Trials of the Blood Dragon Review: Who Let The Guns Out

Game Reviewed: Trials of the Blood Dragon

Release Date: June 15th, 2016

Developer: RedLynx

Publisher: Ubisoft

Platform: [Reviewed:PlayStation 4] Xbox One and PC

Genre: Platformer

Rated: M for Mature

It’s one of the craziest and most intriguing games to release from RedLynx, Trials. A unique game that’s all about style and timing, Trials has managed to collaborate with Ubisoft to release a new installment that definitely takes creativity to the next level.

In Trials of the Blood Dragon you still perform some of the most breathtaking and jaw-dropping stunts mid-air like the iconic daredevil himself. Then again, I don’t recall Evil Knievel ever doing a full track over dynamite. The Blood Dragon however relates to the Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon title that released in 2014 with a retro feel complimenting shooters from the 80’s early 90’s.

Trials of the Blood Dragon begins with two cyber-teenage twins Roxanne and Slayter working for the government after the disappearance of their mother and death of their father Rex Power Colt. Under the leadership of General Ryback it’s up to you to protect the US from the many dangers that attempt to destroy this great nation, from the foot soldiers to the mighty Blood Dragon.

You still reading about Trials, and yes, it’s the first story mode ever for the series. In addition, it’s the installment that allows you to literally get off of the bike and ride various vehicles including a jetpack, latch on to environmental objects with a grappling hook and even shoot enemies.

Yes you’re able to go in guns blazing in the Trials. Blood Dragon transitions to a 2D platformer in the style of Contra when shooting at enemies, terrestrials and platforms. But rather than this being more entertaining, its underwhelming and over used.

Utilizing the grappling hook however was a nice addition when pushing to complete races within the trial. Defeating a group of ninjas that quite favor the real life Power Rangers was all done through skills, timing and a lot of grappling. Without delving any deeper into the campaign, this was one of the few gems within the 27 chapters.

Trials of the Blood Dragon hit its peak when played traditionally, completing tracks while performing spectacular tricks. But expect to find yourself however looking to replay missions to find hidden objects and help unlock a special locker that in the hub.  There’s also the progression of leveling up your avatar and earning collectible cards/stickers.

Blood Dragon, similar to Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon plays like an old school Sega Genesis game off-bike, with cutscenes as well. On the trail, graphics maintain its 3D environment and awesome visuals that players love most in Trials.

The game presents an awesome techno soundtrack that keeps the 80’s nostalgia, perfectly blending with the games setting. The voiceovers however were completely bland, sucking the life out of the story and overall delivery.