Review:
STACKED
Genre: Strategy / Puzzle
Publisher: Myelin Media
Players: 1-9 (AD Hoc)
Online play: Yes
Firmware: 2.81
Video:
Windows Media Player:
Stacked - Trailer
QuickTime Player:
Stacked - Trailer
Ah, poker. Glory one minute, misery the next…. though mainly just misery for those who aren’t good at odds and statistics. Stacked is a fun and long-lasting poker game with some originality from the other poker games currently available on the PSP. But I think I ought to mention the best bit about Stacked first. The AI (called Poki) in this game is amazing, and be aware that you are being watched and analysed with every move and game you win or lose, right from the start of your Career Mode. This does not only mean that your opposition in the Career Mode will get harder and harder as you progress through the game, but more importantly your opposition will begin to get a good feel for your game style, risk and stamina.
Bluffing can be very rewarding and successful during the game, and is very effective against the amateurs at your table. However, bluffing a Pro isn’t quite the same. Playing a bluff against a Pro should usually make you think twice about what’s going on. These guys often encourage you to play a bluff, by setting a trap you did not realise a moment before hand. This could be a smile, placing a bet, or perhaps calling your bet. But in other words, these guys want you to bluff, so that they can bluff you just a moment after.
When we move away from the poker side of things, the visual is pretty awful. Although each game is set in a number of real casinos across the world, the lighting is very dark and the graphics are far from smooth. You wouldn't think it's much to ask for from a poker game! You have very little input with your surroundings or camera angles, yet not even the main menu or the numbers shown on your cards are very clear.
There is a slight attempt of customising your own character when commencing a New Game, but the options available are either boring or absolutely ridiculous!
This game also has a very punctual and handy guide (called Stacked Poker School) to the Texas Hold’em Poker you play in Stacked, narrated by player of the year Daniel Negreanu with full motion video. This is a clear and useful reminder to the rules of poker, before jumping into the Career Mode. Tips are also available while practicing in the Quick Play Mode. However, these tips are entirely based upon your chances of winning the pot. Therefore the risk to call, raise or fold is always down to you.
Playing online is fun, especially in the Cash Games, Single Table Tournaments and MTV Stacked Masters. Here, not only do you play against real players, but also have the chance to see how you stack up against the global Hall of Fame. You cannot play as any of the players you unlocked during the game while online, such as Daniel Negreanu for example, because these characters are reserved to them. So if you see Daniel Negreanu online, that’s him!
Stacked can keep you playing poker for ages, and as I’ve found out it’s an enjoyable and calm game to play over a longer than usual time period. Stacked doesn’t get frustrating, but does keep challenging you to play with a varied use of game techniques. This all said, you’ll probably only buy this game if you like poker or strategy and puzzle games.
The Verdict:
Uppers:
- Extremely adaptive and challenging AI
- Online play
- The Stacked Poker School
Downers:
- Shameful graphics
- Lacking in imagination
- Laughable characters
Overall score: 60%
Henry,
27/01/2007
Linear Mode
