REZ Infinite (and Area X)- PSVR


     When I first played REZ HD, it was on the Xbox 360. Being already familiar with the control scheme of the likes of Panzer Dragoon on the Sega Saturn, I was able to quickly grasp the concept and play it well. The FIRST thing I thought of the game was, “THIS would make an EXCELLENT Virtual Reality game!” Too bad there was nothing like this then, at least on a commercial level.
     I love it when I am right. And I was definitely right about this one. REZ DOES make a fantastic VR game, in the form of REZ Infinite. The added Area X is a sweet addition that is even more mind-blowing than the original, although it is only one level.
     Included is the original REZ from REZ HD, as far as I can recall. 4 levels of pumpin’ techno music, totally influenced by the players shots, either individual or built-up bursts. Despite being a game we enjoyed on the ‘360, make no mistake. This is a VR game of the future, way ahead of it’s time. After these levels is a fifth level, which differs a bit from the first 4. There are more colors and a bit more rendering, but it still fits with the game. It’s an evolution.
     Aiming is a matter of moving the reticle by head motion; look at the objects at which you wish to shoot. The controls are quite easy, and should be, as you have a headset covering your face. The simpler the better. This is the way I feel VR games should be designed. Objects appear from the front and various sides. In the first 4 levels, the camera adjusts automatically. The 5th level is a bit different, I felt as if I had to turn a bit in my chair to aim but as I did, the area into which I was aiming adjusted to the front of my field of view. Beautiful design. I personally didn’t like the music in the 5th level as much as I did the first 4, but that is a matter of taste. Other folks will have other opinions on this.
     The final “boss fight” (play it and see what I mean by putting the term in quotation marks) is BEAUTIFUL as well. The sense of size, the big character in the middle as my little character moves about is absolutely stunning.
     Then we have Area X, which could have been “REZ Infinte 2”, had it been more than 1 level. But forget all that. Area X is the best level. The graphics are more stunning than REZ Infinite (if you can imagine such a thing) and the music is even better. It’s a true “modern update” to the game. I would have liked to see more levels, but I was happy to see the “boss fight” in this one as well. Similar (NOT a “copy”, ‘mind you… just “similar”) to the ending of REZ Infinite. Just more beautiful. Again with the huge character in the center of the chaos while my small one flits around fighting for survival.
     The controls in Area X are slightly different. The familiar control is there, but there are things ADDED. First then, you may have full 360-degree control by facing in any direction. In your reticle there is a color blotch that tells you where the action is. DON’T ignore this, as you may get hit from behind. As well, the R1 button propel you in the direction you are facing. Take a moment and read the on-screen instructions when you start Area X to get the full story. Not that hard to do, and the level is WAY worth it.
     All this said, this game is damned-near PERFECT. I’m not going to judge it based on my taste in music, that’s ridiculous. This IS a VR game of the FUTURE!!! FUTure!! Future! future…
     One of the BEST PSVR games I have tried. I haven’t tried ‘em all, but YOU should definitely try this game.
I have to do this. I see no reason NOT to. For REZ Infinite, and Area X… 10/10.

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