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A little short, but still a winner.

4 Rating: 4, Useful: 0 / 0
Date: March 15, 2008
Author: Amazon User

The Ace Attorney series returns with the introduction of new defense attorney Apollo Justice picking up where Phoenix Wright left off, around ten years or so in the games' storline since the end of Ace Attorney 3.

*Please note this review contains a couple of minor spoilers in the second-to-last paragraph.*

Those who played the first three games in the series will find much to love about this game. The basic gameplay returns with a couple of new features, including the ability to 'percieve' lies in a witnesses's testimony as well as several scenes that use the 3-D rendering abilities of the DS. Most evidence is fully examinable as in the fifth case of the first game in the series. There are also several different forensic analysis techniques to be used in the game, though none of them are used more than a couple of times.

A few of the characters from previous games, Phoenix Wright among them, also return for this game, and that same miserable Judge is still running the courtroom, though he seems fairer than he did in previous games. Phoenix is currently disbarred and working as a poker player for reasons you will discover, and you quickly find yourself working with Phoenix's "daughter" Trucy, a young magician who takes over the sidekick role from Maya Fey. Although she is not quite as endearing as Maya, Trucy is more helpful and even manages to avoid getting kidnapped for the entire game. Perhaps the most welcome returning character is Ema Skye, your assistant from Case 5 in the first game, who is now working as a police detective. She is still obsessed with "scientific investigation," but spends an equal amount of time eating snacks - you'll see. I found myself laughing out loud at some of her dialogue in the game. The main prosecutor this time around is Klavier Gavin, an 80s hair-band throwback who moonlights as a rock star. He's not as effective as past foes such as Edgeworth or the Von Karmas, primarily because he's actually a pretty nice guy, but he does play a mean air guitar in court. Other new characters include a family if gangsters and their "Pretty Fly" son Wocky, Wocky's demure fiancee Alita, Lamiroir, a diva singer, Eldoon, the most hardcore ramen vendor in the world, and a troupe of magicians with an ominous past. All of these characters are fun to interact with and add up to an enjoyable gameplay experience.

Unfortunately, there are still only four cases in the game and it does end a little too quickly. I guess we all got spoiled by the bonus case in the orginal Ace Attorney, but it would have been nice to tackle one more case. On the plus side, the first case is nowhere near as easy as previous "introductory" cases, so you'll get much more playtime out of it. This time around, you don't spend much time presenting evidence ("Objection!!") but either percieve lies or press witnesses from different angles. This serves to make the game a little easier, but also a little less frustrating since you're rarely confronted with scenarios forcing you to "guess" the correct evidence. All but the second case are heavily tied into the main storyline, which doesn't hurt the gameplay but does make the game feel more linear.

As the game was designed for the DS specifically, the graphics are noticeably better, though this does become painfully apparent when sprites from the previous games (such as the Judge or Phoenix when you play him during a flashback) appear and look embarassingly out of place. (Spoiler ahead) I was really hoping for the appearance of Maya, Mia, and Pearl from the previous games, but the only sign of them is Phoenix's use of the Magatama in during the flashback sequences. I really hope they do get a cameo in Ace Attorney 5. The "final boss" is a bit of a disappointment compared to the monstrous Dahlia Hawthorne, especially since the final boss (Spoiler ahead) is already in prison and doesn't have the supernatural menace that Dahlia or even Damon Gant did. Nor does the last case have quite the epic feel to it that the last case in Ace Attorney 3 did, but there is plenty of drama to go around and the ending is typically satisfying and ties up most of the loose ends.

If you're new to the Ace Attorney series, I do suggest you play the three prequels first, but it's entirely possible to jump right in and play and enjoy yourself - just don't expect a accurate representation of the legal system. Fans of the series may find the game to be a little easy, but this game is still an absolute must for your DS library. It's great for killing time while keeping your brain engaged and as such is one of the best games for the system. Highly recommended!

Apollo Justice mixes up the Ace Attorney recipe with pleasing results.

4 Rating: 4, Useful: 0 / 0
Date: March 17, 2008
Author: Amazon User

The Ace Attorney series is back, but with a new central character: a rookie defense attorney by the name of Apollo Justice. The fourth Ace Attorney does a good job of revitalizing a franchise that seemed to be fizzling with age. All of the favorite aspects of the Phoenix Wright trilogy return, to including the over-the-top cases and characters. Apollo Justice shows some marked improvements over Trials and Tribulations because of the fact that it is the first game in the series that was specifically designed for the DS. Despite not being a central figure in the game, Phoenix Wright does return to play a major role. He is the defendant in the first case, during which it is revealed that he lost his attorney badge seven years prior, supposedly due to forged evidence. After the first case, Phoenix is continually working on "secret mission" that he refuses to divulge any information about. More on that later. ... Let's see ... what else ... what else ... Oh, yeah ... there's also the mystery of Phoenix's daughter, who also happens to be your assistant. Hmmm? Did I forget to mention that earlier? Yeah, well, ummm ... just run with it for now.

The cases and storyline are, as can be expected, all of a very high quality and the last case deals a couple of revelations that were almost end-of-Trials and Tribulations quality. Unfortunately, the Psyche Locks make not much more than a cameo appearance, but this is completely understandable because Phoenix Wright is not the main playable character in the game. (Again, more on that later.) To compensate for this, Apollo has a bracelet that works very much the same as Phoenix's Magatama, except that it can only be used in court. With the bracelet activated, time slows down and Apollo has the ability to focus on witnesses on the stand to look for little "tells" that they might have, such as their hands tensing up or nervous swallowing, during parts of their testimony. In addition to this is the return of some of the forensic investigation techniques (dusting for fingerprints and spraying for residue) from the bonus case in the first game. I wished that these were more implemented than they actually turned out to be, but at least they did put them back into the series, which is a start.

The game is still of a good technical quality. The sound is still very fitting to the feeling of the situation and mood of the settings and characters. The graphics have all been upgraded and some cutscenes are actually animated, for the first time in the series. This may sound strange, but, even though this game was a pre-order for me, it has renewed my hope for the series. Just as is done in the games themselves, I will now solve the mystery (to some extent ... after all, this is a review, not a FAQ) of Phoenix's secret mission. The secret mission is a playable part of fourth case in which you, once again, assume the role of Phoenix Wright immediately after his last case. During this secret mission, Phoenix will also be making his own inquiries as his story runs parallel to Apollo's present-day cases. All of this is done in preparation for the test, which is the final case of the game, of a new type of judicial system. (I could say "more on that later", but that would only be assuming that you play the game after reading this review.) All in all, I am very pleased to welcome Apollo Justice to my gaming family.

all you hoped for, and more

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 0 / 0
Date: March 26, 2008
Author: Amazon User

after I heard that the 3rd phoenix wright game was the last i was disappointed. But then I heard about Apollo Justice, and I was pumped up for a new ace attorney game. Phoenix is actually a returning character, although he's about 10 years older and he's not a defense attorney anymore. The first thing that you'll notice is that the 3D evidence examination feature from the 5th case in the 1st game is back. I love being able to examine every piece of evidence to look for clues. Another returning feature is using the touch screen to take fingerprints and theres also neat puzzles to solve such as opening a safe. I still definately miss the old characters, but the new ones are pretty good. especially your sidekick trucy who's training to be a magician. I think shes actually a better sidekick than Maya, but thats just my opinion. In addition, the music is fantastic. This is one of the strong points in the ace attorney series and this game doesnt disappoint. Also, the backround graphics are slightly better and locations such as the courtroom and detention center are completely redrawn. All in All, this is an amazing game that no phoenix wright fan or adventure game fan should miss.

The series keeps getting better

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 0 / 0
Date: March 29, 2008
Author: Amazon User

The Ace Attorney series has produced surprise hit after surprise hit. Every game features a wonderful story, plenty of problem solving, and lots a colorful, funny characters. Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney takes a slight diversion from the series in that the previous title character, Phoenix Wright, is relegated to what is mostly a supporting role. However, the game doesn't miss a beat. This game contains the same well-drawn characters and situations, the combination of humor and soap opera-style drama, and the clever twists and turns that mark this wonderful series.

For fans of the series, it might take a while to get into the game. While there's nothing wrong with these new characters, they don't have the development of the old familiar people. That's mainly because they haven't had the screen time that Phoenix, Maya, and others have had over three games. Keep with them...it will be worth it. During the first three cases, you'll be learning a wide variety of new investigative techniques, thanks to the innovative use of the DS touch screen. You'll dust for fingerprints, spray for poison, take footprint samples, and even solve one case through the use of a mixing board.

When the fourth and final case comes around, the real fun begins. This case is easily the best of the entire series. The past and present collide as you find out all of Apollo's secrets and also discover what happened that caused Phoenix to lose his attorney badge. Finally, you'll test drive a new legal system, wrapping everything up in a package that blows even the other great games away.

Apollo Justice has carried on Phoenix's legacy admirably. This is an awesome game, and a worthy successor to the Ace Attorney franchise. Here's hoping that Capcom has a fifth game in the pipeline, because this franchise is still as fresh and fun as ever.

Better than Phoenix and best DS game ever!!!

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 0 / 0
Date: July 19, 2008
Author: Amazon User

If you liked the Phoenix Wright series, well then you will absolutely love Apollo Justice! I have not yet played all of the Phoenix Wright games, but I have attempted Trials and Tribulations and find myself stuck. So I bought Apollo Justice, which I have managed to beat. It was by no means easier than Trials and Tribulations but it was a lot better. Probably the best DS game I've ever played and in my top ten best adventure games.
The graphics are much better than the Phoenix Wright games. You can't help but notice the artistic quality of the game while playing. It has really increased since Phoenix Wright. The music is also really good and gets the emotions of the game going so you feel like you are there (which you kind of are).
There are some new qualities of this game which far surpass those of Phoenix Wright games as this game was made exclusively for the DS. There is a forensic science feature in which you get to find fingerprints and footprints, among other things, in order to search for evidence. This is really fun because you use the stylus and microphone in a really innovative way. Also there are fully animated videos and special diagrams that allow you to visualize the crime scene much easier, making this a nice and exciting aspect of the courtroom.
One thing that really impressed me about this game was the storyline. Each case in itself was interesting, but the conclusion of the game (which was so amazing) kind of tied all the cases up together to make more sense and it connected all the characters, as well. Basically everything just made sense at the end of the game because mysteries throughout the game were solved, most of them revolving around the main characters, specifically Phoenix Wright's past life.
The conclusion of this game was the best of all and this game overall, with all of it's new features and improvements left me with a wonderful feeling. I was satisfied with this game, but it left me wanting a sequel really bad. This isn't to say it needed a sequel, but I mean that the game was so good, I wanted to play the sequel really badly.
Yes the Phoenix Wright series was good, but I personally like Phoenix better in the Apollo Justice series. If you loved Phoenix, don't worry; he is a pretty big part of this game.
To me this game surpassed the Phoenix Wright games and is worth every penny and minute of time spent on it. It was really a superb game. It was challenging yet doable; not too easy, not too hard. The storyline and characters were outstanding and the conclusion was amazing!
Beating this game left me with a few words in mind: Impressive, very impressive.

AJ: Awesome Attorney

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 0 / 0
Date: August 03, 2008
Author: Amazon User

Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney

First off, I got this game right on time. EXCELLENT CONDITION and good pricing.Nothing was confusing. 5 Stars totes.

Great game!

4 Rating: 4, Useful: 0 / 0
Date: August 18, 2008
Author: Amazon User

I really enjoyed this game, but of course I also enjoyed all the other Phoenix Wright games as well. Love the fact that you can get close to some objects and dust for prints. Also liked the fact that all the cases conected at the end so you get the whole story about Phoenix Wright and what happened to him. Justice personality lacks and it can drive you nuts sometimes. Otherwise a must buy for all that enjoyed Phoenix Wright.

Apollo Justice

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 1 / 1
Date: February 28, 2008
Author: Amazon User

The Ace Attorney series has to be some of my favorite games for the Nintendo DS and I think the adventure/interactive novel genre is perfect for the system and its limitations. That being said I have to say that Apollo Justice is my favorite out of all of them.

Apollo Justice is a young upstart defense attorney and in the beginning of the game you are hired on by the famous ex-Defense Attorney Phoenix Wright. The game starts 7.5 years after the events of trials and tribulations and I am certain most will be perplexed by the mystery of why Phoenix Wright was disbarred and why he has turned into a deadbeat dad that plays poker for a living, but believe me the game holds explanations for all of the problems anyone could have with the story on top of memorable new characters and an amazingly interwoven story to boot.

At first it feels like Phoenix Wright was sort of abandoned by the series and that he has just become an unimportant secondary character who isnt even liked by Apollo Justice, which personally had me aggrivated after controlling him through 3 other games. Yet in the end phoenix wright turns out to be playable throughout a portion of the game and plays perhaps the most important role in the story overall.

Anybody who liked The other Ace Attorney games for any reason should definately try out Apollo Justices first installment.

My only complaint with the game is that they never even mention Phoenix's Trusty sidekicks from the last game nor explain where they went, and even Detective Gumshoe only makes an appearance for a split second.

Apollo Justice is great, but please bring back Phoenix!

4 Rating: 4, Useful: 1 / 1
Date: May 03, 2008
Author: Amazon User

I just finished the game and I must say it was another great addition to the series. It can't compare to the previous three games but it was still good enough to warrant a high rating. The ending was pretty spectacular (think along the lines of Phoenix Wright: Trials and Tribulations). The music was remixed well and the characters were as loveable as ever.

I did have quite a few dislikes about the game though. Starting with Apollo. He seemed like a watered down Phoenix with a bit of Gumshoe's mentality and Edgeworth's emotions. I understand sticking to the formula but if you're going to make a new character, make a NEW character. I loved pretty much all the characters, but Apollo. I would've given anything to be playing as Klavier because I just didn't like Apollo's lack of personality. Also, I've seen others mention it but there really isn't a good opposite to Apollo. So that Phoenix/Edgeworth dynamic is clearly missing from this game.

Also, I compared the ending to Trials and Tribulations. It is, and it isn't similar. For those of you who played Trials and Tribulations, you know that the ending was brewing starting with the first case of Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney and we finally reached a peaceful ending at the end of the third game. Understandably Apollo Justice does not have the same advantage seeing as this is the first game in the series. However, it seems the developers wanted that same ending again, but as I stated, they couldn't pull it off. It was still an alright ending though.

All in all, I'd say Apollo Justice is a good purchase, if you're interested in playing more Phoenix Wright. But if you honestly don't care for Apollo before going into the game, I'd say skip it for now. Wait until the price goes down if it's super important to learn this chapter of the story.

Justice is pretty Good, but Wright is still the Man.

4 Rating: 4, Useful: 1 / 1
Date: June 27, 2008
Author: Amazon User

I enjoyed this game, as I did the each game from the Phoenix Wright series... but Apollo Justice: Ace Attorney just can't compared to its predecessor. The new protagonist, Justice, is for lack of better words, o.k. In my mind his personality was too bland, as were all the supporting characters; this made it difficult for me to enjoy the game as I'd hoped. Phoenix provided witty comments and timely jokes throughout his series to make the games more than just solving cases and defending people... I felt the first three Ace Attorney games were purely entertaining and enjoyable. The latest title provides still interesting cases and introduces some new features like the ability to "Perceive" lies and reintroduces active investigation as in Phoenix Wright: Justice For All. I thoroughly loved each P.W. title and was sad to see the series end and for P.W. to be reduced to a supporting character... I would recommend the other titles before this one.

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