Ghostbusters: The Video Game - PS3 Review

“Ghostbusters” has always been able to affect the zeitgeist within its impression of new generations. The new video game is no exception. The first iteration in this kind of medium of the Atari 2600 was bubble gum in its necessity because of the technological hold back of 8 bit. Progressing from this into the PC game a few years later offered a little more stylized darkness. In the past couple years, the technology of next generation consoles has shown the ability to push the envelope farther. A couple years back, Dan Aykroyd, who envisioned the original concept of "Ghostbusters", approached Sony about creating a CG Animated “Ghostbusters” movie as he felt the possibility of capturing the essence of new worlds on screen with this franchise was finally here. More than likely a young exec saw the inevitability of cross marketing. Creating the CG models for a video game was just as prophetic as creating an actual movie.When Atari, newly reinvigorated, was brought in to create a new vision, they took an approach radically different than others in recent years. In creating a new take on seeing these characters, you truly needed to have the original people back in place. Being big fans, they got Dan Aykroyd and Harold Ramis to pen the script and especially the dialogue. It tends to make a big difference. The big problem with doing live action is that you want to see these guys as they were. And while technology can work in that way (look at Patrick Stewart in X3), seeing the structure work in the video game shows the possibility. The key to the original movie is that it was both funny and scary which is a hard line to walk. The storyline the principals always thought was the next step was to have the next batch of rookies come in to help run the store which is the angle here but done from a first person perspective. The game structure is made to seem more organic in terms of a three act structure unlike most high concept games which are created primarily in level form. The aspect of learning how to trap a ghost takes on a truly precise physics perspective which makes it that much more fun and intrinsic if Dr. Ray Stanz is walking you through it.The game, unlike the Blu Ray, seems like it had adequate time to develop. All the graphics are stellar and the structure of the game itself indicates a new game engine which truly puts you in the middle of the action. The positron collider beams look magnificent with the level of animation now inherent in what can be seen. The shadows and lights of the hotels, basements and all other locations have an inference of a haunted house which very much makes it work. Add to the fact that you have the original voice talent including Bill Murray, Annie Potts, William Atherton and, of course, Akyroyd and Ramis, and it feels like there was commitment which is also reflected in the programmers and artists who are obviously big fans. Like when Vin Diesel is really involved in his games, you can see the enthusiasm. But with a franchise like this, it is a whole different level. This game raises the bar because it feels correct from story and character though ambiance, relative gameplay and graphics. Out of 5, I give “Ghostbusters” on PS3 a 4.