Uncharted: Golden Abyss
Nathan Drake finally goes portable in a prequel to the adventure/platform/shooter hybrid that started it all (Drake’s Fortune, back in 2007). While Golden Abyss promises to port over the series’ classic PS3-style controls, it adds several Vita twists, like touchscreen controls that let you “paint” Drake’s path while scaling cliffs or clambering over rocks, and rear touchpad options that let you fine-tune your sniper rifle or camera’s zoom.
Why it’s promising: Because developer SCE Bend has a more-than-decent track record, from the Syphon Filter series to Resistance: Retribution, the PSP take on Sony’s acclaimed alien-invasion shooters (that, and Uncharted creator Naughty Dog closely oversaw Golden Abyss’s development). Also: We’re talking 30 chapters of game here, so it’ll probably be on par, length-wise, with its PS3 predecessors.
Next: Wipeout 2048
Wipeout 2048
Have there been any bad Wipeout games? This neon-future anti-grav racer often graces Sony system launches, and Wipeout 2048 looks to make the Vita’s launch memorable with new touch-based input controls. Don’t worry, you’ll still steer and pan around with the left and right analog sticks, but Sony’s added touchscreen extras for firing or snatching up weapons on the tracks. The rear touchpad offers another acceleration input, and you can even use your voice to trigger weapons-fire, freeing your fingers to focus on your ship’s steering controls.
Why it’s promising: Developer SCE Studio Liverpool (nee Psygnosis) designed the original Wipeout for the PlayStation (released in 1995) and they’ve handheld every one since, including the critically acclaimed Wipeout HD for the PlayStation 3 (released in 2008) — there hasn’t been a dud in the series yet.
Next: ModNation Racers: Road Trip
