as well. It just so happens that the 360 has been out there for more than a year longer and people have had more time to work with it.

19:09:01 -

Mugwum asks: Isn't it about time you gave up all this videogame nonsense and got a proper job?
Evan Wells: Mom? Is that you?

19:10:30 -

Mugwum asks: No, come on, do you still get that thing where people ask what you do, you explain, and they go "oh"?
Evan Wells: What I get is... That must be so much fun! You get to play games all day long! Of course that couldn't be further from the truth. Everybody is suprised to find out that we typically work 80-90 hour weeks for the last 6-12 months of a project!

19:11:32 -


Tom Super Moderating Hero Bramwell: Aaaand that seems like a good enough point at which to let Evan go. Anything to add Evan?
Evan Wells: Thanks for all of the really great questions! This was a lot of fun!

Great interview!

I played this game quite a while yesterday, and plan on doing it again today.

This is why I bought a PS3. This game captured the feel I had when I first played Resistance. I know there has been heaps of praise put on this game and it is well deserved.

I really hope ND concentrates on games like this.... I'm not a big fan of "cartoony" games - R&C is nice eye candy, but I can't see myself playing it. I was happy to see some of his comments about not doing a Jak game in the immediate future. That's just me though.

How can you get AC for 25 dollars?

Bestbuy Canada is selling COD4 and AC for $90. I already have COD4 and if I go back with my receipt, apparently I can get AC for the remainder of the price.

Great interview!

I played this game quite a while yesterday, and plan on doing it again today.

This is why I bought a PS3. This game captured the feel I had when I first played Resistance. I know there has been heaps of praise put on this game and it is well deserved.

I really hope ND concentrates on games like this.... I'm not a big fan of "cartoony" games - R&C is nice eye candy, but I can't see myself playing it. I was happy to see some of his comments about not doing a Jak game in the immediate future. That's just me though.
I enjoyed R&C a lot. I also enjoy Uncharted a lot.

They're both excellent games, and really only differ in the storyline and the visual style, along with a bit of difference in gameplay mechanics reflecting the visual differences.

IMO, it's a bit silly not to play a game because it looks "cartoony." You're just denying yourself an entertaining game. Whatever floats your boat, I suppose. (I don't shop at Wal-Mart, so some could certainly say I'm just denying myself convenience or low prices or whatever)

I really hope ND concentrates on games like this.... I'm not a big fan of "cartoony" games - R&C is nice eye candy, but I can't see myself playing it.Funny that you'd think Uncharted isn't cartoony! I totally disagree. It's very cartoony. It's just a different style of cartoon compared to R&C. Uncharted is more like G.I. Joe and R&C is more like a Warner Brothers cartoon.

Great interview!

I played this game quite a while yesterday, and plan on doing it again today.

This is why I bought a PS3. This game captured the feel I had when I first played Resistance. I know there has been heaps of praise put on this game and it is well deserved.

I really hope ND concentrates on games like this.... I'm not a big fan of "cartoony" games - R&C is nice eye candy, but I can't see myself playing it. I was happy to see some of his comments about not doing a Jak game in the immediate future. That's just me though.

I am also glad they will hopefully focus on a uncharted sequel instead of jak since I never got into jak games. But you will be missing out bigtime if you dont play ratchet. It is hands down one of the best games I played.

You've come a long way Naughty Dog. My first ND game, and my latest ND game.

http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e359/oddbodyAS2/uncharted/nd.jpg

Just finished it in 11 hours and 45 minutes on hard. Has anyone said WOW yet?! :) This one goes on my all-time list. One of the best gaming experiences I've had.

Besides all the amazing next-gen graphics and sound it's nice to see games like this and Heavenly Sword take characters and story telling to the next-gen level. It's interesting to note that both games were written primarily by women, Amy Henning for Uncharted and Rhianna Pratchett for HS.

Elena's maybe the best female game character ever.
I Actully felt a little bad fro her when she lost her camera.And how great is the friendly AI? Not once during the whole game did I have to give it a second thought. No getting in the way, no waiting for it to get unstuck from an obstacle, no spouting the same annoying phrases every 30 seconds.

I beat Uncharted. Best game of the year. One of the best games I've played in a long long time. The production values, seamless voice acting, wonderful plot all are woven together so well, along with the wonderful game play that it's just amazing. The only thing I'd say is poor is the boss battle at the end. Anyway PLAY THIS GAME please!! Seriously, this has to do well, it deserves to. I'd hate for this game to fade into oblivion.

Another beautiful shot. I wish I could get pictures like this off my set.

Source (http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showpost.php?p=8642178&postcount=8038)

http://i5.tinypic.com/80umg7p.jpg

what is the output resolution? The demo was 1080p, but what does the box say?

5/5 from gamer.tv

what is the output resolution? The demo was 1080p, but what does the box say?

720p/1080i are both viable resolutions.

Thanks for the interview! Now I'm curious what "Donught Drake" is.. but all 1000 medal points?!?!?

You've come a long way Naughty Dog. And how great is the friendly AI? Not once during the whole game did I have to give it a second thought. No getting in the way, no waiting for it to get unstuck from an obstacle, no spouting the same annoying phrases every 30 seconds.


Aint that the truth! she actually saved my ass twice which is a first in my 25 years of gaming.

Next to ICO and Shadow Of the Colossus! I'm not done yet, but I tend to sit and just stare the scenery! SG - I been trying to re-add you to my list but for some reason you reached your friend max level. I had issues with my account and was trying to add ya.

I really like this shot.
http://www.picgarage.net/images/ruliw_19847_879.jpeg

got this from EB on friday. spent a few hours and am stuck in the same spot as a few of you in Ch5... visuals are amazing on the LCD:D

My biggest gripe: I wish ammo was automatically picked up for the guns you have equipped at the moment. I hate when I've got a thousand corpses around, and I'm having to check carefully through all of them for extra ammo without accidentally swapping guns. That and the screen tearing is pretty bad. Still an amazing game so far (about 9 chapters in).

This game is a headshot fest- I love it. So far I've got 3 of the headshot achievements. I haven't even bothered with anything but the 9mm so far.

Here's the first TV spot. It's been running during the games on Fox today.

http://www.gametrailers.com/player/usermovies/132327.html

I'd like to see more gameplay but I love the ad. It captures the spirit of game perfectly.

Only 9 Chapters in so far but this game is amazing.

My biggest gripe: I wish ammo was automatically picked up for the guns you have equipped at the moment. I hate when I've got a thousand corpses around, and I'm having to check carefully through all of them for extra ammo without accidentally swapping guns. That and the screen tearing is pretty bad. Still an amazing game so far (about 9 chapters in).

Screen tearing? I didn't notice that much at all. Sure there were spots, but pretty bad seems like overkill. Heavenly Sword had far more screen tearing than Drake and it didn't bother me that much in that game. What kind of set up are you using? HDMI to my Pioneer looks great with hardly any noticeable tearing at all.

Screen tearing? I didn't notice that much at all. Sure there were spots, but pretty bad seems like overkill. Heavenly Sword had far more screen tearing than Drake and it didn't bother me that much in that game. What kind of set up are you using? HDMI to my Pioneer looks great with hardly any noticeable tearing at all.

The game tears whenever it is in danger of dropping before 30 FPS. I played the demo 3 times without any tearing issues at all. I did notice a little tearing when I was playing the game at my friend's house but it was pretty rare.

If the game occasionally slips below 30FPS we have a choice to make... do you want to drop the framerate down to 20FPS or let the screen tear momentarily. We opted for the latter

This game keeps getting better and better. I'm on L18 (played Hard from the start) and I don't want it to end.

One VERY cool feature I just unlocked... when you hit a certain amount of medals, you can unlock FAST mode. It is absolutely awesome! When you turn it on, you and everything else in the game move, jump and attack 20% faster (my estimate). This makes the game even more fluid and action packed than before. It isn't tough to get used to if you mastered the controls, but for the few who think Drake moves to slow this is definitely the option for them. Highly recommended!

One VERY cool feature I just unlocked... when you hit a certain amount of medals, you can unlock FAST mode. It is absolutely awesome! When you turn it on, you and everything else in the game move, jump and attack 20% faster (my estimate). This makes the game even more fluid and action packed than before. It isn't tough to get used to if you mastered the controls, but for the few who think Drake moves to slow this is definitely the option for them. Highly recommended!I might give that a try when I play through again on crushing. Slo-mo is really cool too. You probably wouldn't want to play the whole game that way but it really shows off the amazing animations. I haven't unlocked super slo-mo yet.

Just beat the game. This was hands down the best game I ever played. I would kill for a sequel at the moment.

I really like this shot.
http://www.picgarage.net/images/ruliw_19847_879.jpeg


Jesus mother'n mary. Would you look at the textures!

The game tears whenever it is in danger of dropping before 30 FPS. I played the demo 3 times without any tearing issues at all. I did notice a little tearing when I was playing the game at my friend's house but it was pretty rare.

how is that? this game run absolutely rock solid for me. you have a bad set up or a bad machine or both. this game is just about seamless. it is amazing how folks who own the ps3 have totally different game experiences with the same title. maybe I'm just lucky but my ps3 set up runs like a champ.

8.9 at gametrailers. only the SD video is up.
their main complaints seem to be the length and the lack of replay value as it has no coop or online mode, yet AC is maybe a tad longer, probably has less replay value and it also has no online or coop mode but they don't mention this in the AC review. they even say it may not be worth a $60 purchase but its a good weekend rental. i highly disagree with ~10 hours being short and that theres no replay value... theres tons of replay value in Drake and most games are typically the same length if not shorter. anyway, good score, but i disagree with some of their points in their review.

^^ They do say it is the best looking console game ever made, but I guess not everyone will dig the gameplay of every genre.

how is that? this game run absolutely rock solid for me. you have a bad set up or a bad machine or both. this game is just about seamless. it is amazing how folks who own the ps3 have totally different game experiences with the same title. maybe I'm just lucky but my ps3 set up runs like a champ.

Screen tear isn't as obvious as people make it out to be. If you're into a game, you probably won't see it. Its very possible its there and you just haven't noticed. But like everyone is saying, just because its there doesn't mean its some big problem.

how is that? this game run absolutely rock solid for me. you have a bad set up or a bad machine or both. this game is just about seamless.

EVERYONE will experience tearing while playing the game. As rare as it is, it will happen. Although Naughty Dog did a great job of making the game run at a steady 30FPS, there are times when there is just too much happening at once. Instead of lowering the frame rate, they decided to let it tear until the problem is resolved. Since the tearing typically occurs during a very active scene, you probably don't notice it.

8.9 at gametrailers. only the SD video is up.
their main complaints seem to be the length and the lack of replay value as it has no coop or online mode, yet AC is maybe a tad longer, probably has less replay value and it also has no online or coop mode but they don't mention this in the AC review. they even say it may not be worth a $60 purchase but its a good weekend rental. i highly disagree with ~10 hours being short and that theres no replay value... theres tons of replay value in Drake and most games are typically the same length if not shorter. anyway, good score, but i disagree with some of their points in their review.

HD Gametrailers review - 8.9
http://www.gametrailers.com/player/28089.html

That review was so stupid. Could they spoil the game any more? wtf...

I disagree quite a bit with some parts, well some parts they are simply wrong.. calling the A.I. bad, taking you out in numbers (it's pretty much the opposite of that, there are rarely large numbers " "hand to hand is a possibility but we don't recommend it" .. "you're basically relegated to one 3 hit combo" .. "and it can be almost impossible to get the time right"

Good grief, there build certainly isn't like the game I've been playing. At least they got the graphics portion of the review right, lol


As for the length, it seems like a good lenth to me, I'm over 8 hours and have completed about 80%. Most importantly it isn't artificially long with repeating the same areas over again doing them backwards or somethign lame like that.

Gametrailers review is terrible. I disagree with just about every point they make.

I can't believe anyone would knock this game for its length. Come on, GT! This isn't a 40-hour RPG. It's very, very replayable for an adventure game. I'm on chapter 10 on hard difficulty, and I'm already planning on playing through this next time on crushing difficulty using the "flip world" reward. I usually agree with GT's scores, but I sure don't on this one.

I came in here hoping someone would also bring up the tearing. Glad to see it in a twisted way; better than it being my monitor crapping out or something :) I noticed it heavily during the first few minutes of gameplay, especially when you look at the waterfall, but after that it settled down.

I have to say I love the controls.. so fluid and perfect. Rarely have I felt something that controls and plays as well as this does.

Gametrailers review is terrible. I disagree with just about every point they make.

It certainly is puzzling. I still don't understand what their "design" score is supposed to refer to. I expected a bit more depth from GT on this one, but I guess they shot their wad reviewing Assassin's Creed and hanging on every word Jade Raymond had to say this weekend. Whatever. Great review for what by most accounts seems to be a crap game in Assassin's Creed and an "oh, crap, we have to review Uncharted" kind of review for Drake.

I am disappointed in GT as of late when it comes to their video selection. Seems like the spoiler warnings aren't all that prevelant for them. I don't think the review gave any major details away, but the fact that it shows the end fight and pretty much every piece of cool surprise gameplay stuff is a bit unsettling.

All I know is that Drake is the best game I have played in ages. Regardless of length (GT's 10 hour estimate is definitely on the short side compared to what I got out of the game) or supposed lack of replay value. I'll certainly be playing it many times over, just like I've seen Indiana Jones a million times. Whatever happened to replaying something just because it was good rather than having to have other **** to do or be able to go online with it? Isn't it pretty obvious as of late that online isn't all it's cracked up to be all the time, either? I'm looking at you COD4's crappy lobby system.

Didn't watch gt's review because i don't want to see the spoilers since i don't have the game yet, but i definitely disagree about the hand to hand combat. From playing the demo, i think its absolutely brilliant. It is a shooter, so they make the hand to hand a simple concept, but still kinda hard to get the timing on. It may be the same button combo, but I've seen several different animations for it just while playing the demo. I especially like the one where hes by a wall and smashes a guy into it.

Didn't watch gt's review because i don't want to see the spoilers since i don't have the game yet, but i definitely disagree about the hand to hand combat. From playing the demo, i think its absolutely brilliant. It is a shooter, so they make the hand to hand a simple concept, but still kinda hard to get the timing on. It may be the same button combo, but I've seen several different animations for it just while playing the demo. I especially like the one where hes by a wall and smashes a guy into it.

Yeah, there is more than "one combo" as GT says. You can use the square button repeatedly. The square, triangle, square "brutal combo" is indeed hard to pull off, but I think it should be. I didn't do as much fighting as I would have liked my first time around, but I was having so much fun with the guns I always forgot I could do it. Will most certainly be playing through again over the Thanksgiving holiday and see how much more hand to hand I can squeeze in.

To continue on my review rant a bit, it amazes me how AC got a higher score. All GT did was show videos of that game clipping and the silly AI over and over again yet it scores higher. Drake looks better, I think, too. Drake may not have re-invented the wheel, but they surely chromed out the rims. A tried and true formula superbly done will always win out over a game that fails to meet its lofty goals for me. Two videos (combat and the monk exploit) steered me well clear of Assassin's Creed. There's absolutely NOTHING like that in Uncharted that I can remember.

Finally finished it (33/60 treasures found). The game remained a top quality experience to the very end. Playing the final 1/3rd of the game on Hard with Fast mode turned on got really hectic but it was never frustrating.

The GT review is off-base on a few things. Hand to hand is very useful since it is a sure way to net a kill without having to aim. I strategically use it to save ammo in some areas, but overall it has its place. And for a reviewer, he isn't showing much skill if he can't master the combo - I can do it 100% of the time. It ain't hard at all. Besides, there are other combos, but not all are listed. You can even combo with your weapon. It's funny, so far the complaints here about them isn't about the score, but over the fact the guy doesn't seem to know how to play well (and reveals too much info).

In any case, enough about them. This title gets my vote for best PS3 game of 2007 from me. Final scores:

Graphics: 9.75.
The best visuals I've seen, and I didn't give it a 10 because of the minor tearing. Almost everything is so "crisp", especially the first scene and the jungle areas. The lightning engine is top notch and a lot of the textures throughout the game made the environments pop with detail unlike any game I've played. The character models weren't quite as good as Heavenly Sword, but the shadow technique was a LOT better (no feathered jaggies here). This is a beautiful game to play.

Audio: 10.0
I played with 5.1 PCM sound turned on (it goes up to 7.1) and I believe it is the best aural experience I've heard in any game.

Music: 9.0
About as cinematic a musical score that a video game can get. Nicely varied, going from heroic to creepy to pulse-pounding action sequences all throughout the game.

Gameplay: 9.5
Platforming, shooting and melee mixed in with vehicle action and mild puzzle sequences all come together near perfectly in this game. Props to ND for the great camera work that makes it a very intuitive experience to play. The cover system is awesome, and the enemy A.I. was really impressive. Lastly, I really love how smooth Fast Mode (unlockable) makes the game feel. I will always have it turned on whenever I play the game.

Presentation: 9.75
I couldn't ask for a better storytelling experience for an action game. GREAT voice acting by the three main characters (some of the others, not so much), and the story overall was really cool despite being cliche (which is the point homage, tbh). This was simply a fun game to experience because of how well it was all presented.

Longevity: 8.25
After going through it once or twice more (next up, Crushing difficulty) I'll be playing this game the same way I do a really good movie: by pulling it out every now and then to enjoy it rather than play it regularly. That's not uncommon for action adventures since usually it's only multi-player titles that get near infinite replay value. For what's here, the reward system of Uncharted do make me want to get the 1,000 point bonus.

TOTAL SCORE 9.7

There are some good games out there right now, but few will offer the same "total" entertainment experience of Uncharted. You get great gameplay AND great storytelling all in one title. I am looking forward to the inevitable sequel.

Can't wait to get this... almost picked up AC at Wal-Mart today but I'm gonna hold off on that... I think I'll get my SP fix from Uncharted, then fire up Oblivion again.

I avoid using Hand to Hand unless necessary. I have a gun. Why would I want to punch someone? Headshots, headshots, headshots.

The more I play this game, the more it reminds me of Gears of War, gameplay wise. The enemy A.I. is virtually identical (Flank, then advance on your position), the combat/coversystem is the same... just add in platform/adventure elements and competent friendly A.I. I think all of that together makes it a better overall game than Gears (though not a better shooter).

I'm still not feeling the story, though. Like Gears of War, the story is typical to the genre, and I pretty much ignore it. Granted, I haven't gotten to the end yet, so I'm hoping there's some big "omg" twist or event.

My review? Stellar...funtastic...GOY.... The more I play the more it's confirmed - best game for the PS thus far for a single player experience - second place isn't even close...

Wow that review is way off I am playing on normal and have passed all the hand to hand objectives only about 50% into the game. I say I use it 40% of the time its incredibly fun, to roll around from object to object get in close and either strangle from the back work someone over with a square square square square, or even the gun combo, square R1 Square, or the special square triangle square.

Plus hand to hand gives out the most ammo which I never run out of. For me only the sniper rifle compares to bone crunching in close.

This game is a MUST buy, it has the right mix of action and puzzles and the strory is great. Best game for PS3 so far IMO

I'm picking this up today at lunchtime. I'll not watch the gametrailers review if it contains spoilers, but 8.9 doesn't seem to be a bad score. And if you enjoyed the game so much then why do you care?

I'm picking this up today at lunchtime. I'll not watch the gametrailers review if it contains spoilers, but 8.9 doesn't seem to be a bad score. And if you enjoyed the game so much then why do you care?

Well it's more the fact that some of the things the reviewer says are completely incorrect and misleading.

Well it's more the fact that some of the things the reviewer says are completely incorrect and misleading.

Ah. Makes sense.

Anyway, I prefer reasonably negative reviews to reasonably positive reviews. They make it easier for me to decide where to spend my money. So many great games to play now.

DON'T WATCH THE GAMETRAILERS REVIEW IF YOU HAVEN"T FINISHED THE GAME! IT HAS MAJOR SPOILERS, INCLUDING A CLIP OF THE FINAL MOMENTS OF THE GAME.


It blows my mind to think that Gametrailers gave Uncharted a lower score than Assassin's Creed, and it's an insult to Uncharted that they actually suggested the game is a rental canidate.


I bought Unchared and rented Assassin's Creed on Friday. I gave both games a shot that night, but guess which game had me so wrapped up in it, that I felt compelled to finish it this weekend? The answer is Uncharted.



The game was freaking awesome, and probably the best single player experience I've had in a game all year. So much fun, and so entertaining. It totally had me hooked, and I wasn't gonna stop til I had finished it. This is not the type of thing I do on a regular basis. Foe me to finish a game in a weekend, is a rather crazy event. It took me about 10-12 hours to finish on "normal".


Assassin's Creed on the other hand started off slow, and while it does get more interesting, the game just doesn't grab you like Uncharted does. I haven't gotten far enough to give a fair opinion, but I can already say that it just didn't feel really exciting to me in any way. Not sure if I'll buy it or not.

it took me about 50 hours to beat it......thats just me though.

What?

91% complete going on my 9th Hour. Great game on Normal.

I can't wait to replay it again. There is so much replay value to collect just about everything; even if its just for bragging rights!

GT - review is a joke, take it as a grain of salt.

I do have to admit that Jade looks great, and that her game is good also, but U:DF is much better experience.

TOTAL SCORE 9.7

There are some good games out there right now, but few will offer the same "total" entertainment experience of Uncharted. You get great gameplay AND great storytelling all in one title. I am looking forward to the inevitable sequel.Nice review, I can't really find anything to disagree with. Now that I've finished the game I can justifiably say Uncharted's being underrated. The scores have been good but it deserves much better than "good". The three 8.5s from EGM and 8.0 from Gamepro are the most baffling to me.

EDIT:
Sorry, I meant Gamepro instead of Gamespot

ive been waiting for a game like this on the PS3...i think it ranks right up there with Bioshock in almost every aspect...ive only been playing Drakes for about 2 hours but i LUUUUUVVVV it! everything about the game is solid...i especially like how when walking through the forests the foliage on the ground moves as you move over it...pretty cool if ya ask me! its all those little things that can take a game from just being good to being great...i would definately classify this as a great game...in my book its between Drakes and Bioshock for GOTY...as far as mass effect goes..........to many technical problems IMO

I am at 46% in the game and played only 3 1/2 hours and died quite a lot.Is the % progress off ? (I'm at the level were drake and the girl fall down the falls with the jeep)

Nice review, I can't really find anything to disagree with. Now that I've finished the game I can justifiably say Uncharted's being underrated. The scores have been good but it deserves much better than "good". The three 8.5s from EGM and 8.0 from Gamespot are the most baffling to me.

+1

I am at 46% in the game and played only 3 1/2 hours and died quite a lot.Is the % progress off ? (I'm at the level were drake and the girl fall down the falls with the jeep)

That sounds about right to me. I'm at about 80% and have logged over 8 hours (actual play time much more due to deaths and other time messing around).

I am at 46% in the game and played only 3 1/2 hours and died quite a lot.Is the % progress off ? (I'm at the level were drake and the girl fall down the falls with the jeep)

The game gets tougher as it goes on, and therefore the second 50% of the game will take you longer to complete. It took me between 10-12 hours to finish, and I collected a little more than half of the hidden treasures.

Agree with Tiger it seems easier (less hours) to get to 50-55% then it slows down some for the back half.

Nice review, I can't really find anything to disagree with. Now that I've finished the game I can justifiably say Uncharted's being underrated. The scores have been good but it deserves much better than "good". The three 8.5s from EGM and 8.0 from Gamespot are the most baffling to me.

8.0 from Gamespot? The site is only showing previews for me.

The three 8.5s from EGM and 8.0 from Gamespot are the most baffling to me.

Gamespot also gave R&C a 7.5, so I would take all of their reviews with a grain of salt.

Agree with Tiger it seems easier (less hours) to get to 50-55% then it slows down some for the back half.The last 5-6 chapters are definitely much more challenging than the prior 15 or so.

And, of course, the length of the game depends on what difficulty level you're playing. On hard, it took me about 10 hrs. I would guess that on easy or normal difficulty, it'd be around 8 hrs.

From reading some of the reviews in the 80-90% range, it sounds like they're mostly bored by the combat sequences. I admit, there's nothing new or revolutionary about the gunplay (or anything else, for that matter), but it refines it to near perfection.

Remember, too, that when reviewers play a game that offers multiple difficulty levels, they'll almost always play the easiest difficulty. That way they can move through the game quickly. It goes without saying, but always understand where these reviewers are coming from.

I'm on chapter 19, and if anything it seems like it's getting easier as I go, if not just for the reason that I'm a lot better at mowing down the bad guys without wasting ammo or getting shot. I think I've put in around 8 hours so far. Great game, I thought CoD4 was good but this is the best single player game I've played in a long time.

^ Bar none ;) I'm finding it easy also now that I am towards the end... *SPOILER ALERT*

Anyone not beyond chp 18+ please don't read.

*****

Guys while I was playing at night, the chapter where u first find about those monsters... Yo its really creepy with dynamic lights/shadows at night. Really love the atmosphere. Now for a fact we know what our little black beauty is capable off... What i found the most amazing to be is the volumetric smog/fog/clouds... Especially when u blow up and follow the cloud raise up and disapear... You can even see its shadow on the bottom.

SIMPLY AMAZING!

Love the ability when you run you can still shoot backwards.... It just i superb.

8.0 from Gamespot? The site is only showing previews for me.I meant Gamepro, sorry about that. But I wouldn't be surprised to see the same from GS.

I am playing in crushing difficulty now and the fights are INCREDIBLE. if you thought hard was fun just wait to see what the AI does in crushing.

I am playing in crushing difficulty now and the fights are INCREDIBLE. if you thought hard was fun just wait to see what the AI does in crushing.Holy crap, you're not kidding! I played the first 3 chapters and didn't notice a lot of difference. But I'm on #4 now (the demo chapter) and it's positvely brutal. Not to exaggerate but it feels like a different game. Every encounter is a life and death struggle, I love it. I'm missing Elena's help already.

Holy crap, you're not kidding! I played the first 3 chapters and didn't notice a lot of difference. But I'm on #4 now (the demo chapter) and it's positvely brutal. Not to exaggerate but it feels like a different game. Every encounter is a life and death struggle, I love it. I'm missing Elena's help already.

Yup I am on chapter 4 too. First three chapters I too was like "pff , crushing difficulty is no big deal" Then I arrived at that pirate camp in chapter 4 ........ :D

I meant Gamepro, sorry about that. But I wouldn't be surprised to see the same from GS.Yep. So predictable. :)

http://www.gamespot.com/ps3/action/uncharteddrakesfortune/review.html?om_act=convert&om_clk=tabs&tag=tabs;reviews

8.0

The Good
- Lush jungle environments are stunningly realized
- Drake's animations are nuanced and naturalistic.

The Bad
- Tough and plentiful enemies can make firefights frustrating
- Platforming elements can be too forgiving
- Certain story elements are underdeveloped.

I can understand the first two bad points but not underdeveloped story. And those are the only good points they could come up with?!

I just finished Uncharted. With all the average review (gamespot 8.0!), I felt compelled to at least post my brief impression: This is by far the best single player video game experience I had in many years. The story, the gameplay, the action, the humour, the caracters make this game an unforgettable experience.

A friend of mine bought a PS3 last week to play Assassin`s Creed, he ended up too hooked to Uncharted. We both agree that Uncharted is a superior game to Assassin Creed, seing the reviews giving higher score to the latter is just revolting!

Anyway, I finished Uncharted with 440 medal points, 36 treasures. Once I finished Assassin Creed, I will definitively give Uncharted another go at a harder level.

Did they seriously have one of the bads saying the game was too hard......

Did they seriously have one of the bads saying the game was too hard......

lol, I was thinking that as well. You have the option for Easy, normal and Hard, then after that it unlocks an even harder difficulty. Seriously grasping here to knock a PS3 title but then again I'm not shocked considering the Ratchet score. Hey, that game was too easy for them, lol. I actually agree that Ratchet is too easy (my biggest gripe) but I'm still loving it. I'm hoping that completing it unlocks a harder mode. To be fair it was a different reviewer, perhaps they should have swapped games ;)

Gamespot delivers again.

they forgot to put "its a ps3 game" under the bad section. That alone should bring the score at least a point. Also no clan deathmatch or space battles. Game is clearly not developed enough. Maybe next time naughty dog.

i was expecting GS to give Mass Effect a 9.5 at the least, but to my surprise, they gave it an 8.5.

My roommate picked it up and I played a bit to waste time since I'm going to spend the next year devouring rock band on my 360. SO after 2 hours I got to chapter 5 and just couldn't take it anymore and turned off.
Things I love:
Drake being practically a clone of Capitan Mal from Firefly. Just a great main character.
Graphics are overall beautiful. I get tearing on some shots but still lovely.
Sound is great
Story is great not just the story the level design has some killer moments of action and suspense.

What kills it for me is the damn combat. The AK might as well be a mac-10 with amount of stray bullets it fires. The head shots seem damn impossible for me to do correctly( got 20 of them so far but never when I actually aimed for them). The hand to hand is sluggish and not worth getting shot for the time it takes to do it. Basically they forgot to make it fun.
Anyways I'm sure I'll give it another go but I agree with gamespots review. 8.0

Yep. So predictable. :)

http://www.gamespot.com/ps3/action/uncharteddrakesfortune/review.html?om_act=convert&om_clk=tabs&tag=tabs;reviews

8.0

The Good
- Lush jungle environments are stunningly realized
- Drake's animations are nuanced and naturalistic.

The Bad
- Tough and plentiful enemies can make firefights frustrating
- Platforming elements can be too forgiving
- Certain story elements are underdeveloped.

I can understand the first two bad points but not underdeveloped story. And those are the only good points they could come up with?!

Gamespot has been renamed to Microspot. It's not yet official, but it's a done deal.
As part of the agreement, the only way a PS3 title can score 9 or more is if it's also available on the 360.

They complain about one game being too easy and one being too hard. Holy crap, biggest crock of s..t I've ever heard. Why do people even read their reviews, all they do is publish crap. They should stick to only 360 reviews.

They complain about one game being too easy and one being too hard. Holy crap, biggest crock of s..t I've ever heard. Why do people even read their reviews, all they do is publish crap. They should stick to only 360 reviews.

i agree hell it was a hard game to me it took me like 50 hours...

What kills it for me is the damn combat. The AK might as well be a mac-10 with amount of stray bullets it fires. The head shots seem damn impossible for me to do correctly( got 20 of them so far but never when I actually aimed for them). The hand to hand is sluggish and not worth getting shot for the time it takes to do it. Basically they forgot to make it fun.
Anyways I'm sure I'll give it another go but I agree with gamespots review. 8.0

I agree to a point, but not to the point where you should turn it off. I avoided the AK throughout the whole game because I didn't like it. Seemed to weak for the trade-off and took too many bullets to actually kill someone. Stick with it. Carry the shotgun instead and wait until some of the better weapons come along later.

As for the fisticuffs, there are places where it is definitely necessary and will come in handy. There is a stealth element to the game in certain areas and good combat kills give you extra ammo when desperately needed.

As for it not being fun, I completely disagree. Uncharted is the most fun I've had gaming in a LONG time.

i agree hell it was a hard game to me it took me like 50 hours...

I said "What?" before and I'll say it again? WHAT took you 50 hours to complete?

I said "What?" before and I'll say it again? WHAT took you 50 hours to complete?

I was just exploring and looking at things also my bad, but still its a hard game bro..to me it was at least.....:D

I was just exploring and looking at things also my bad, but still its a hard game bro..to me it was at least.....:D

50 hours for Uncharted? Either you have a terrible sense of time or you're a terrible gamer (no real offense intended). Considering the game only came out in the wild in some places last Thursday (that's less than 96 hours ago), I find your 50 hour claim to be pretty sensational. Realistically, Uncharted takes between 10-12 hours to beat - and that includes looking at the scenery.

UNLESS you are talking about multiple playthroughs for 100% completion, which you didn't clarify.

50 hours for Uncharted? Either you have a terrible since of time or you're a terrible gamer (no real offense intended). Considering the game only came out in the wild in some places last Thursday (that's less than 96 hours ago), I find your 50 hour claim to be pretty sensational. Realistically, Uncharted takes between 10-12 hours to beat - and that includes looking at the scenery.

UNLESS you are talking about multiple playthroughs for 100% completion, which you didn't clarify.Don't take him seriously, it's just somebody's joke account. Check his post history.

I just made it back to the level that is in the demo. I really wish that they would show footage of the part of the game where you are about to jump down into the U-boat in one of the TV commercials. The lighting, water, etc in that particular scene are especially striking. I have never seen in-game graphics of that quality before. The controls are very tight, just like in the demo and those cinemas are top-notch. There is excellent character development too. I am very happy with the purchase.

Also, I know that it is trivial but I really like how there isn't a persistant HUD. No IR!! ;)

I have a feeling crushing will take me 50 hours and some lost hair. :D

50 hours for Uncharted? Either you have a terrible since of time or you're a terrible gamer (no real offense intended). Considering the game only came out in the wild in some places last Thursday (that's less than 96 hours ago), I find your 50 hour claim to be pretty sensational. Realistically, Uncharted takes between 10-12 hours to beat - and that includes looking at the scenery.

UNLESS you are talking about multiple playthroughs for 100% completion, which you didn't clarify.

yes im a bad gamer is that bad????

Don't take him seriously, it's just somebody's joke account. Check his post history.

slacker george your the most notorious person ever you know that on the board with a joker account you already been banned twice with multiple accounts duh...;)

Punctuation FTW.

GS is straight up trash... It's time for them to take out that stick out of their ass!

JOCK calm down dude...

I have a feeling crushing will take me 50 hours and some lost hair. :DI'm starting to think that certain watery room in the fortress is going to be next to impossible on crushing. I may have screwed myself a bit with my weapon selection though. I'd really be interested to hear if anyone's passed that yet.

GS is straight up trash... It's time for them to take out that stick out of their ass!

JOCK calm down dude...

my bad smokey....:)

Just finished it. Took my time and had a lot of fun. Clocked in at 10 hours.

This game above all else proves the PS3 in my opinion. Smooth, seamless and without any doubt delivers on the "next gen" promise.

So good I'm typing all in fragments!

Just found a great easter egg! Level 15 cemetery. Be sure to read the sepulchres and have your Spanish language skills ready to go.

Is anyone bumping the brightness under the display settings of the game to the max?

Is anyone bumping the brightness under the display settings of the game to the max?Doesn't that wash out the game somewhat? The default brightness is perfect on my set.

Well......I have my TV settings at contrast 90 and brightness at 50. When I play on the game's default settings, you can't really appreciate the lighting so when I bump the brightness to max settings in the game, you can see the lighting more.

Gamespot also gave R&C a 7.5, so I would take all of their reviews with a grain of salt.

Is there anyway I can ask this question without starting a flamewar? (If not, then just disregard)

I don't frequent that site very often, but I'm wondering if they have an inherent preference for the 360 over the PS3? I was a bit astonished to see a rating of 8.0 for this game. Granted, I'm only on Chapter 6, but it seriously feels like it is deserving of a 9.0+ :confused:

I used to go there a bunch back in my PS2 days, then I kind of slowed down and haven't been back until recently.

I am still amazed at how lush and colorful the jungles are in this game. THIS is how you do an outdoor game. Beautiful and stunning.

Yea, this is the most detailed and beautiful environment I have ever seen in a game. Simply amazing. The game is fun too.

Is there anyway I can ask this question without starting a flamewar? (If not, then just disregard)

I don't frequent that site very often, but I'm wondering if they have an inherent preference for the 360 over the PS3? I was a bit astonished to see a rating of 8.0 for this game. Granted, I'm only on Chapter 6, but it seriously feels like it is deserving of a 9.0+ :confused:

I used to go there a bunch back in my PS2 days, then I kind of slowed down and haven't been back until recently.

Yeah, it may start a flame war but it's safe to say that there are many people that feel they've shown a heavy bias against the PS3 over the last 18 months or so (Insomniac themselves coyly called them out on it once), particularly since Jeff took over as Editor in Chief. It goes well beyond the reviews, but let's not get too side tracked about them here.

What kills it for me is the damn combat. The AK might as well be a mac-10 with amount of stray bullets it fires. The head shots seem damn impossible for me to do correctly( got 20 of them so far but never when I actually aimed for them). The hand to hand is sluggish and not worth getting shot for the time it takes to do it.
Use the pistol. Really, I haven't found a reason to use any other weapon in the game. I got the 100 headshots achievement by chapter 4. It's easier on normal, since you can actually take your time to line up the shot some. Also, turning up the sensitivity all the way helped some.

Use the pistol. Really, I haven't found a reason to use any other weapon in the game. I got the 100 headshots achievement by chapter 4. It's easier on normal, since you can actually take your time to line up the shot some. Also, turning up the sensitivity all the way helped some.

I did use the pistol and despite my corss hair being on their head or face I rarely got a intended head shot(i'm playing on normal). My best combo was pistol and shotgun. I will likely play more later(not today because RB will dominate my life) but probably a bit this weekend. Again I think that this game is great other than my problems with gun combat.