A great game for all gamers (revised)

"Don't judge a book by it's cover". Well, that can also be said for video games, especially Playstation's Spyro the Dragon from a company called Insomniac. From looking at the cover of this game, you'd think that it is just for kids. Well, let me tell you, it is one of the best game's on the Playstation system and one of the most fun and challenging platformers out there. Plus, Spyro the Dragon is one of the games in Sony's Greatest Hits collection and retails for $19.99 or less, so it's a great gaming bargain.

Gameplay - The basic premise of Spyro the Dragon is for Spyro to free his fellow dragons who have been locked in crystal by the villain of the game, Gnasty Gnorc. The great thing about this game is that it is played in a fluid, 3-D world which allows for different camera angles. Once freed, each dragon give Spyro hints and information that he needs to know later in the game. Throughout the game, Spyro finds gems and the goal of the game is to free all the dragons and obtain all the gems. There are a number of worlds and levels that Spyro must visit to do save the dragons and Spyro travels from world to world in a hot air balloon.

Control - One of the best features of Spyro the Dragon is the ability to control our hero. Spyro can trot, run, charge, jump, glide, blow flames, glide-charge, and roll left and right. The one thing that our hero can't do is swim, so should he land in a tar pit or water, he dies. Controlling Spryo is easy to do and can be done with the analog stick or the control pad. The overall control of the game is excellent.

Graphics - One word: unbelievable. The graphics in this game are some of the best that Playstation has came up with. Though each world is different, and they all have a theme, they still tie together well. The graphics on this game are very colorful and lush, but not blinding. They are best described as green and organic.

Sound - The soundtrack of the game was created by ex-Police drummer Stewart Copeland and features rhythmic, synthesized music. Upbeat and interesting, the compositions that Copeland created for Spyro the Dragon really set a great mode and do a lot to enhance the gameplay. As for voice of Spyro, it is a bit irritating and whiny, but not enough to take away from the game.

Replay Value - Another great thing about Spyro the Dragon is that it is a long and challenging game that you can save and continue at any point in. Granted, the first few worlds are simple, but as you progress, the game does get more challenging as the dragons and gems are tougher to find and are hidden in very obscure spots. Once you finally finish the game, chances are because of its addictive gameplay, you will be playing it again and again, just for the fun and challenge.

If you are looking for a great platformer with great graphics, gameplay and sound, Spyro the Dragon is one that you should not miss. Sure, the character is a bit on the "cute" side and this may look like a game that only kids would like, but older and more experienced gamers shouldn't let that prevent them from checking out this great game.