ASTRAL CHAIN (First Thoughts) - Happy Console Gamer

[@lukevega77]

This is the review I’ve been waiting for!!!

[@lukevega77]

After watching the review, finished the episode of Mindhunters I was watching and drove straight to Best Buy and bought it!

[@re0rden724]

Me too! 👍🏻👏🏻

[@giorno_1234]

Akihiko reference right now

[@hartfantom]

If you have to wait for a review to appeal to your biases then you are truly weird 😂

[@shuny11r23]

Dude there was only 1 copy left at my local GameStop. I was lucky enough to snag it. Hope it sells well. I want this to become a franchise.

[@Peter666Nelson]

Yeah that was my thought ad well though I cannot wait for Bayonrtta3..seems I was a platinum fan before I realised it..I got Madworld on wii and Bayonetta on 360..now with Bayonetta 2 on switch and Nier automata on ps4 and now this astral chain....they are all great games in their own right but I just realised they were all platinum like 2 years ago...have my eyes open for future releases..btw any older games I should play by platinum?

[@baltoderpfish9471]

@@Peter666Nelson Wonderful 101 is a little weird but its a fantastic game highly recommend. Its a wii u game though so unless they port it you will have to get a wii u or emulate it on PC.

[@shuny11r23]

Peter Nelson Check out Vanquish if you have a chance.

[@shuny11r23]

balto derpfish I remember buying Wonderful 101. It was so weird that I couldn't beat the 1st level mid boss. I put it down for months cause I didn't understand it. Then I saw some videos about the game pop up on KZbin. After that I decided to give a try again. Started a new game, got a handled of the controls and I ended up getting Hooked. Couldn't put it down. I got used to using the analogs for the weapon shapes instead of the touchscreen. Felt like it was the best way to get it done. The game is awesome, hope it gets a port someday.

[@regprez7563]

Same here, I met to pre order. But I also got the last one..the rest were pre orders to be picked up.

[@PurLeafTeaCo]

Your energy and excitement about games is infectious and was truly a joy to behold. I love the positive attitude you bring to this space of game reviews and conversation. Thank you!

[@wiseguy100]

This is the review I was holding out for. Deffo buying the physical version tomorrow. Cheers, Fella.

[@kannon0216]

wiseguy100 hope you grabbed a copy! I am in love with this game. It’s so amazing.

[@viyuden]

first port of call for me. Halfway through the review then ordered it.

[@wiseguy100]

Joshua James I certainly did. Loving it so far.

[@KJW2149]

I gotta say bro I have purchased a lot of games based on your reviews, very sincere, so this is definitely gonna be a buy for me.

[@sora764]

I am about 5 hours in and absolutely love it. It has been a while since i have been this hooked to a game so fast.

[@joshuarogers5563]

He doesn't ever lie. This is no exception. This is Platinum at their finest! The graphics, the music, the gameplay, and the story all come together near perfectcly!!! I cleared the first two acts and just freakin wow, Nintendo is on a roll!!!

[@hueyrileyandjazmine]

I LOVE this game so far! Only on Ch 3 but I’m super surprised on how satisfying and unique it really is! Switch has another phenomenal game under its belt!

[@DarshanBhambhani]

Brandon Leiba I feel like the impact of attack on enemy isn’t strong enough but I still love this game The amount of stuff to do is incredible and attack is stylish and unique good game

[@hueyrileyandjazmine]

Darshan Bhambhani Definitely super stylish man. Might end up being my second favorite game of the year behind DMC 5!

[@sladey21]

Is there much exploration and side quests?

[@zerometallord]

@@sladey21 if you want to 100% the chapter and have enabled the P+ difficulty where it rates your performance, yes... since you will be looking for stuff to do, from picking up trash cans to looking up for the bathroom stalls which you need to unlock on every area... yeah....

[@sladey21]

@@zerometallord thanks for the input.

[@dsjanc]

I just purchased it & I'm 43 yrs old today! as u r! I loved Bayonetta 2 on Wii U. That's why I got Astral chain.

[@geekyskye4279]

I’m loving this game so far. The moment my character was on the bike I was hooked. I totally understand how you felt.

[@yandman26]

I played the first intro section before I went to bed and was blown away. I then re started the game just to play that section again. It is so good. I was instantly sucked in. It feels like you're playing an anime crossed with an 80's action film. It's now 3:48 a.m and I'm slipping downstairs to grab my switch and play some more. For me this is the best game on the Switch yet.

[@jw6588]

100% agree with everything this dude is saying. I picked up the collector's edition on a whim and it blew my mind all evening. I'd still be playing if I wasn't working this morning.

[@michaelsell6328]

I'm in the same boat. Bought it this morning and couldnt put it down till I had to go to work.

[@jw6588]

@@michaelsell6328 I'm off work and heading back to it!🤩

[@Senangberhitung]

How long does it end is it truly just 25 hours gameplay??

[@gideonnavs2747]

Gufta Alvian 35 hrs if you do everything

[@hr-g4640]

The cyberpunk atmosphere was actually Nintendo's idea, Platinum wanted it to be a medieval phantasy like Chaos Legion

[@MastaGambit]

Dude i'd be down for that

[@hr-g4640]

@@MastaGambit Nintendo told them that they had a lot of medieval phantasy franchises already, since this is a Nintendo IP

[@hr-g4640]

@@MastaGambit xenoblade, Zelda, golden sun, and monolith soft is making a mother medieval game, Nintendo has too many IPs like that, this is better, people will get bored of medieval games eventually

[@dreamerabe]

@@hr-g4640 Definitely.

[@dcta51]

@@hr-g4640 dont forget fire emblem

[@Flaris]

Sounds pretty awesome. One more game to add to my list to get in the future. The Switch has really built up a nice catalogue of games.

[@Eagles4life221]

It has?

[@lum1notryc828]

Alien Pumpkinhead You must not have a switch lol

[@Eagles4life221]

Oofle Doofle It’s lacking in triple A games. And I obviously do.

[@scottw4866]

@@Eagles4life221 of course it does 🙄

[@tjlnintendo]

Alien Pumpkinhead It has a pretty great line up of exclusives and indie titles. Some decent 3rd party for a handheld.

[@TheGamingCircle]

First scene with the bike, I knew this would be Epic!!! ...My favourite game of the year across all platforms so far:-)) PS: I have the sound selection CD Johnny:-))

[@kadosho02]

Amazing to see a game like this exist. Platinum knows how to create art, music, and wonder

[@coffybloffy4566]

Aaaahh that FEELING when a game feels like a game! That is rare this Days!

[@O1OO1O1]

What do you mean? Sounds like you're talking about good games vs less good games. They're all games, though.

[@Elmo128]

@@O1OO1O1 More Simulators than games. Games with magic, not just shooting, for example.

[@coffybloffy4566]

Leme try explain. Imagine the first time you lets say played ur all time favorite game. The feeling when you play is FUN. IT FEELS fun all The time. Its fresh. You dont get bored whith it. You even wana play it again on new game plus. Etc etc.

[@shecklesmack9563]

I know what you mean. I’ve felt that many times on Switch, most standout examples being Mario Odyssey and Splatoon 2. It’s just that magical feeling like being a kid and playing a classic that sticks with you.

[@mokachinho8765]

@@O1OO1O1 Cinematic-driven games, simulators... Gimme arcadey campy fun!

[@Justkatie2012]

If Johnny is blown away.... I’m headed to the store to get it now!!! He preached the gospel and I’m going to be a convert!!! Awesome 👏 review HCG!!!

[@michaelsell6328]

Bought it this morning and it is just as good as he says it is. The combat is so fresh and new.

[@Justkatie2012]

Just got home about to pop it in

[@GrumpyRetroGamers]

Hey I came here for Astro Train. [Ben]

[@O1OO1O1]

What's that about a strong brain?

[@AllThingsGundam]

@@O1OO1O1 You all are pulling my Chain, lol! I love this game!

[@hollywooda111]

Awesome review!, love the way you talk personally about the game. So many reviewers just talk stats and mechanics you made this feel like a conversation with a trusted friend. Subbed!

[@fastica]

I literally bought it after watching this video for a couple of minutes.

[@nephtalievargas1714]

Me too

[@Zaylio]

I legit just bought it and I’m waiting for it to download, I can’t wait 😤😤😤

[@blackhippy47149]

Buying it tomorrow due to this video as well

[@morrissimpson2347]

Me too

[@chantorfo]

Best decission ever I guarantee

[@jimmyharrison5411]

Man, I am getting a switch tomorrow. This is my first purchase because I am an anime Appleseed junkie and this is right up my alley. Great vid bro!

[@chantorfo]

Being a fan of 90’s anime like evangelion, ghost in the shell or cyberpunk related animes, this is a dream came true

[@bk9509-o2o]

Can't wait to play this. The Switch rocks.

[@Mel_Everything_and_Anything]

Ok thats it bye.. Im buying this game now..

[@skyisdeaf904]

You won't be disappointed.

[@Mel_Everything_and_Anything]

@@skyisdeaf904 thanx man, getting it now, appreciate your comment.

[@joaquinarchivaldoguzmanloe1073]

Should i get it?

[@Mel_Everything_and_Anything]

@@joaquinarchivaldoguzmanloe1073 playing it right now... YES you should, guess ill pend fire emblem because of astral chain.. 😁

[@joaquinarchivaldoguzmanloe1073]

i want to but idk if it’s my kind of game compare it to a ps4 game lol

[@NintendoCade]

Johnny is onto something here. I have just played it and it is SOLID and a must buy! Its sooo good! Great review pal. :)

[@alfwaibel4773]

I forgot how I am a big fan of your enthusiasm. Game bought, channel (finally) subscribed.

[@orel1996]

I love your positive energy Johnny. Thanks for helping me love my hobby

[@gearhadez]

I'm 10 hours in and it's absolutly a goty contender for me. Love every second of it. Artstyle, world building, gameplay, sidequests, graphics, soundtrack - all on point! I feel 100% the same about this masterpiece as you. :)

[@Dingisman]

Played the game for like 3 hours so far. This game seems very special and looking forward to playing some more

[@Dingisman]

10 hours in. The game got way more complicated after file 02 but I'm actually having more fun with more mechanics. Again, I feel like this game is really special

[@The_AniMan]

Johnny, your enthusiasm for the hobbies I share with you are EXACTLY why I love watching your videos, glad you couldn't hold back! To be honest, I don't look at action games often, but the hype has been infectious and your thoughts have pushed me over. As a fellow 90s anime fan I was making the same aesthetic comparisons, seeing the impact this has had on you removed any doubts I had. Enjoy the rest of the game! :D Edit: VERY disappointed to listen to the composer's samples at www.platinumgames.com/official-blog/article/10303 and discover that there is no soundtrack available for purchase.

[@illusion274]

I couldn't agree more. Within the first chapter I knew this game was going to be something special. Also was very shocked on how good it looks and runs even in handheld mode.

[@MrValgard]

lol i had that toy 0:15 as kid, didn't even know how is called xD

[@smcwr]

MrValgard my cousin had it and I never knew it either!

[@reyrico5807]

I will get this as soon as this hurricane goes by. I would have gotten it day one but..we need to prepare for the hurricane

[@miscalotastuff733]

Hope you guys will be okay. Please get through the hurricane in one piece.

[@osenator]

This is really making me want to finally get a switch.

[@blackhippy47149]

I just got mine yesterday

[@syahmieshahar1679]

Wait for Switch Lite. I'm waiting for it.

[@chayob8914]

Syahmie Shahar Why? You can’t even play switch lite on your tv.

[@dreamerabe]

@@chayob8914 So? Some people won't care about that.

[@camb3284]

chayo b the switch is more of a portable console for some people, so they won't use it a lot at home. Switch lite is perfect for that

[@MaleTears]

I love that 90's house/dance soundtrack

[@camdendomville]

Dude I was saying the same thing I have not played games in awhile and this game is making me fall in Love with games again great review man in the Frist 5 mins I was hook more games need to be like this

[@davidartrip85]

I’m with you man 100%. I had my headphones on and playing this thing in handheld and have just been really, really impressed. If I’m not playing it, I’m thinking about it and just wanting to dive back in. That’s how I know it’s a really special game. It’s stylish, beautiful, fun, quirky, over the top, and the sound and music are top notch. My favorite Platinum game so far for sure.

[@arturius9715]

Woh woh woh bro....better than Nier Automata?

[@mmo4754]

Even if I never play this, I'm always stoked when you find a game that impresses and pleases you.

[@justanotherrandomontheyout4791]

Great now there's another game I have to buy r.i.p my wallet

[@ChaosDragons211]

I just ordered fire emblem and I walked into my local gameshop and ended up buying this too, now Im broke

[@ChaosDragons211]

I dont mind not eating for 2 weeks 🤣

[@emptydeathnote]

Simon Stevenson I’ve been playing all day the game is such eye candy!!

[@Itzz_isabell_]

Me too and there’s Zelda and Dragon Quest 11 on the way 😫

[@critchit]

@@ChaosDragons211 I did the exact same thing lol. I bought Fire Emblem last week to fill the void this game caused by not being out last week lol.

[@cqllel5186]

Went out to get the game this morning! Just got done playing it, too. Got 10 hours into it today! :D

[@jaeger264]

Thank you man, the only review í wait for is yours, you always talk truth and heart.

[@xleaselife]

I was so excited for this game. I picked it up after getting off of work this morning. I only played the opening, but I felt EXACTLY like you, John. Like this game is made for me. What a triumph it appears to be.

[@darkridearts]

Xleaselife me too. The gameplay feels amazing and it has a 90s anime feel in a way.

[@sirchezdreammachine5112]

My first impressions hour in it reminds me of the devil summoner 3 that ATLUS should of made THANK YOU PLATINUM you rock

[@meccashazmaru]

sirchez dreammachine this comment actually sold me on it

[@billcrabtree8700]

New to your channel, your enthusiasm is contagious.

[@terriermonisgod]

This game should've sold more. Now when people are whining about no new games, they should look at older games they missed. This is a gem and crazy to think it's running on switch

[@JCity17]

I’m 36, and at this point in my life it is a big deal to be playing a game I’m confident I’ll be able to put in my top 5 or 10 games of all time. I don’t know how it will end up, but it has such a strong chance based on what I’ve played so far of potentially being top 5.

[@darkridearts]

JCity 17 I feel exactly the same way

[@ewanfraser]

It’s been one hell of a week. I got Remnant, loved it, Control, loved it and now I got Astral Chain. It’s tough to drop so much $$ on games but these games are so good.

[@dos_feratu]

You had me at Bubblegum Crisis, A.D. Police and Bladerunner.

[@tehzerp]

I'm glad someone else got a Silent Mobius vibe from the game. Nobody else knew what I was talking about

[@sophiagodsfrend]

haven’t seen you like this since Zelda BOTW! Sold! lol:) love you!

[@metalfuk69]

Or when Rob is over at his place hahaha. Cheers guys! 😎🍻

[@Minotaka]

John, random but I must say I really appreciate your channel. You’re endlessly enjoyable to listen to and you don’t rely on these jump cuts in editing your video. Keep up the good work!!

[@harlemrd3548]

The way you talk about games, the way you think and review them is so absolutely convincing. You are the reason I want to play this game. I will pick this up when I’m done with Grandia II.

[@andrews4731]

Thank you for a fantastic review man! My favorite part of getting a new game, besides playing it, is finding a review that echoes my feelings about that game. Positive and excited, that's the way to feel about great gaming and your review makes it all that much better!

[@robertelliott2216]

This is basically (on Switch Lite) a handheld game!!!Man games have come so far for this Space Invaders kid!!

[@O1OO1O1]

Not really, though. They were doing shit like this on Snes and other similar consoles. They just weren't as powerful, so now that they have power, when you match that up with similar techniques, this is the result. But at the time, there were plenty of games that, for that technology, was pretty amazing.

[@metalfuk69]

I feel the same and I'm a super mario bros era kid haha.

[@robertelliott2216]

Bruce you are either foreign or moronic.I don't remember stuff like Astral Chain on the SNES and I don't remember the SNES being handheld.

[@miscalotastuff733]

I know a couple of xbox and playstation people who really wanted this game on their consoles.

[@tjlnintendo]

Are they the ones review bombing this game on meta critic?

[@ShinobiSyns]

Silent Mobius, Bubblegum Crisis, AD Police, or Evangelion. damnn i wasnt subscribed...but with some anime knowledge like that..with always great videos. sub it up! great video man made me more pumped up to play Astral Chain!

[@vengenaceearly255]

I really am glad to hear it. I was hoping that Astral Chain would be great. Thank you again for your thoughts.

[@vengenaceearly255]

@Joel Johnson 👍

[@retroboyone3577]

I agree with you brother, it's pretty close to a masterpiece in my book they hit big with this .

[@jeremy2684]

They have a collectors edition for this game I have it and it comes with the soundtrack

[@jeremy2684]

@@retromario6130 I didn't get it in America it came from Europe

[@NANGSGARAGE]

Send it this way please bro 👍

[@atmosphericfloatything2472]

Collector's Edition is amazing, soundtrack already on in car for the commutes.

[@Terranigma23]

It's a sound selection, not the full soundtrack, but really good songs on it. 😁

[@atmosphericfloatything2472]

I'm happy with a sound selection containing 31 tracks :)

[@Z3roFlaw]

Couldn’t agree more! I’m absolutely loving this game and I don’t want to rush through it. It’s so damn good. Graphics are unbelievable on switch and the gameplay ramps up and you get more confident in your abilities and you’re able to chain attacks into marvelous combos

[@hyrulesurfer1]

I got it this afternoon and I only had time to play through the intro tutorial and I could tell that this game is truly special. It oozes quality, just like you said.

[@motte-8131]

I was sold from the first frames of the first trailer, then the music kicked in. So glad I got the soundtrack in the collectors edition

[@MJ-mw6ok]

This is looking insanely awesome. Fantastic video as always man. This is my go-to channel for a daily dose of gaming passion. Please never stop.

[@MrKaprione]

The music often makes me reminisce about the Xenoblade chronicles X ost...amazing, utterly amazing!

[@sidplays77]

Played up to file 3 last night and was like hitting the capture button every 2 secs to take pics so I could marvel at them offline. This things looks INCREDIBLE the art work and design is spot on.

[@mrswolls]

Man this guys enthusiasm just lifts you up 👍

[@nikolowolokin]

Hell yeah!! Not gonna lie, you had me a bit worried at the beginning, HCG. Was prepared to hear you not enjoy it or think it was a bit overhyped. But praise be!!! Platinum delivers again, definitely picking this up asap! Thanks for the impressions!!

[@BrotherYusuf]

Enjoying your videos have done for years but just clicked to subscribe now but appreciate all the great content

[@MrMarvell]

I am only 2 hours in and I am blown away by everything in this game, definitley game of the year material and your right about the soundtrack, it is the highest quality.

[@drew8235]

I can't even watch. I've basically seen nothing about it but knew I wanted it immediately.

[@nintendad8168]

Had to check your channel before I buy it I’ve wanted it for so long and today is the day my friend . So glad you love it now I can go spend my money happily

[@unabridgeddiversion8236]

Thought I would wait till Monday to get a hard copy.. watch this, downloading now! Thanks as always John man!

[@nomadscorpio]

I pre-ordered it, have it downloaded, just waiting to get home to play it! :)

[@donmcron3334]

Nicholas Spesia sane. I’m actually not that excited about it but hopefully it surprises me. It looks pretty.

[@MrEPIC0CITY]

Seriously man, thank you. Never played a Platinum Games game before and I was entirely swayed by your enthusiasm in this review. It gave me the confidence into jumping into this gem and wow, my opinion is flipped. This was incredible and a departure from my usual gameplay interests. Thank you for your early review of this, never would have played this without you. Utterly impressed by the vision of this game! Been needing this game a long time!

[@samuelgardner1069]

haven't gotten the game yet. I've been looking forward to it, but I've been playing/hooked on Fire Emblem as I'm sure tons of people are. And I also got my physical copy of the Collection of Mana, and I want to play Trials or Trails of Mana (whatever the unreleased US one is). I kind if also want to dive into the other 2 games that come in that. However, after listening to your review for this, I may just have to say screw it... and go get it anyways. Usually i can buy a game and let it sit if i need to, but Astral Chain would be hard to do that with lol. GREAT video AS ALWAYS! Keep up the great work bud.

[@ReconWo1f]

I love that bit in the The Transformers The Movie when the decepticons get owned by Optimus Prime in the sequence where The Touch by Stan Bush is played in the background. Then they all run away, I think soundwave is carrying an injured Megatron to the inside of astro train and Starscream literally screeches "Astro Train take off!" epic love Astro Train

[@Kuuppon]

Right there with you. Already on File 6 (chapter wise) and man this game never lets up on the music and the 90s futuristic cyberpunk aesthetic. It feels so good to just sit down and have a game you get every bit of bang for your buck. Platinum never disappoints. It reminds me of Xenoblade Chronicles X too with a little nod to various other cyberpunk-esque anime and old school movies. Just beautiful.

[@Thefahkinggamers]

I Had absolutely no want to get or play this game with all the new releases this fall. After seeing this video I ran to the store and bought it up and I have been blown away. If it wasn't for you making this video I may have missed out on game of the year contender. Thanks man!

[@Thefahkinggamers]

Thanks for the like!

[@James-gj8rn]

The Nueron HQ music is so bloody good and the graphics are absolutely gorgeous (how can this run on Switch? like, what the heck)

[@NANGSGARAGE]

But I’m still playing Fire Emblem lol Just about to start my third play through

[@sladey21]

Is it a long game?

[@macruz8503]

NANGSTAGRAM TV:Bro put that game down and get hip with Astral Chain!

[@codyvandal2860]

I cant force myself through the tutorial lol

[@jrmy198523]

I bet it looks freakin great on the OLED version handheld mode.

[@luisverde13]

Maaan you literally voiced my thoughts just now with EVERYTHING you said!!

[@jimsface]

I love your attitude! You’ve earned a sub

[@MarkusSimm]

Digging this game so far, love the soundtrack and how the combat just keeps opening up and getting better.

[@Jdawg8811]

Just picked my copy up and now off for a 3 day wkend! Let's go!!!

[@ActionJaxonH]

Always love hearing your thoughts!

[@b2fsa]

Definitely a great buy!! Love the game and all of the the things you mentioned about the music and art work. Can’t wait to see how the story evolves and finishes!

[@raypadilla254]

This game looks like a very good PS4 game! And this is being run on what is basically a super advanced next gen 3DS! This handheld impresses me more and more every month I have it!!! I was on the fence about buying this game but now after your review I'm definitely getting it! And one more thing I can't wait for their next game Bayonetta 3!! Great work PG!!!!!!!

[@kevinramirez3134]

Gameplay matters more than graphics! Always has always will.

[@theregalbeagle8855]

It's pretty cool how Platinum got its start essentially as a second party studio for Sega and now they're basically in the same type of partnership with Nintendo. Quality stuff.

[@JFlip27]

I'm just appreciating the fact that you are rocking the same hair style and color

[@adamanderson1729]

Yes!! I knew that this was going to be your reaction before I even hit play on the video. I finally got to put in my first play session after picking it up day one. I similarly realized within the first few minutes that it is something special. Anyway hours flew by and I enjoyed every second of my first session, it is sooooo damn fun and beautifully crafted. I cannot wait to jump back in and see what's in store tomorrow! Happy fall gaming season, so much goodness to come :)

[@ZeroGokuZ]

Hey. How are you? Hope all is well. I'm a huge fans of yours and love you're work. I've been a subscriber for a year but never did get to tell you I love you. I appreciate you inspire me and make me motivated to be great in life. Thank you and love you.

[@jumbleskull]

Your reviews make me smile

[@chocolocojames213]

I'm really looking forward to this and Daemon x machina 😁

[@derek-64]

makes two of us

[@Kingepticon]

And Link's Awakening, Dragon Quest XI S, Luigi's Mansion, Mario & Sonic at the Olympics. Might even get Greedfall (PS4). Soild Q3-Q4 this year.

[@Blackheartzero]

_The Protagonist and their twin don't speak in unison all the time like in the reveal trailer._ *8/10*

[@MediaFuzz]

Been waiting for this allllllll day, you rock Johnny!

[@jessejkulchacunningham5062]

Just completed it over the weekend had it since launch and I can say now for sure it is one of my favourite games OF ALL TIME. I cannot believe this game hasn’t had more sales at least let alone accolades. This game needs to be presented as one of the premium experiences on Nintendo switch it can go toe to toe with any exclusive anywhere lbs for lbs.

[@Lostboyash33]

I’m loving it so far! I started playing it when I got my switch lite but then the last of us 2 came out so I stopped, just restarted it and got upto file 4, it’s brilliant and the police HQ music is amazing haha

[@zevzero]

You really took the words out of my mouth. As soon as I started playing I was blown away. I thought the game would be good but wow. It reminds me of classic anime. Gameplay is so fun and cool.