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inFAMOUS

aka: Infamous: Akumyƍtakaki Otoko

Critic Reviews 85% add missing review

ZTGameDomain (10 out of 10)

The powers and experience differences between good and evil karma make gameplay worth the more than one go required to snag all the Trophies. Sucker Punch achieves what should be every developer's objective: creating an engrossing game experience that is focused on, above all, fun. inFAMOUS delivers explosive action within an extensive sandbox, a veritable playground of electrified mayhem.

Jun 4th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Giant Bomb ( )

But it's the quality of the central action in InFamous that I keep coming back to. Everything else would be fancy window dressing if Sucker Punch hadn't nailed the basic gameplay elements, the simple moving and shooting, as precisely as it did. InFamous feels like a game designed from the very ground up to be fun to play, so I guess it's no surprise that as soon as the credits finished rolling on my good version of Cole, I started up an evil one to play it all over again.

May 22nd, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

UGO (UnderGroundOnline) (A)

All in all, though, inFamous is just fun to play. It's fun to run across rooftops, grind down electrical wires and slam down to the ground in a giant shockwave. Unlike Crackdown, inFamous feels like a full game, with everything you'd expect from a $60 title, and it's my personal choice for the best exclusive PS3 game thus far.

May 26th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Play Magazine (10 out of 10)

There are few collision bugs towards the end of inFAMOUS but only because SP pushed the limitations of open-world game development, delivering a game in just over 3 years that looks and plays like it took 5 or more. Otherwise this is simply a superb genre defining experience with two unforgettable endings. inFAMOUS is now in the running for my favorite game ever (how can this and Bionic Commando hit in the same year, let alone month?) and it doesn’t star a creature or a heroine. Hell must be frozen over.

May 20th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Game Chronicles (10 out of 10)

Infamous is just the “jolt” the PS3 needed to “spark” a new battle in the ongoing system wars. It has PS3 Game of the Year written all over it and unless something truly special comes out later this year it could be my all-time favorite game of 2009 on any system. Don’t insult yourself or Sucker Punch by renting this game. Buy it now and help finance the sequel that you will inevitably be imagining as the final credits start to roll. Infamous is gaming perfection or as close as we are going to see this year.

Jun 30th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Lawrence (9.7 out of 10)

Infamous is a game that does almost everything right. Outside of some nitpicky complaints about the moral system, I really don't have anything bad to say about my time in Empire City. I had equal amounts of fun playing through as both good and evil Cole, and was entertained enough by the game to go after every trophy. At this point I've fully played through the game twice, and at no point have I been bored or frustrated. Infamous is a stellar sandbox action game, and we can only hope this turns into a long-running franchise for Sony.

Jun 12th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

NZGamer (9.5 out of 10)

In a nutshell, then, inFamous is amazing. The feeling of "ability" engendered by the game's openness and the soft-lock system that allows you to go exactly where you want to and land precisely where you intended is genre-defining. All other developers of games like this - here is your template, copy it like FPS developers once copied Halo. Add in super powers, the ability to be good or evil, a rich environment, killer story, solid characters and a fun-as-hell city to traverse and, well, you have the best game on PS3. Bar none. Period.

May 25th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Atomic Gamer (95 out of 100)

inFAMOUS is a great game on so many levels, offering not just a fantastic current-gen experience, but one that PS3 owners can call their own. Coupled with Killzone 2 from earlier this year, Sony continues to build a strong case for their fledgling console with the arrival of inFAMOUS. Sucker Punch, I'm sorry I ever doubted you.

Jun 6th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

411mania.com (9.3 out of 10)

InFamous is one of the best games you are going to play on your PS3 this year. The storyline is great, the gameplay is fantastic and the powers are just amazing. Once again SCEA delivers a game that is fun, long-lasting, rewarding, well polished and with all the qualities of a marquee game. We are definitively witnessing the arrival of a new franchise that can be mentioned in the same sentence as God of War and Uncharted as must-play Sony franchises and another good reason to get a PS3.

Jun 17th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

GameZone (9.3 out of 10)

I really do think this game is the real deal. Its a shame there hasn't been a bigger marketing push for it, I could see this becoming a mega franchise. Let me put it to you this way, if you own a PS3 then you must own this game.

May 22nd, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Extreme Gamer (9.2 out of 10)

inFAMOUS takes everything you’ve come to expect from a well done super-hero tale and presents it in the shell of a video-game. inFAMOUS will have you enthralled in its world as you scale up and down the ruins of Empire City. Even after you’re finished the main quest which runs upwards to 30hrs will keep you entertained with its Blast Shards and side missions. For those who don’t play multiple games at once, you’ll likely be interested on how the other side of the karma plays out. inFAMOUS is one game which gamer’s wont mind running over one more time. Sure, inFAMOUS has a few flaws, but it never hurts the games performance. inFAMOUS truly stands out as one of the most electrifying titles so far this year. If you own a ps3, you need to check out Sucker Punch’s next-gen debut in inFAMOUS.

Jun 1st, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

IGN (9.2 out of 10)

For me, Infamous serves as a stellar reason for owning a PlayStation 3. It also proves that Sucker Punch is capable of creating dark, deep and interesting tales, and I'm really hoping that a sequel isn't too far off.

May 12th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Console Monster (92 out of 100)

I could gush more about inFamous, but it is a game that is best sampled than described. In all honesty this title was not firmly on my radar and I regret that now, as the time I’ve had with this game has been truly an enjoyable one. Scaling buildings and objects just works perfectly, you rarely miss a jump or ledge, and this helps enhance the gameplay further, letting you concentrate on navigating or shooting your foes. Some gamers may cry out for a multiplayer mode, but a game of this type just doesn’t need it. Without it the developers have concentrated on a solid singleplayer experience with stellar gameplay and story, If you like playing in the sandbox then I thoroughly recommend that you pick this PlayStation 3 exclusive title up, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

May 25th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Gaming Age (A-)

I'd say that even those who would not normally care for comic/superhero or sandbox-style games would find something to like in inFamous. The game has more than enough content and is enough of a challenge to keep most PS3 gamers busy for a while. inFamous is an impressive first PlayStation 3 project from Sucker Punch and certainly a worthy new IP to build on in the future. Hopefully we'll be seeing more of Cole some day; of course we wouldn't mind some Sly Cooper in the meanwhile.

May 20th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Futuregamez.net (91 out of 100)

inFamous is another must-have game on the PS3. Technically brilliant with a decent storyline and riveting gameplay this deserves to be in your collection.

Jun 3rd, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

1UP (A-)

Simply put, InFamous is the kind of game that when I'm not playing it, I'm constantly thinking about doing so. Heck, I already know what's going to happen right after I finish this sentence: I'm going to go back and play more as "superhero lightning cop" Cole.

May 20th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

GameSpot (9 out of 10)

Empire City may not be the prettiest place, but what it lacks in stunning beauty it makes up for in pure entertainment. One of the most remarkable aspects of Infamous is how it continually improves throughout the quest. The pacing is excellent. It doles out new abilities, introduces powerful story twists, and concocts exhilarating missions at a steady rate, which means the game never loses steam during the course of the lengthy adventure. And when the credits finally roll, you'll just want to keep playing, to see what the other morality choices reveal and to squeeze every ounce of entertainment from this amazing world. Infamous is an exhilarating and incredibly fun open-world game.

May 22nd, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

IGN UK (9 out of 10)

But by the game’s conclusion – which is replete with a twist that’s both credible and shocking – Cole McGrath has established himself as the PlayStation 3’s most exciting new mascot. While not wholly original, the game's blend of open world ideals with superhero powers is done with a verve that’s unsurpassed, and the mesh of platforming and freeform combat is uniquely satisfying. The few quirks and quibbles will be no doubt be ironed out for the inevitable sequel, but for now we're more than happy with this, one of the best PlayStation 3 exclusives to date.

May 12th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Game Over Online (90 out of 100)

It's got far more good points than bad, and is one of the reasons to own a PlayStation 3. A lot of the problems I have with it are just rookie mistakes, and I'm looking forward to the inevitable inFAMOUS 2. I just hope it has different writers.

Jun 26th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Lens of Truth (9 out of 10)

Outside of the unique story missions, the side missions are repetitive. All your basic rescue the citizen, rooftop races, and go fetch quests are here. The only bonus is that the missions do change a little depending on whether Cole is good or evil. These few downfalls really don’t hurt inFAMOUS at all. It’s a solid title, definitely delivering on everything one would expect. I wouldn’t call it a hands down system seller, but you will surely play through it twice once you see the ending.

Jun 24th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

games xtreme (9 out of 10)

I really liked inFAMOUS and there’s a fair amount to do. The core story will last a while depending on how much you like to grind up that XP to upgrade Cole’s powers and there are some nice twists and turns. Collecting Blast Shards and Dead Drops are interesting little diversions that offer minor rewards. The game feels a little repetitious in the side missions from time to time and the enemy aren’t too challenging unless you make a big mistake or two. There are no animation glitches and there is certainly no problem with draw distance or tearing, this is a superbly made title.

Jun 5th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

UltraNinjas (9 out of 10)

Infamous' atmosphere was the winner for me. The artwork on the cutscenes was bloody gorgeous, the music while perhaps infrequent was solid and how they wrapped up the storyline for the end was great – perhaps a little cheesy, but great nevertheless. There's plenty of replayability in the game with messing around, doing side missions, collecting shards, maxing your powers or playing the opposing alignment that means you certainly don't feel cheated for the price you paid.

Jun 3rd, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

TotalPlayStation (9 out of 10)

inFAMOUS is one hell of a game. It's the start of something new without feeling like a BS cliffhanger or a "Chapter 1" of something bigger, yet seems remarkably sure of itself. The level of polish, the way the game supports and encourages you to stick to one karmic path is admirable and the whole experience is something that belongs in every single PS3 owner's library. Just remember, it's an open world platformer, not a sandbox game, and you'll walk away wanting a sequel as much as I do.

May 27th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

JustPressPlay (9 out of 10)

If this game falls short anywhere, it’s the John Williams like composed soundtrack. While this is a pretty serious game, the music tends to over hype certain situations, almost like you’re in a horror movie. However in most cases the sound of the electric blast drowns that out fairly well. Infamous all urges a second play to obtain both endings, one for playing the game as a good guy, the other for completely turning evil. I wont divulge anymore of the story because you NEED to play this game. Seriously people Modern Warfare 2 isn’t out till November, so you need a game to get you through the summer. The ending holds a twist that would make M. Night Shyamalan crap his pants. Despite the hefty price, Go ahead and pick this one up. You can thank me later.

Jun 10th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

UOL Jogos ( )

"Infamous" é mais um excelente título exclusivo para o Playstation 3, que mistura elementos de jogos como "Crackdown" e da série "Spider-Man" para entregar uma aventura caprichada, com controles sensacionais, cenårios ricos e muita ação. Embora Cole não seja um personagem dos mais carismåticos ou originais, seus dons elétricos tem bom uso aqui, criando situaçÔes inusitadas e uma sensação de poder bastante palpåvel durante os vårios combates. Com a opção de deixar o jogador traçar o caminho do bem ou do mal, além de proporcionar missÔes paralelas e outros mistérios, o game faz render o investimento e raramente decepciona.

Jun 11th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

DarkZero (9 out of 10)

Despite the lack of Multiplayer or even a sensible story, inFamous does everything it sets out to do, and achieves it with flying colors. Both graphically astounding and incredibly fun, it would be disillusioning to own a Playstation 3 and not have this rightfully placed at the top of your collection. Apart from a few other 2009 hard hitters like Killzone 2 and Resident Evil 5, there hasn’t been a better use for your wallet than to buy this game.

Jun 23rd, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

GameDaily (9 out of 10)

Much of the fun comes from electrifying bad guys, experimenting with new attacks, climbing buildings with ease and making death-defying leaps. With three unique areas to explore and various enemies to squash, there's plenty to do. On the downside, we didn't care much for Cole's gruff demeanor and his over the top buddy, Zeke, nor do we like the occasional drop in performance when too much happens on screen. That said, the attractive graphic novel cut scenes, devastating electrical attacks, a moody soundtrack and a sprawling post apocalyptic metropolis make inFAMOUS a welcome addition to the PlayStation 3 library.

May 20th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Wonderwallweb.com (9 out of 10)

Overall it’s hard not to be impressed by inFamous, the way it is presented and the amount of ways you can play just blows you away. This is a Playstation exclusive that any fan should be proud of. If you own a PS3 then you should not miss the wonderful experience that is inFamous.

May 20th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

D+PAD Magazine ( )

Irrespective of the game’s superb exploration and combat mechanics, it’s arguably the hardest part – the narrative - that’s the star of the show. inFamous is, after all, a comic book game first and foremost, and Sucker Punch has done a remarkable job in capturing the spirit and character required in both its hero and the world around him, beating even the ‘real’ comic book titles at their own game. It’s a euphoric example of tight, well-constructed narrative and strong game design, and ultimately a title that won’t only be remembered as the best superhero game to date, but also as one of the PS3’s finest moments.

May 21st, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

GameTrailers (9 out of 10)

Thanks to its fluid, genre-crossing gameplay and action-packed scenarios, inFAMOUS has established itself as an electrifying new addition to the PS3 library. Let's hope we'll be seeing more of Cole and Empire City in the near future.

May 21st, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

PlayStation Universe (9 out of 10)

Though inFamous does have a couple of small issues that prevent it from getting top marks, it has lived up to our expectations. The shifting good vs. bad storyline provides a solid foundation that the gameplay builds upon, and therefore missions and side objectives feel genuinely refreshing. Empire City provides an excellent base for exploration and Cole's skills make the third person "shooting" feel fresh and exciting. In conclusion, three and a half years of development work has been worth the effort. inFamous entertains, thrills and delivers a compelling narrative that backs up this action-packed adventure with some style.

May 21st, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

GamingExcellence (9 out of 10)

Realistically someone could have labeled inFamous the mutant offspring to Assassins Creed and Crackdown. It blends some of the best aspects of both of these games while also inheriting some of their worst flaws. There isn’t too much here that we haven’t seen before but the experience itself is worth exploring. It’s when the whole picture starts to come together that some of the seams begin to show. But if you persevere then you will be rewarded by a great story with rich characters and fun gameplay.

May 30th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Impulse Gamer (9 out of 10)

The developers have successfully created an interesting open world with a strong super hero theme that works very well. The story is great and the characters are quite relatable with a variety of twists and turns as you progress through the game. It’s hard being just “good” or “evil” in the game, however thankfully, the game takes this into account which will dictate the ending. The game has a strong comic book feel to it, through the cut scenes and cinemas of the title, however more importantly the gameplay which successfully transforms you into a superhero or super villain. Almost perfect!

Jun 3rd, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

GamingBolt (9 out of 10)

Even though there might be some glitches by walking through fences and railings, and the visuals might not be up to par, but it makes up for it through the sheer entertainment. The game never takes a step back and lets you always get bigger and better missions. But when the game ends, you will want to go back and see what would have happened if you were a villain or vice-versa. InFamous is a great game and shouldn’t be missed.

Sep 16th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

GamePro (US) ( )

Great game, minor faults, a lot of fun to be had, terrible story but the gameplay holds up despite it.

May 26th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

True Game Headz ( )

“Infamous” is a flat-out, must-have game. Even on its hardest setting, it remains accessible to players. The controls are very intuitive, and I haven’t enjoyed a story like this in a game for quite some time. From its onset, the game delivers a gritty, action packed, comic book-like experience, and easily pulls you into the world of Empire City. Whether you choose to be the terrorist everyone thinks you are, or the sole savior of a city going to hell, you’ll have a blast, and you’ll likely play the game a second time to see how the other route ends up. Before “Infamous” came along, most fans of Sucker Punch studios couldn’t wait for the announcement of “Sly Cooper 4.” With the introduction of “Infamous,” that wait just became much, much more bearable.

Jun 9th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Darkstation (9 out of 10)

Infamous is a huge game, not only in size but also a huge game for the Playstation 3. This is a console that is still searching for identity and for a game to really surprise people and this is a game that does just that. Infamous may not be on everyones radar screen but it it has every reason to be. Infamous is one of the best games so far in 2009 and if you have a PS3 you owe it to yourself to check it out.

Jun 12th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Gildia Gier Komputerowych (9 out of 10)

NadszedƂ czas na maƂe podsumowanko, w którym nie będę was zachęcać. Sami doskonale powinniƛcie wiedzieć, czy ta gra speƂni wasze oczekiwania. Mimo kilku bƂędów, inFAMOUS to jedna z lepszych pozycji na PS3 i Ƃadnie się prezentuje na póƂce. Wybór pozostawiam w waszych rękach.

Jun 11th, 2009 · PlayStation 3

Only Games (9 out of 10)

InFamous to dla mnie największa niespodzianka 2009 roku. Chyba nikt nie oczekiwaƂ cudĂłw po tym tytule, a tymczasem dostaliƛmy program nadspodziewanie dobry. OkazaƂo się, ĆŒe niepotrzebnie wątpiliƛmy w specĂłw z Sucker Punch – juĆŒ przy okazji Sly’a pokazali, ĆŒe stać ich na wiele, a ich najnowsze dzieƂo tylko to potwierdza. Doƛć nieoczekiwanie wyrĂłsƂ nam jeden z ciekawszych exclusive’ów dla PlayStation 3. Szczerze mĂłwiąc posiadacze tej platformy w obecnym okresie (totalnej posuchy na rynku growym) nie powinni dƂugo się zastanawiać, tylko biec do sklepu po swoje kopie. TwĂłrcom naleĆŒÄ… się gromkie brawa – za klimat, design, ukazanie moralnych wyborĂłw, ƛwietne misje i udane przeniesienie się na PS3. Do padĂłw marsz!

Jun 20th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Valhalla (9 out of 10)

WƂaƛciciele PlaysStation 3 powinni z otwartymi ramionami powitać Infamous. Sucker Punch wypichcili diabelnie dobrą grę, w ktĂłrej wszystkie skƂadniki zachowują się tak jak trzeba. FabuƂa wciąga i nie popuszcza, dawno nie byƂo tak fajnego nastawionego na akcję sci-fi na konsole. Oprawa potrafi pokazać pazur, ma wƂasny styl i do spóƂki z dĆșwiękiem, pięknie buduje atmosferę. Rozgrywka jest rĂłwnie solidna, zapewniając emocjonujące pojedynki i fantastyczny mechanizm free-roamingowej platformĂłwki. OprĂłcz przycinającej tu i Ăłwdzie animacji i zbyt wielu jak na moje oko ząbkĂłw dookoƂa obiektĂłw trudno się do czegoƛ przyczepić. Infamous nie tylko moĆŒe się podobać, ale rĂłwnieĆŒ wzbogaca bibliotekę PlayStation 3 o kolejną bardzo fajną i oryginalną serię - o ile autorzy pokuszą się o kontynuację, dopinającą kilka otwartych furtek scenariusza. Gorąco polecam w oczekiwaniu na Uncharted 2.

Jun 10th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Good Game (9 out of 10)

I’d just like to point out very quickly Jung, that flipping cars with your shockwave is one of the most fun things I’ve done in a game in a long time. I just love the free running, acrobatics, and the whole misunderstood Spiderman feel to the character is fantastic, and Cole a superhero you just end up loving, no matter which path you choose. I’m giving it 9 too.

Jun 1st, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Good Game (9 out of 10)

The enemies and look of the game can get repetitive early on but stick with it to the end as it just gets better and better - there’s some real inspiration here in the art and mechanics of the game and the open world feels truly open at times, because you can just pick a direction and start climbing...I’m giving it 9.

Jun 1st, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Kombo.com (9 out of 10)

inFamous is the type of game you play twice in a row. First you play good and then you play bad (or vice versa) and get two entirely different experiences. The best part is that Sucker Punch created a game that invites you to explore the world and makes it hard to leave. You'll want to do and see everything possible before you finish the last boss fight. It is easy to tell that each decision was made with great consideration and care. Nothing is without purpose. The largest issue is the poor design choice to make Cole be magnetized to all platforms when he jumps ledge to ledge, which, all things considered, isn't the biggest sin that could have happened. Sucker Punch has developed a brand new franchise that excels on nearly every level. inFamous gives the PS3 library a huge jolt. If you are a PS3 owner, you can't afford to miss out on this awesome exclusive.

Jun 15th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

GameFocus (9 out of 10)

The overall quality of the game is not as high as I expected because I love the Sly Cooper games but as the first game this generation from Sucker Punch it makes this a must buy for PS3 owners. Just do not expect anything stellar or new in terms of gameplay, as we have seen much this game has to offer before and done slightly better.

May 28th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Da Gameboyz (9 out of 10)

InFamous is a game that I truly enjoyed playing through. With solid graphics, solid sound, and some great gameplay elements (e.g. Karma Moments), Sucker Punch did Sony right by offering up a great PlayStation 3 exclusive title. If you have a PS3 in your house you’d be doing yourself a disservice by not buying this game.

May 29th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

GamingTrend (89 out of 100)

inFamous is a classic example of a game that tried to do too much. This title has so much that it does so very right. The gameplay is rock solid with a living, breathing city as your playground to explore and enjoy. The sound quality and graphics are absolutely top notch and will leave you spellbound, and the story line (for the good side) has plenty of twists that will keep you enthralled for the entire time you’re playing. The evil playthrough, on the other hand, has too many things that just don’t fit. While the variety in powers attained by being either good or evil is entertaining and requires a different style of gameplay, it’s really not enough to make up for the plot shortcomings of the evil side. Be that as it may, this is definitely one of my must-have games for this year. It’s too bad it's so damn short!

Jun 25th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

PSX Extreme (8.9 out of 10)

All in all, inFamous is well worth the wait and well worth your cash. It's yet another fantastic exclusive to add to Sony's never ending list, and it's also yet another great action game to add to yours. inFamous plays extremely well, and has an unusually fun character to it, on top of an addictive one. It boasts a massive game world that you can scale fully and interact with extensively, on top of a game engine that makes it all happen with minimal issues. You've waited for a while now, and you should be happy to know this is a great game.

May 22nd, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

That Gaming Site (8.8 out of 10)

inFamous is a superhero fan's videogame wish come true. Cole is powerful, the story is fantastic, and the world you fight in is believable and relevant.

May 29th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Hellbored (8.8 out of 10)

inFamous does a lot of things right. The scaling of buildings is fun and although never as realistic as Assassin’s Creed, where each step upwards felt real, realism isn’t a key component here. Being able to slide along power lines and train tracks is a cool way of getting around and all part of inFamous’s core offering. Combat is challenging which is great and the story is well done. Overall, a well put together experience, and one worth checking out.

Jun 4th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Cheat Code Central (4.4 out of 5)

Regardless of the few nitpicky critiques I've made, inFAMOUS is a great effort. The five people I played this game with, including myself, all had a wonderful time. We spent hours passing the controller back and forth, giggling, and asserting our virtual dominance. And that's what this game is all about: having a ton of fun. The extremely user-friendly controls, deep open-world, loads of missions, and outrageous powers combine to make this one of the best titles to hit the PS3 to date.

May 22nd, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

IGN Australia (8.6 out of 10)

It may seem a bit of a leap for Sucker Punch to move from Sly Cooper to Infamous, but there’s absolutely continuity in design and gameplay here, just focused in a different direction. The team's talent is certainly evident once again, and we've thoroughly enjoyed playing through Infamous. Putting aside our minor quibbles with the predictable structure and repetition in missions, Infamous succeeds in countless areas. Most importantly, the movement and combat mechanics are fantastic, while the firefights (and the starring role of electricity) are a true spectacle. In this game the city is both your playground and your plaything, and you'll feel like a bad-ass.

May 12th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Gameplayer (Australia) (8.5 out of 10)

On the downside Infamous does feel a little rushed around the edges. If it had been given more time in the Sucker Punch labs it would have been an absolute powerhouse of a game. But while it certainly isn’t the graphical revelation it has been hyped to be, this is a game that is very much deserving of any PS3 owner’s hard earned cash. Or, to put it another way, Infamous can successfully generate 1.21 Gigawatts of fun, without the danger of setting anybody’s eyeballs on fire.

May 20th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Gameplanet (8.5 out of 10)

Coming away from playing through inFamous, my feelings are that it is a great game that is made up of elements that vary between being fairly average to outright excellent. It has issues that would have been resolved with a little more time in development but ultimately your enjoyment of playing as Cole will carry you through the low points.

May 22nd, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Play.tm (85 out of 100)

Eventually the look of the game grows on you, and once you're entrenched and engaged by the experience's many immersive activities, the entire thing begins to make sense and develops into one of the finest sandbox titles available for PS3. It may not reinvent the wheel as far as the open-world genre is concerned, but in crafting a suitably compelling and eminently playable title, Sucker Punch have shaken off the child-friendly shackles of their Sly Cooper games and produced something distinctly dark and mature, that simply demands to be played.

May 23rd, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Computer and Video Games (CVG) (8.5 out of 10)

It has its frustrations and we miss burning around in a car or the rumble of some good old-fashioned gunpowder, plus we think Crackdown pips it in the open-world action game league. But that won't stop you having a very amusing 25 hours of gaming (play it through twice, once good and once evil, and it's even longer).

May 20th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Video Games Daily (8.5 out of 10)

With its karma-driven electric fisticuffs, open-ended parkour antics and stylishly broody ambience, InFamous is a game worthy of Sucker Punch's slick PS2 releases, and a great addition to the PS3's increasingly formidable exclusive line-up. Shame about the story, but there's plenty to do by the wayside.

May 20th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

4Players.de (84 out of 100)

Eigentlich war hier Gold möglich! Aber erstens ist inFamous eher eine spröde Schönheit und kann als Exklusivtitel keine technischen Zeichen setzen. Im Gegenteil: Pop-Ups, Schattenflackern, Clippingfehler und Grafikbugs sind keine Seltenheit und belasten die AtmosphĂ€re. Diese offene Welt von Empire City verhĂ€lt sich zu der durchgestylten von Liberty City in etwa so wie Resistance 2 zu Killzone 2 - stimmungsvoll ja, aber nicht spektakulĂ€r. Hinzu kommt, dass man das Potenzial kleiner Geschichten nicht mal ansatzweise ausnutzt und die Nebenfiguren fast schon lieblos auftreten lĂ€sst, so dass der Hauch von Epos irgendwann verfliegt. Schade auch, dass die deutschen Sprecher nicht von Beginn an mit Leib und Seele dabei sind, so dass vor allem der Einstieg emotional und dramaturgisch zu wĂŒnschen ĂŒbrig lĂ€sst. Trotzdem bleibt unterm Strich ein angenehm umfangreiches und richtig gutes Spiel, in dem elektrisierende Superhelden-Action auf akrobatisches Jump'n Run-Flair trifft!

May 27th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Game Revolution (B+)

But the real reason to buy inFamous is that, regardless of your morality, it's just plain old fun being super-powered Cole in a city full of helpless mortals. And if you're a 360 owner lamenting the PS3 exclusivity, don't worry about it - just go pick up a copy of Crackdown instead.

May 22nd, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

The A.V. Club (B+)

A grand adventure in the mode of Marvel’s good old days.

Jun 1st, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Gaming Nexus (B+)

While the game does get a little repetitive on the first island, it's the second and third where it really takes off and the ending is full of win. Infamous is fun to play both as both good and evil but there are frustrations that can happen with traveling and difficulty of some of the fights.

Jun 18th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Computer Bild Spiele (1.9 out of 6)

Cole und Co. sehen cool aus, die StĂ€dte und Inseln sind weitlĂ€ufig und frei zu erkunden, die Missionen variabel, Coles Stimme prima, lediglich Freund Zeke nervt mit seiner krĂ€chzenden und albernen Quasselei. Zum Ausgleich sehen die comicartigen Animationen und Zwischensequenzen (fĂŒr Kenner: Graphic-Novel-Stil) toll aus – das unterstĂŒtzt die eh schon sehr stimmige AtmosphĂ€re ungemein. Aber Hauptsache ist das Spiel: Und da stimmt fast alles. Die Steuerung ist genau, die Story spannend, die Aufgaben langweilen nie. Schlichtweg „gut“.

May 26th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Boomtown (8 out of 10)

As a whole, though, inFamous is a pretty intense ride from start to finish. As frustrating as it can be to constantly have to keep your eye out for sources of electricity, the power it gives you is particularly enthralling. With an intriguing story and original, if painfully skillful, enemies, the game offers engagement through both narrative, likeable characters and respectable challenge.

May 29th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Gamervision (8 out of 10)

inFamous is a solid first effort for a new franchise. The game’s overall package is a bit uneven, but it’s easy to strike that up to growing pains, particularly since this is Sucker Punch’s first next-generation effort. There’s a lot of promise in this new series, and I hope that the inevitable sequel picks up on some of the high points of the experience and develops them further. inFamous was fun to play, and while it falls short of being great, the time I had playing the game was well worth every minute. I look forward to what Cole and Sucker Punch have in store for gamers in the future.

Jun 11th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Wired ( )

InFamous is often compared, especially by me, to Microsoft’s Crackdown, a similar game about a superpowered enforcer in a GTA-style open city. The similarities go beyond the superhero trappings. What makes both games great is the carrot-and-stick design that keeps you playing “just one more mission,” until it’s way past your bedtime.

May 27th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Games Finder (8 out of 10)

Infamous is an impressive experience that has everything you’d want from an open world adventure. The karma system and its effect on Cole and the game world are particularly well presented.

May 25th, 2014 · PlayStation 3 · read review

GameCell UK (8 out of 10)

Infamous is without doubt one of the best PS3-exclusive games you’ll get this year and will certainly keep you entertained with its plentiful combat and search-type missions. The story is regularly updated with superbly done manga/anime type cut scenes, and you’ll want to see it to the end – twice probably. It’s just a shame Cole isn’t a bit more "hero", and a little less "reluctant".

Jun 5th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

PAL Gaming Network (PALGN) (8 out of 10)

inFamous hits all the right notes but sometimes tends to miss. An electrifying experience well worth buying.

Jun 5th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Video Game Talk ( )

Infamous is a well-realized game. An open world title with a developed story that sucks you in and utilizing a Good/Evil system that makes you feel like you're part of a larger community. Cole's powers are impressive and a ton of fun to use. The whole thing is impressively packaged, with good graphics and fantastic sound. It's been a while since I've played a game as consistently interesting and enjoyable as Infamous.

Jun 5th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Hooked Gamers (8 out of 10)

Despite its numerous flaws it cannot be denied that the core experience which inFAMOUS provides is just plain fun. Anyone who enjoyed Crackdown will have a blast with this game and so will anyone else who is a fan of great platforming and free-flowing adventure games. It may leave a bit to be desired in a few areas, but you won’t find a more entertaining gaming blockbuster released so far this year. Not only that, but as soon as you are done playing one way, you will immediately want to go back and try the other karmic options so that you can see all of the superpowers available. inFAMOUS has its issues, but they never get in the way of it being a joy to play.

Jun 3rd, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Thunderbolt Games (8 out of 10)

inFamous isn’t quite the triple-A system-seller it could have been, but nonetheless it’s a solid entry into the open world genre and a worthwhile purchase for fans of Sucker Punch’s previous output. Surprisingly for a game with such a strong comic book feel, it sometimes seems like the world and characters lack personality, but if in future instalments the developers can address these few flaws and perhaps develop the narrative in a more evocative environment, they could easily have one of the best games in the genre on their hands. As it stands, inFamous is a lot of fun but slightly lacking in just a couple of key areas.

May 27th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Game Arena (8 out of 10)

I know this review has come across as pretty damning, and inFamous has its flaws. The reality is no game has ever really captured the essence of being a superhero/villain quite like inFamous has, and while it might take you a little while to get to a point where you are capable of really showcasing your powers - once there inFamous demolishes all other games. It's probably not going to sell PlayStation 3's, but it's a worthy addition to your library - if you haven't yet grown tired of the open world game formula, that is.

Jun 4th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Daily Game (8 out of 10)

The core mechanics, art direction and concept are great; it's just that the PS3-exclusive game needs more mission diversity, architecture variation and a slightly faster pace. InFamous is a solid step outside of Sly Cooper, and it's obvious that some of the platforming elements from those games have translated well into this more adult-oriented action RPG. But where the Sly Cooper games excelled at mission and gameplay variety, InFamous feels more like a baby step into a new realm and genre than it does a giant leap into the world of sandbox-game excellence.

Jun 1st, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

TotalVideoGames (TVG) (8 out of 10)

It's hard to fault inFamous, although there are a few issues that prevent it from being a genre defining must-have. Travelling down into the sewers to bring power back to different districts - in turn gaining a new ability - is perhaps overused, which can also be levelled at some of the main missions. We'd also suggest that the game suffers from a few visual glitches that detract from what's otherwise a good looking title. Objects pop into view on an alarmingly regular basis and there's a discernible pop of textures. Furthermore, inFamous' good/evil dynamic comes to a singular choice towards the end of the game, which does seem like a bit of a cop-out but makes it a little easier to go back to a saved game and check out the alternative ending.

May 21st, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

videogamer.com (8 out of 10)

inFamous might not be the triple-A exclusive we wanted it to be, but it's still a fine game and well worth adding to your PS3 collection. Had the first half of the game matched the far more entertaining later sections (where the super powers really come into their own) and the story been a bit more engaging throughout we'd be looking at one of the best open-world action games of all time. As we said, being a super hero isn't as easy as it sounds, but if Sucker Punch gets another chance it may well be able to create one of the very best.

May 20th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Blend Games ( )

The interesting thing is that even though the combat got tiring, the morality system felt underdeveloped and so on, I still feel my experience with inFamous was overwhelmingly positive. While yes, it can be a bit repetitive and you are performing the same basic actions over and over, those basic actions are a lot of fun. Grinding on power lines, scrambling across rooftops, and zapping criminals has a simple charm to it and it's likely I'll go back and finish all the side missions and collect some more Trophies now that the 10-15 hour campaign is over. If the entire campaign had been as good as the latter half was, that probably would've been enough to drown out most (if not all) of the game's shortcomings. As it stands, though, inFamous is a great start to a promising franchise.

May 31st, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Pelaajalehti (8 out of 10)

YllÀttÀvintÀ inFamousissa on se, kuinka paljon se tuntuu perinteiseltÀ toimintapeliltÀ eikÀ hiekkalaatikkolelulta. Sucker Punchin valitsema tyyli rullaa peliÀ eteenpÀin tavalla, jonka ansiosta edessÀ on koko ajan jonkinlainen pÀÀmÀÀrÀ. ElÀmÀÀ suurempi peli inFamous ei ole, mutta liikkuminen ja taistelu ovat loistavasti tasapainossa. Empire City on erinomainen hyppelyteline, mutta se on leikkikenttÀnÀ paljon riisutumpi kuin GTA- tai Saints Row -hiekkalaatikko. MielettömÀn tuhon tarvekin tulee tyydytettyÀ pÀÀ- ja sivutehtÀvissÀ, joten inFamous on kahden lÀpÀisykerran paketti. Tarina ja kÀytössÀ olevat supervoimat eroavat hyvÀn ja pahan vÀlillÀ juuri sen verran, ettÀ molemmat tekee mieli kokea. InFamous voisikin olla tÀmÀn vuoden Dead Space, eli omaperÀisyyttÀ kaipaava mutta ihastuttavasti rullaava peli, jolle toivottaisin tervetulleeksi jatko-osan.

Jun 3rd, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Game 2.0 (8 out of 10)

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Jun 9th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

GameNorth (79 out of 100)

A wise man once said that “with great power comes great responsibility,” and that holds true to both the gameplay found in inFAMOUS and the development of the game itself. The concept behind the game is brilliant, but Sucker Punch failed to adhere to their vision when producing it. The game shows a great deal of promise, and there is a lot of fun to be found in Empire City, but like much of the city itself, the game pales in comparison to what it could have been. The story is great, especially the surprises toward the end, but the path to unravelling it can feel repetitive and sluggish. The paths of good and evil and the corresponding upgrades will provide players with some replayability, but neither experience truly offers anything new.

Jun 10th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Gamers Daily News (7.5 out of 10)

So far, you've heard plenty of complaints. What’s good about inFamous then? It’s fun. Surprisingly, it is a fairly decent game, one that deserves credit. It has it’s hiccups, and won’t live in our memories forever, but inFamous treats players with a strong 10-15 hours of solid gameplay and a reasonable story. It’s especially convenient that this PS3 title doesn’t require installation and that load times aren’t a problem. With no multiplayer and almost no replayability, I can’t in good conscience recommend it for purchase. The perfect game to rent, but not a great purchase.

Jun 22nd, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Jeux Vidéo Network (15 out of 20)

PassĂ©e l’immense dĂ©ception technique, InFamous dĂ©voile ses qualitĂ©s Ă  travers les heures de jeu. VariĂ©, long, simple Ă  prendre en main
 Le titre de Sucker Punch parvient Ă  accrocher le joueur en quĂȘte d’un jeu d’action plateforme dĂ©foulant et Ă  l’ambiance adulte.

May 25th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

GameLemon (7.4 out of 10)

All in all, inFAMOUS was a fun enough diversion. It didn't do anything groundbreaking or particularly memorable, and it feels like the things that it tried to do in terms of pushing the envelope ended up as the worst aspects of the game. Fear not, though - this was simply the first excursion, as the end of the story mode implies that there will probably be a sequel. Let's just hope the development team learns from their mistakes come inFAMOUS 2: Electric Boogaloo (which is the most appropriate application of that catch-all subtitle ever.)

Jul 14th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Gamers' Temple, The (71 out of 100)

Much like with Assassin's Creed, people will herald inFamous as great about 5 minutes before they realize that the game gets just plain boring after you've done it all once or twice. For those that manage to keep playing through to the end, they'll uncover a slightly deeper, more intelligent game and story than found in Ubisoft's one-note top-seller, but not much of one. I would really like to shout from the rooftops just how awesome Sony's new exclusive is, and had I played the game for only about 20 minutes, I would have. But be wary of those who tell you this is a good one – inFamous looks great, and it's a lot of fun to just explore, but in the end it is merely a great concept held back by repetitive goals and a too-long playtime that most won't care to see through to the end.

Jun 10th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Games TM (7 out of 10)

inFamous is an ambiguous pleasure, full of nice ideas - most of which have been done better elsewhere - hugely ambitious but criminally unfinished, and very similar to another game that remains an unknown quantity. The last point is key because in another three weeks Prototype will be on the shelves next to it. Sony might want to force your hand by creating a gap, but don't be fooled. In this situation, patience is a virtue.

Jun 11th, 2009 · PlayStation 3

TheSixthAxis (7 out of 10)

inFamous is here, and it’s got a head start on Prototype. Whilst that in itself shouldn’t be a reason to buy the game we suspect the game will sell regardless because of its close ties to Sony and the PlayStation brand, and if enough of us splash out on the game there’s a chance Sucker Punch will bring back Sly. If you want something different for your PS3 then inFamous will fill the gap nicely and despite a seemingly negative review, overall we did enjoy the first play through because it’s a good game and the free-running and shooting are second to none.

May 25th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Eurogamer.net (UK) (7 out of 10)

There is more charm to inFamous than Cole's face and voice suggest, but basking in the glow of the end credits, there are also a lot of painful memories to recall; of too many missions that funnel you into shooting galleries, of difficulty spikes and enemy-spamming, and of staring at the upgrades page rather glumly, aware that for the most part you're only being invited to make things strike harder or across a broader range. But most of all, there is the realisation that by the end of the game you feel like more than a man, and the power is arresting, and yet for much of Cole's quest, you have been running out of ammo, hiding, and firing back with a popgun. The flaw is that inFamous overcomes Cole's lack of invention, but, damningly for a story about an electrical superhero, it never quite overcomes his lack of power.

May 20th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Gamestyle (7 out of 10)

Undoubtedly a good game, Infamous can be a very frustrating experience at times, mostly thanks to the overly-precise aim of the enemies and Cole feeling far too weak and vulnerable at times. The main story campaign overstays it's welcome slightly, but when the game is at it's best it's highly enjoyable. From the run down, gritty look of the city that is reminiscent of that seen in Dark Angel, to the urban platforming. The graphic novel-stylecutscenes are also impressive and add to the superhero vibe of the game. While there are too many annoyances for it to be a truly great game, Infamous offers an enjoyable sandbox experience with an interesting twist in the telling of a superhero story.

Jun 28th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Edge (7 out of 10)

But for all Infamous’ clumsiness of implementation and misjudged storytelling it remains a playground for Cole’s tremendous abilities, full of diversions that aren’t easily dismissed as busywork. When Cole gains a new devastating power and mutters, “Oh hell yeah,” it’s a rare moment when the script dovetails with your own thoughts. The game follows up with the opportunity to use the power at its most awesome; the heavens open, the world explodes in flame and you can’t help but emit a deep pantomime guffaw. At its best, Infamous is an amped-up Crackdown – a game about bounding across a cityscape, discharging your energies however you please. Even if ropey execution impedes its appeal, Infamous still has this essential spark.

Jun 5th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

GamesRadar (7 out of 10)

InFamous shows huge potential, but it’s ultimately held back from greatness by too-sticky controls and its surprisingly bland ruin of a city. It’s still fun, but there’s a lot of room for improvement in the strongly hinted-at sequel.

May 22nd, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

AusGamers (6.9 out of 10)

There are moments of excellence, but they're so few and far between, they're easily forgotten in the wake of all the tedium on offer. So much of the game is formulaic and old-school in a negative sense; you'll wonder how this wound up on a next-gen powerhouse like the PS3. There are far too many moments and ideas pulled directly from the Sly Cooper series to make inFAMOUS stand on its own two feet and when it does, it really is just fleeting. If you can make it through to the end, you deserve a trophy for perseverance, but if you've been waiting for a rock-solid PS3 exclusive to sink your teeth into, be prepared to be disappointed and just be thankful Uncharted 2 really isn't that far away.

May 27th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Game Critics (6.5 out of 10)

Having ended inFamous, the highest praise I feel I can honestly give it is that it's competent and essentially succeeds at what it sets out to do—Sucker Punch presents players with an open city, a character able to wield lightning, and a choice to be made between being good or being evil. (Or both, with a second play through.) This much is absolutely true, yet the parts that make up its identity never come together in any holistic, cohesive way. It never feels as though it's doing much more than going through the motions, and as a result, neither did I. Lacking the joy and spirit intrinsic to truly inspired projects, inFamous may have painted by the numbers correctly, but technical success is not the same thing as creating a brilliant masterpiece.

Jun 5th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Destructoid (6.5 out of 10)

You will not be godlike, you will probably get annoyed at some point with the difficulty and there are going to be some glitches. That said, it's still a fun game if you're willing to accept these shortcomings. It is not an amazing experience which will change your life but a very competent open-world shooter with some good ideas and a few shortcomings in the execution. It's very easy to recommend as a rental since the game can be completed on a spare weekend and absolutely worth playing once.

Jun 17th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Game Shark (C+)

It’s a polarizing game. The majority of it makes for a rock solid open-world action game. Infamous is demanding without being punitive, rewarding without being meaningful, and offers dilemma without consequence. For everything Infamous does well there’s a counter-balance of agitating design decisions. I enjoyed Infamous more as something I wanted to play, but the mounting frustrations made it a more enjoyable idea than it did a game.

Jun 24th, 2009 · PlayStation 3 · read review

Player Reviews

Sucker Punch's Electrifying New Entry on the PS3
by Carmelo Lia

The Good
From the creators of the 'Sly Cooper' trilogy on the Playstation 2, 'inFamous' is Sucker Punch's first endeavour into the seventh generation of videogame consoles, exclusively released for the Playstation 3 in 2009. It remains one of the most original and free-flowing sandbox games ever made.

The concept revolves around bike messenger Cole McGrath, who is tricked into making a delivery containing an electrically-charged explosive device which blasts the once thriving Empire City (fictitious) into an apocalyptic wasteland. Thanks to his girlfriend Trish's (who is a nurse) attention and help, Cole regains consciousness on day fourteen after the catastrophic event, which is referred to by the people of Empire City as 'The Blast', with new super power abilities powered by electricity.

Cole is soon branded a terrorist by the people of Empire City and by his friends and close ones as well, who begin to suspect that he had something to do with it. Trish, in particular, blames Cole for the loss of her sister Amy when she learns that he was the one who delivered the bomb. Despair, paranoia and chaos overcome Empire City. A plague breaks out, numerous factions are constantly competing for control over the game's three districts, and the authorities have seemingly abandoned the people. The player is tasked with the choice of the path Cole must follow, either good or evil, in his quest to find the truth, avenge himself or the people of Empire City and to unleash the full extent of his newly found super powers.

First of all, a super hero/villain, depending on which path you follow, who depends on electricity as the source of his power is genius. In the brightly-lit streets of the Neon district, the district the player starts the game in, you really feel like an electrified superman, even with so many enemies harassing you at every corner. However, as you progress through the game you can 'liberate' certain areas from enemy control by completing certain side missions, like destroying a fixed number of surveillance cameras or racing past and collecting information from satellite uplinks. 'Liberated' areas then start to be re-inhabited by civilians, for although the city has been significantly devastated by 'The Blast', the city's resilient citizens are keen to restore it to its former glory.

Later on, you get to throw shock grenades, summon lightning storms and fly using static thrusters (!), to mention but a few of Cole's amazing abilities, besides his normal 'jolts' (or lightning shots) which do not drain his 'energy'. By 'energy' what is meant is Cole's capacity to use these special abilities, which drain a certain amount of energy from him each time they are used. This forces Cole to be resourceful and recharge at every possible opportunity. And in areas which have the power cut off by the enemy, you really feel the difference and it just shows how much Cole, like the modern man, is heavily dependent on electricity.

The game’s style is probably one of its most redeeming features as well. It is inspired by the storytelling common in graphic novels, which perfectly suits this sort of super hero type game. And its characters also fit such a style perfectly. From Cole's best friend Zeke 'Jedediah' Dunbar's humour, to the main Villain Kessler's petrifying aura, 'inFamous' sets the standard for future super hero games.

As a PS3-exclusive title, it is obvious that 'inFamous' pushes the PS3's hardware to its limits. First of all, there are no loading screens throughout the game, and the game never lags even with ten plus enemies on the screen, numerous explosions and enemy gunshots, and countless NPCs helping and running away from you. A huge plus is that every time you die, you are immediately respawned at the nearest medical clinic, saving you a lot of time. The graphics were exceptional for the time as well, especially when it is sunny (during certain segments of the game the weather becomes very dismal). Looking at one of the game's vistas in the district of the Warrens next to a medical clinic, at one of the bridges I very laboriously helped to lower to connect the Neon and the Warrens districts together, made me more emotional than any game has made me feel for a long time.

The Bad
'inFamous', despite all of its redeeming qualities, does have both major and minor oversights.

Since the game allows the player to choose either a good or evil path, it challenges the player with some hard moral choices throughout the game. One of the most memorable is [spoilers ahead] when Kessler asks you to choose between opting to save Trish or to save six doctors, a typical super hero dilemma. Kessler also emphasizes the good that six doctors are able to do for the community and that there is no way to save them all at the same time. If you save the doctors, you are doing a good deed and is rewarded with Karma, and viceversa for Trish. However, the choice the player is given is ultimately gimmicky, as I learnt on my second playthrough of the game. There is no way you can save Trish, for example. If you decide to save the doctors, then Trish falls and dies. If you decide to save Trish on the other hand, it turns out that Trish is one of the doctors hanging from the other building.

The only choice that is given a substantial amount of significance is whether or not to destroy the ray sphere, the mysterious device that gave Cole his powers, near the end of the game. If you choose not to destroy the ray sphere, you are give some extra blast cores (sort of batteries enabling you to use more powers) and some more power, but this supposedly causes the death of thousands (the effect is not really felt) and Cole gets a permanent evil Infamous ranking, even if the player had been following the good storyline up till this point. That is clearly a minor oversight, because some people have commented that it is impossible to beat the game from that point with a new karma choice.

Also, it kind of sucks that the game is much easier if you opt to collect evil karma instead of good, because, instead of cumbersomely restraining an enemy every time, you get to drain his life when Infamous instead, which replenishes Cole's health and energy. Civilian casualties count in your favour when Infamous as well, while it is a real challenge to hurt as few people as possible with your attacks when following the good path. The only advantage I got is the personal satisfaction I felt after helping Empire City's community instead of crippling much more [spoiler end].

Another element that I dislike about this game is that you are forced to collect blast shards. Blast shards, charged remnants of 'The Blast', are scattered throughout the map and there are 350 in total. After collecting a certain number, you will gain an additional blast core. It would have been alright if they were simple collectibles, but you simply have to collect at least 300 if you want to beat this game for those blast cores, which is a very laborious task to complete. Take my case as an example. I have already beaten the game and collected all the blast shards, but I decided to play the game again. I was forced to collect all the shards again, which is a bother to say the least.

I did experience some minor glitches as well, such as falling through the ground, but beyond that there is really nothing else to complain about such an excellent game.

The Bottom Line
'inFamous' was PS3's 2009 game of the year in my opinion. Its critical success marked the beginning of an excellent series, which is well into the eight generation by now, and which I am sure will be around for much longer.

Mar 26th, 2016 · PlayStation 3

Sophisticated and entertaining
by Daniel Saner

The Good
First of all, I want to say that I have almost no interest in comic books at all, I usually steer clear of any movies or games based on them because I don't like all too unrealistic, over the top tales of supernatural powers and stereotyped villains that never actually die. Because of that, I would probably never have played inFAMOUS, had it not been bundled with my recently bought PS3 system. I am very glad I did get to play it, because it is one of the most fresh and enjoyable action games I have played in the last couple of years.

While the story of Cole is indeed one of many implausibilities and supernatural powers, I was able to dive right in because it breaks with one genre convention: the clear separation of the characters into the selfless good, and the diabolically evil. It is the story of a regular man that discovers he has powers, and is unsure what to do with them. This very human perspective on sudden and immense power being given to an individual, a topic that has been discussed a lot in literature and movies, gives the game philosophical meaning and roots it in reality. Also, although the decisive moments are clearly described situations with either a good or an evil outcome, they are no simple questions of "be a hero" or "be the villain and see how that works out" as found in some other games that boasted this kind of good/evil character development.

One of your first decisions in the game will be: will you distribute a food supply drop among the population who mostly hate you for a crime you didn't commit, but some clown in the television claims you did - or will you keep the food for yourself so you can take care of your best friend and your girlfriend? You know what would be the right thing to do, but if you're honest, you might choose quite differently if you were in the same situation for real. This is what I want to make clear to people who show as little interest in comics as me: even though the game looks, sounds, and feels like a comic book, it does not contain most of the things that you might hate about them. The game relies heavily on them for creative inspiration, but it is just a theme and in no way implies that the game itself resembles a typical cookie-cutter franchise cash-in.

This also saves the game in the graphics department. A lot of games today are praised for their visuals, while all they do is show off every visual effect possible without even considering whether it makes any sense, or whether it destroys the atmosphere of the game. Exaggerated motion blur, bloom effects to the point where the whole picture is just a big, mushy blob - it might look good in a technical demo, but it's not pretty to look at in a game. Luckily for inFAMOUS, comic books can have over the top colors and effects. Make no mistake, there's always something flashing or glowing or rippling or blurring here, but it does not look ridiculous because the game doesn't try to be realistic in the first place. If the creators don't try to convince you that everything shown could happen for real, it is a lot less disruptive to see a man float in a sea of sparks while bridging a power line. But the visuals are also very nice artistically, beautifully conveying the picture of a dark, post-apocalyptic city. Empire City isn't that big, but you won't find hundreds of alleyways that all look the same. Every corner of the city has its own characteristic look. The stylized hand-drawn cutscenes are perfectly composed and a pleasure to look at as well.

Being able to freely move around in the city is one of the main features of the game. Just as in titles of the Grand Theft Auto series, the city will gradually open up when solving missions, which can be triggered by approaching certain areas or characters. And like any self-respecting superhero or super villain, you will mostly travel up and down buildings and across rooftops. To this end, the buildings are outfitted with ridiculous amounts of ledges, railings, signs, tubes, and other stuff you can climb or grab on to. Cole is very agile and can often jump and climb to the roof of a building using only window ledges. The developers stated that a great deal of work went into making sure that Cole will grab exactly the object the player was aiming for. I am glad to say that it shows, and scrambling around the city is a blast because it feels so natural. As a computer scientist, I can really appreciate the effort that the programmers must have put into this code.

The city is populated with a large number of people minding their business. Of course, they will react according to Cole's reputation in their neighborhood. If he has done some good work, citizens will cheer him on; if not, they might even throw stones at him! Apart from that, these people clearly exist in the world you see around them: trapped in a city with violent street gangs, a spreading disease, and not enough food. People kneel on the street, praying because they are so hungry. They sit on benches, being cold and shivering. They mourn friends they have lost, they cry and ask when all of this is going to end. Whenever you're taking a break from all your colorful ass-kicking duties as a superhero, you see a disturbing picture of a city in suffering and desperation, making for a really immersive experience.

Another strong point is how well thought out the aspects of electricity and Cole's powers are. Metal objects conduct electricity, and an always charged Cole gets shocked to death if he falls into water. Even when walking through a little puddle in the streets, you can see little electric arcs on its surface. I think it was a great decision to focus on just one phenomenon as the source of Cole's powers. Not only did it allow the creators to come up with all sorts of funny details, it also makes discovering new abilities more like seeing Cole gaining control over a power he already has, rather than just unlocking some new and unrelated feature.

Also, the aspect of reclaiming territory from the Reapers is fun. Having to go back and defend secured territory again every couple of minutes, as for example in Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, is just cumbersome and not very enjoyable. You will not lose any reclaimed territory in inFAMOUS, which makes fighting for them a lot more satisfying. Territorial battles also integrate well into the game's storyline and don't feel like something that has been added just to prolong the game. You will complete different missions for each of the areas, instead of just repeating the same chore again and again.

The Bad
Some of the character animations are a bit weird. Especially running main characters move very mechanically. They move at a speed that is completely unrelated to the movement of their feet. It looks so out of place that it is impossible to ignore. I also didn't like that you cannot skip cutscenes. They are indispensable for the story of the game, but if you are retrying a mission and have seen it twice already in the last 5 minutes, you're not always keen on watching it again, especially if it's a minute long. Apart from these minor nuisances, I cannot think of anything negative to say about the game.

The Bottom Line
What inFAMOUS excels at is the most important aspect of any game: it is fun to play, and keeps your interest. Motivation is at a constant high because there is always something to do, it rarely gets repetitive, and there's always some new part of the mysterious story or the game world to uncover. In most games I reach a point where the story starts to drag along, the developers noticeably tried to just make the game last longer, and the only real motivation to keep me going is that I want to see how it all ends. inFAMOUS is one of the very few games that never stalled like that. Although of course after finishing the game you will want to play it again taking the other path, much more important is the fact that you will not simply do that to see the other ending, but because the first time was such a blast.

Fans of the genre will probably already own the game anyway, because of the exceptional professional reviews it got. If you are anything like me, however, and action-oriented games usually start boring you after a while, take my advice and give inFAMOUS a try anyway, it might surprise you. With no big flaws at all, the game can deliver its true potential as something more than just another superhero action game.

Jul 4th, 2009 · PlayStation 3

Plus 37 player ratings without reviews

Contributors to this Entry

Critic reviews added by JudgeDeadd, Baron79, Wizo, chirinea, Rebound Boy, Cavalary, beetle120, Alsy, Patrick Bregger, Jess T, Cantillon, Sonikku225, DreinIX, Jeanne, Big John WV, Tim Janssen.