Transformers: Devastation - Boxed - PS3

Transformers: Devastation is an action game based on the Transformers franchise, in particular on the original 1980s cartoon series known today as Generation 1. It features the same bright visual style with cel-shaded graphics. The main story mode has five difficulty levels and tells how the Decepticons plan to cyberform planet Earth after Megatron finds a way to control plasma energy. He uses this technology to turn organic matter into metal. The Autobots must prevent this, and in the end five different characters are playable: Bumblebee, Grimlock, Optimus Prime, Sideswipe and Wheeljack. Alongside the main story mode there is also a challenge mode.

The gameplay resembles other titles from developer Platinum Games. The game is played mostly as a 3D action brawler, with missions divided into smaller areas and short cutscenes to move the story forward. The Autobots combine light and heavy attacks in various patterns to form combos. If a blue flash appears during a combo, it can be finished off with an attack in vehicle form. The robots can freely switch between robot and vehicle form. The latter is used to move around quickly, and there are also longer driving sequences, often during chases or while fleeing. While driving, ranged weapons can be fired, there is a boost attack and often obstacles to avoid, as well as booster portals to gain extra speed. Melee weapons include swords, gauntlets and hammers, while ranged weapons include blasters, grenade launchers and more.

During combat in robot form, each character has four weapon slots available. A large number of melee and ranged weapons can be collected during missions and swapped mid-combat. Ranged weapons have an energy gauge and, once empty, take some time to recharge. Another gauge is filled by attacks and, once full, allows a devastating attack unique to each Autobot to be unleashed. Levels often contain hidden items and collectibles. There are transporters that temporarily reveal a hidden container in another location. A ground pound from the air is sometimes used to uncover items hidden beneath the surface. The Autobots can also pick up and throw objects, a technique sometimes used to solve small environmental puzzles. With correct timing, incoming attacks can be dodged, slowing down time similarly to Witch Time in Bayonetta and offering the chance to counter. Later on, additional attacks can be acquired, such as a parry move that can instantly deflect an incoming attack. The game features many encounters with large robot bosses whose weak points must be exploited. After each battle, a ranking is shown based on performance.

During the game, green and blue energon cubes can be collected to restore health and weapon energy respectively. New missions are always launched from the Ark headquarters. The player selects the Autobot and can determine their loadout from a large weapon arsenal. Weapons have their own levels and can be made stronger through synthesis, by fusing weapons using a base weapon and secondary weapons used as parts. Credits earned during missions can be passed on to Wheeljack. He develops T.E.C.H., which grants improved abilities. Players must complete a quick timing mini-game to develop them, and once finished, they can be chosen from a large pool for two slots. The equipped T.E.C.H. can be different for each mission.