When it comes to next-generation hardware I’m more focused on finding fresh, new experiences that feel unique and different. This is, at least to some extent, exactly what Knack is.
Knack looks more like a highly detailed PlayStation 3 title than a PlayStation 4 launch game.
Most gamers, especially those who feel they’re in the hardcore crowd, will probably scoff at Knack’s cartoony graphics and simple visuals. This is a mistake; beneath its cartoony exterior is quite possibly one of the PS4′s best launch games.
Knack might seem like even less of a leap in graphics than Killzone: Shadow Fall is at first glance. Some critics have even said it looks more like a game that belongs on the PlayStation 3.
If you look closely though you’ll notice Knack’s character animation is some of the smoothest ever seen in a video game and that it contains a lot of small graphical touches, particularly Knack’s crazy particle effects, giving the game a very next-generation feel.
Most people will probably disagree with me but this is the second time I’ve gone hands-on with Knack and the game continues to impress me.
Knack’s cartoony art style is refreshing and after spending two hours in Shadow Fall’s gritty, realistic world, it was a nice change of pace. If you were a fan of old school platforming titles like Crash Bandicoot or Spyro, then you’ll find a lot to enjoy with Knack.
At first, Knack might seem a little too simple since its controls really only involve punching your enemies in the face, but as the game progresses a variety of elements come into play. Depending on Knack’s size, approaching fights differently is key. Also, isolating enemies, particularly those with range weapons, is important to not dying 10 times in a row like I often did.
Knack is also a very difficult game ...
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