Mini Reviews

Mini Reviews:

i)Game:

The Last of Us:

This is a PS-3 exclusive game, with a zombie revolving story. But hang on, there is a reason why this game is considered to be one of the best titles ever to come out for the PS-3. It has some incredible graphics, including mind blowing visuals and attention to detail, from a moving leaf, to a falling rain-drop. The gameplay is pretty good, with the classic Naughty Dog engine(remember Uncharted?). Although the puzzles are not too complicated, it still takes some time to figure out the best way forward. But unlike some other games, it does not drag. Plus you can opt for hints in case you get stuck. Weapons and bullets are in short supply, so you must learn to conserve them. Action, adventure, suspense, thrill, horror, humor, you get to experience everything in this game. The story, though basic will keep you occupied. Somewhere down the line, you start feeling as if you are part of the game. This is definitely a must have.

Rating: 9.5/10

ii) Book:

Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman:

This book is another masterpiece, a life changing novel for me. It portrays the importance of EQ over IQ, something which was largely ignored both in personal and professional life. The book covers the basics of biology, and gives a good insight into the nature and behaviour of people. It will help you understand the basics of emotions, and will give you tips on handling several problems, as well as dealing with others. For a psychology lover like me, this book was a pure delight. Although it does get slightly technical at times, I would recommend this book to anyone who has passed high school. The author is an expert on the topic, and his writing style is pretty decent.

Rating: 9/10

iii) Movie:

Gravity, by Alfonso Cuaron

Unlike 99% of the crowd who reviewed Gravity, I didn’t like the movie that much. I believe its largely over-hyped, including statements by James Cameron such as, it’s the best sci-fi movie ever made, etc. I may be no expert, but this movie is definitely not the best by a long shot. It is very much an average(or below average) movie. The plus point of course, is the special effects, when you consider it in 3-D. But there is hardly anything else in the movie to note about. The story is very banal, and the movie is way too short to make an impact(I had just started munching on my popcorn when the interval arrived). Sandra Bullock is ageing and it shows. The movie could have been made in a much better way. I regret to say that I wasted 430 bucks on this movie (Imax)

Rating: 5/10

iv) Anime:

Higurashi no Naku Koro ni:

This anime was recommended to me by Nikhil. There are two seasons, and I am still watching the first one. So far, I would say that I am impressed. This is a very unique anime(based on a game+manga), in the sense that it involves looping(one story is of 4-5 episodes, it ends and then a different but related story begins and so on). For example, a particular character may die in the first chapter, but then be alive for the next chapter and so on. These chapters are linked, but in a subtle way. The series is definitely not meant for children. There is blood, murder and gore. But the suspense is just incredible(Not the same level as Mirrai Nikki though). And the character design is excellent. But it does have its occasional dull moments.

Rating: 8/10.