Mirror's Edge for PlayStation 3 Reviews by Gamers

Mirror's Edge is a compelling (at least initially) game that showcases some innovative gameplay. Unfortunately, the story & writing are generic at best (some of the cutscene dialogue is jaw-droppingly silly without even the benefit of being tongue in cheek) and the gameplay is badly (and I repeat badly) marred by irritatingly precise platforming and poor combat.

What makes Mirror's Edge even potentially fun is the thrill of free-running, facilitated by some slick conceits (like the so-called "runner's vision" wherein objects that can be used in running appear red) and stylized graphics choices (as you build speed & momentum, the edges of the screen blur). The fun grinds to a complete halt the first time you get stuck in a repetitive replay of 15 seconds of rooftop because the timing of your button-pushes is off by a split-second. This problem crops up early on and was frequent enough to leave me feeling more frustrated than challenged throughout the game.

But nothing can prepare you for the frustrating combat mechanic. As the game's load screens often warn you, taking on "blues" (the game's nickname for police and security forces) en masse or even in small groups is ill-advised. More truthful would have been to say that it was nearly impossible. This wouldn't matter if the game didn't force you into positions of having to fight your way out (something that the game does more and more frequently in later chapters). Playing the same 2 minute sequence over and over (and over and over) trying to figure out the best way to get through a phalanx of security forces had me ready to throw my controller through the TV.

Thankfully, the game is short (REALLY short), so it can be completed fairly quickly. However, too much of that time is spent in frustratingly precise platforming or downright broken combat / level design. I like the concept and the basic gameplay, but can't recommend the game because of the high frustration level.

I thought this game was pretty cool. It has been a while since an entire game was kind of different. This game combines street running with guns all in a very incredible first person view which I have never seen before. This game was very intense when playing I always felt like I had to keep moving to stay away from the guards and other bad guys. Some down sides for me were the cut scenes, they were this anime style which was ok but the PS3 has amazing graphic capabilities and I felt that EA should have taken advantage with that when showing movies. Others complained that the game play was to short and had I paid $60 for this game I would agree but I am trying to play as many games as possible over winter break so I found the length to be enjoyable. I hope that they come out with another because I would defiantly rent it again.