Customer Reviews

Virtual On: Oratorio Tangram

5 star:		(21)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(4)
2 star:		(2)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

I bought the import version of this game, and considering the game is almost a year old in Japan, its amazing how fun this game is. If you like 3D fighting games, and you're a Japanese anime maniac, you're gonna really dig this game. You basically pick a virtuaroid(virtual robot), and lock horns with another opponent. One player mode will take you through 10 battles, with a boss at the end of the ground and space battles. Fire missles, beam weapons, super shots, fists, whatever it takes from long range. If your opponent is too crafty, rocket in close and engage in metal hand-to-metal hand combat. The action is extremely hyper paced as you use booster rockets to maneuver and evade salvo after salvo of enemy fire. There are boxes about the arena so you can take a quick breather, while you check all your nuts and bolts. You'll have to think about your attacks as all weapons must recharge at different speeds, forcing you to use better strategy and aim. There are some incredible special attacks. My favorite is Angelan's energy dragon--a huge dragon is summoned and soars toward your opponent showering virtual destruction upon them. The characters are mostly all unique with the exception of 2 identical 'bots that carry different weapons. The polygons in the characters are Virtua Fighter level, a little boxy which is okay since they are robots. Some of the designs are more slick than others. All are created by the designer for the Gundam cartoon series. Gameplay infinitely surpasses the intensity of a mecha duel from say...Macross, Gundam, etc... The arenas are graphically a little behind current dreamcast games, although they make up for it in the richness of colors, and diversity of locations. Perhaps the American version will spice up the scenery a little. There is a versus mode, internet play, and a customizable mode. The customizable mode allows you to choose your colors, and your logo. There are about 50 preset logos and you can use a painting feature to alter or create your own, which can be saved via VMU. Look for acclaim to possibly alter the controls some. Its a bit hard to do a stationary turn around sometimes with the standard controller. Since most Americans probably won't be into buying a $70 arcade twin stick control, its safe to assume this issue will be addressed. If not you'll make the turn with some practice and clever use of your booster rocket combined with the analog stick. Also the difficulty could be tweaked down just a little. I had it on the easiest setting (1-out-of-10) and have yet to beat the final boss "Tangram." What's a Tangram?(think of Unicron the planet killer from the Transformers animated movie back in the '80s). All in all this game should be a huge hit with American gamers who might not be familiar with mech fighters, and should spark up some feirce online gaming should it be available on the American version. Its already a classic in Japan.

If you're a fan of big robot anime and fighting games, don't even bother reading the rest of the review - just go buy the game.

Still here? Okay, let me get my main complaint about the game out of the way first. The game was designed to be played in the arcade with a pair of joysticks referred to as twinsticks. The twinsticks are somewhat like dual sticks used to control a tank and without them, the game suffers. Supposedly some third party companies are looking into making them, but until they do, the control in Virtual On can be a little unwieldly.

On the plus side, however, it is a flashy and impressively deep robot combat game with bright graphics and a constant barrage of action in one-on-one duels. Fans of Gundam Wing and Robotech will certainly get their kicks here.

That's really what it boils down to. Fans of big robot anime will love this game unequivocably; fans of action games will love it and overlook its faults; easily frustrated gamers should rent first.

This is an awesome game and it probably will not disappoint the majority of you. I hear people complaining about not being playable without the twin sticks. I don't think that is true. Yeah, it doesn't beat the experience of the game with the twin sticks but the game is still very playable. You don't need to use analog stick to rotate because the game allows you to turbo and as soon as you shoot, it automatically turns you torwards the opponent. Same with jumping. This method is actually faster because if you just stand there and rotate, it's slower than dashing and shooting. Only problem is with moves that need you to rotate (temjins circular swing) are impossible to do at the right time since having to stand still will cause you to be a sitting duck. Other than those problems, the game is a blast. You might need to give the controls some time before you are used to them. Overall this is a great game (gameplay, graphics, sound all of it is awesome), 5 stars if they had the twinsticks but still enjoyable nonetheless.

Let's get a couple details out of the way -- I've never played VOOT in the arcade, and have never played it with Twin Sticks. Yes, the Dreamcast controller takes some getting used to, and I bet it IS easier with the Sticks -- but I don't have 'em. Result: still one of the best DC games there is (and there are quite a few). I understand now why this thing is such a hit in Japan. Not a flicker of slowdown, even with multiplayer splitscreen. There is amazing depth and strategy here, in addition to unbelievable speed and action. You can't just zoom around, firing blindly -- the CPU'll roast you in a second. You've gotta think and have a plan, moreso than Dead or Alive 2 or Soul Calibur. VOOT is different in every sense of the word. We're lucky to have this game in the States, people. Very lucky, and THANKS to Activision for bringing it here. Yes, it is missing online capability as well as the design-your-own-mech mode, but the gameplay itself is the same. Think of it as a genius cross between a fighting game and a shooter, and you get the idea. Incredible mech designs, weapons, and animation -- and it's difficult enough to keep the single-player mode interesting. Granted, it's not for everyone, but give this thing a try and marvel at the atmosphere it creates through graphics and sound. Yet another Work of Art for the Dreamcast. Give it a shot.

This game, I must admit, has beautiful graphics and awesome gameplay. The problem is the controls are designed around a peripheral, which most of you know, called Twin Sticks. Playing the game with a standard controller IS possible and ALMOST fun, but it's like playing Quake without a keyboard, possible but not tolerable. I purchased the game and decided the Twin Sticks were a must, so I attempted to acquire a set. I found that the controllers go for around $75 each AND even if I felt like sinking $150 into one game I didn't have the option because the controllers are not sold in the US (as of June 2000) and all mail-order shops I found were sold out. So unless you already have Twin Sticks (actually Sega Saturn Twin Sticks work with an adapter) I wouldn't purchase this game. Don't get me wrong, this game is awesome, but true gamers won't be able to put up with the lack of control. ---2 stars, for now

Firstly, I have to admit that what got my attention about this game was the rather weird title. That caused me to do quite a bit of research, and I finally bought the game after seeing the many mixed reviews.

There is a nearly cult-like following surrounding Virtual On: Oratorio Tangram, also known by it's initials, VOOT. It started with the Sega arcade release in Japan in the Spring of 1998, followed by other versions (including English) in Australia and elsewhere in the world. The only arcade version I've heard of in the United States was in a Sega arcade in Seattle, Washington. And there are now a couple of dozen websites and even several user groups devoted to this game.

The game is built around a science fiction plot that is, to be truthful, too insane to worry about, especially since it has nothing to do with the game play. Essentially, you are the pilot of one of twelve giant VirtuaRoids, or VRs, which are Robocop-like robotic warriors. You can play the CPU, or you can play head to head with a friend via a user definable split screen. There are handicap options for when the disparity between two player's abilities is too great.

The negative reviews of the Dreamcast version of VOOT almost always center around the difficulty in controlling the game with the Dreamcast controller. There is some truth to this. In fact, I would have to say that if you are looking for a fast paced arcade port that is easy to get the hang of right out of the box, then this game is not for you. But then, the arcade version itself has a steep learning curve as well.

My own view is that the good things in life often do not come easy. And with VOOT, it is not only worth the time necessary to learn the control system, but it is necessary to spend the time to get any real enjoyment from the game. This means you will have to read the little manual that comes with the game. The basics for movement are easy to pick up on, the combat controls are more difficult. But once you've gotten over the initial learning hump, this game is nothing but sugar sweet from that time onward. And you will find that the Dreamcast controller works wonderfully. Also, be sure to check out the numerous VOOT websites for the many techniques that will help your gameplay progress.

Fortunately, there is an extensive training mode that allows you to learn the control system at your own pace, and makes it lots of fun to do so. This is a good thing, because there is a lot to learn. The twelve VRs vary greatly in their weaponry and their design. Some are built for close-in combat, some for nearly complete aerial fighting, and some move very quickly over the ground. All differ in their response to the control system. And after you become familiar with the control system for each VR beyond the initial learning stage, you will come to realize that this game is much deeper than you thought. Each VR has, in fact, it's own personality that manifests itself through it's particular handling and fighting capabilities.

In Training mode, you can define which VR both you and the CPU control, and you can slow things down and disable enough options to really get a feel for the incredible capability you have in controlling them when you are just starting to get the hang of the control scheme. After a while, it begins to occur to you that you have developed an amazing feel for how your VR operates. Also, there are a dozen or more different areas to fight on that can be either user or CPU defined, from hard tarmac with no place to hide to rough ground with lots of obstacles to duck behind when the incoming fire gets too heavy. Obviously, these numerous layouts affect game play, and some come with various hazards that affect some VRs more than others.

This is a 3D game, and you have complete control of your VR in all three dimensions. And it is the finesse, this incredible sensitivity, and the very tight response you get from your VRs that make this game so addicting. You can duck to avoid an incoming shot, slide to the side, jump up in the air, do a rocket boost while up to extend your aerial movement while changing direction, and fire your weapon while airborne, all in a very smooth, coordinated and completely controlled manner.

The gameplay is combined with graphics so intense they are mind blowing. The animation is a silky smooth sixty frames per second, and it never slows down, no matter how hard you push things. The graphics are tack sharp and are absolutely brilliant. In fact, the game looks more like a 3D rendered finished production than real-time generated polygons.

The soundtrack is strange, but does indeed grow on you. This game is a Japanese port, and the music and English translations show it. The overall effect is an enhancement of playability with an overlay of otherworldliness.

A supported accessory is a jump or vibration pack, and I recommend using one if you have it. Another supported accessory is a VMU. At first, you would think that a VMU is almost useless in an arcade style game. But, the designers of the Dreamcast version wisely included a little-known capability in VOOT, which is the ability for game replay. Not replay as in being able to play your opponent in the same sequence again, but replay as in a football game replay. In other words, you can play back a saved game replay, and while the fighting sequence is running, you can move your virtual camera around to nearly any angle imaginable. So, you can see what your enemy saw, or choose an overhead view, or a side view with both combatants visible. Plus, you can zoom in and out freely, and pan around however you like. And you can do all of this in realtime while the replay is occuring. This is an incredible learning aid and will increase your skill level greatly, and is indicative of the great depth of play there is in VOOT. You can also use this capability to make video tapes that will look every bit as good as anything pre-recorded on the Cartoon Channel.

If you have a Dreamcast and want to experience a mindbending gameplaying experience, then Virtual On: Oratorio Tangram is a must-have title for your collection. Who knows, you may even publish your own VOOT website, with stills and video sequences from your greatest battles.

This is one great game! Virtual on is by far my favorite game ever! It has excellent graphics, sound, and most of all controls.

Most people think that VO:OT can't be played without twin sticks. This is simply not true. The DC controller is a great way to start out with virtual on. Most attacks and combinations can be learned on the controller. However, without twinsticks it is IMPOSSIBLE to play this game at high levels. Being a member of AVC (Auburn Virtual On crew) I am fortunate enough to play with some of the best Virtual On players in the US and believe me, twinsticks ARE necessary at tournament level. Some moves and combos are completely impossible without them and will never be seen unless you have them.

Please don't let this discourage you from buying this game! It takes alot of time, months or even years to move up to the highest levels of playing. I've been playing for well over a year and I'm just now getting good!

And besides, it's a beautiful game! The graphics aren't quite as nice looking as the arcade version, but it's as close as you can get on a home system. It's especially nice with the VGA box, which I'm sure Amazon sells:) It never slows down, and the control set and timing is exactly like the arcade. You can't ask for a better translation. It's a shame that activision removed network versus and customize modes. And cable versus is only accesible through a code. But the game makes up for it with a great training mode and plenty of options.

I hope this review has helped in the decision to buy this game. This is a game that no Dreamcast owner or giant robot fanatic should be without!!!

I really don't want to type what everyone else is saying(the game is awesome, great graphics, sound, ya-da, ya-da, ya-da), but I want to show people how to get some "twin sticks" for VO:OT. Just buy the Saturn arcade sticks, get a Saturn/Dreamcast controller converter, and Voila! Twin Sticks!! They may not be as perfect as its heavier counterpart, but it sure beats nothin' at all.

I want to start off by saying I've been playing Virtual On for about 3 1/2 years and VO:OT for about 7 months. I wanted to address a few issues to clear up any doubts people have about the controls on the home version. I play VO:OT in the arcade on an almost daily basis here in Seattle(its across the street from my house)and I also have the Dreamcast version. I've heard people say that playing on the DC pad is very hard to get used to and It's very unintuitive. Try getting used to the sticks! It takes months of playing to really learn any of the mechs in fine detail no matter which control setup you use. If you keep at it the games ingenious fighting system becomes very apparent and you eventually achieve a state where you feel as if you ARE in the mech. You won't even notice the controller anymore. And while I learned in the arcade, there are several manuevers that are actually easier on the DC pad. Moves like jump cancelling(the best, fastest way to keep them in your sight),crouch moves (ie:Apharmd B crouching knockdown bomb), or Temjin's aerial super(that cool surfboard thingy)are way faster and easier to time with the control pad. There is no need to ever touch the analog pad. (Note to all reviewers: turning to face your opponent is suicide, watch any good player, they never EVER turn!) Perhaps the reason people think the controls are difficult on the home version is because the game is inherently hard to control. Regardless of the interface! To my knowledge, there are only two moves that are difficult, if not impossible on the home version. Those two being Temjin's beam sword spin(left+up/right+dwn+ all)its really hard to steer Cypher's aerial super too but other than that you can do everything the same as the arcade. the only change to the actual setup is the timing on sidestep moves but the change in timing is pretty easy to adjust to. Now with that cleared up. Lets move on to the graphics. they are for the most part, arcade perfect. the only differences I've noticed are as follows: apharmd B/S tornado no longer uses motion blur effect, there is no longer that ugly white outline when a robot is surrounded by energy at a far distance, and some projectiles have changed color(eg: pink went to blue). On a positive note, the lighting is a little better as far as theres a sort of *shine* going on with the mechs. The replay options are really cool. and even though there is no Net play, It's still the best console mech fighting game EVER! If you want fast paced fighting with Really Deep Gameplay VO:OT is a MUST BUY!

Virtual On, one of the best mech games ever created, only second or third to games like ZOE2. Prior to its reputation being humiliated, degraded, and shat on, with the release of "Virtual On: MARZ", Virtual On Oratorio Tangram was one of the best mech fightings games available on the market (and with its release on the Xbox market place it is yet again). This version in particular lacks the spice which the Japanese version packed but its still a very good game in itself. Also one thing I'd like to point out is the controls, many people like to say its twinsticks or no go, but really thats just being absolutely anal! The only things that are impossible would be moves that require rotation+ button to be performed and the use of basic rotation itself. If facing the enemy is an issue you can just use an extremely (and I mean EXTREMELY) quick jump cancel to reset your view onto the opponent, or you can just attack while performing a turbo boost. As for rotation attacks you're probably only missing out on 1 or 2+ moves depending on the mech, and this may or may not be a loss depending on whether or not the move(s) is useful.

Outside of the controls, the game itself is still fast paced fun, with a few mechs to choose from, if there are unlockables, I haven't gotten them yet. While the game features an arcade mode where the ultimate boss is a giant eye, it really shines in multiplayer. So if you have friends force them to play with you NOW! Oh, and also in terms of the arcade, some people seem to think that the AI opponents are difficult, this is really only the case if you don't know how to manuever, however, the AI can still pose a good challenge, I just wish most of them weren't such panzies when it came to melee. Speaking of melee, depending on the range the game changes. At mid to long range its a fast-paced competitive shooting game with several weapons and moves at your disposal, however at close combat, it suddenly becomes like a fighter game with a quick-step function combos and sequences for attacks and a blocking mechanism. It really is quite impressive. All in all I really enjoy this game and reccomend it.