[Review] - Bloodrayne: Betrayal

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BloodRayne hasn't had the best track record. A couple of lackluster action games from the last console generation probably doesn't have many excited for this new iteration. Will the drastic departure from the original's style be enough to win over new fans? Let’s delve in to this 2D blood fest and see what we get. When WayForward announced they were working on a Bloodrayne title for XBLA, it was a pretty big shock. Their last game, A Boy and His Blob was really. A button dedicated to sucking the blood out of your enemies is a HUGE departure from the dedicated button for hugging. I've never been a fan of the Bloodrayne series, but I think I've been converted after this one.

Graphically this is a stunning 2D sidescroller. The look of the game is very reminiscent of the latest Castlevania games. Backgrounds move independently from the foreground and enemies jump in and out from all directions. The game animations flow seamlessly between each other, much like Bayonetta. Enemies are extremely varied and are all just as well designed as Bloodrayne herself.

The soundtrack is also another strong point for Bloodrayne Betrayal. From the title screen you get piano ballads worthy of being in any game music aficionado's collection. A mix of gothic rock and those same piano ballads are played throughout. Later they do become a little repetitive but overall it's a great soundtrack. There's even a hidden version of it that will make any 8-bit gamer smile.

With one melee attack button and one shooting attack, there is a huge variety of moves to be done, which was surprising. By moving the analog stick you can change the variations. There is also a bite attack that you can suck the blood of your enemies to gain energy or infect your opponents and later detonate them like bombs. A little more exposition in the moves would have been nice, but discovering what Rayne can do is part of the charm. The main stumble here is in the platforming. Like most 2D action games it relies on platforming sections and platform puzzles for a large portion of the game play. However, Rayne doesn't control well enough to make these sections fun. Also, the game is pure old school NES era difficult. Lightweights need not apply here. Even some experienced gamers will fall prey to the occasional cheap death.

All said and done, Bloodrayne Betrayal has a great old school feel with impressive new school graphics. From the start you will be drawn in by those graphics and the music will keep you around for a while. If you stick with the game you'll be rewarded with a deep fighting experience that gaming veterans will find enjoyable. If you're easily frustrated by harder games, I'd say give the demo a try and see if it's worth your money.

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