Marina Del Rey, Calif. – August 16, 2011 – UTV Ignition Games proudly announced today that El Shaddai: Ascension of the Metatron is now available at retail stores across North America for the PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system and the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft.
“We are absolutely thrilled to finally bring El Shaddai: Ascension of the Metatron to gamers across North America,” said Shane Bettenhausen, Director of PR and New Business Development UTV Ignition Games. “The development team in Japan poured several years of passion and creativity into this project, and we are extremely proud that their uncompromising, unique vision carries through into the final user experience.”
Developed by a hugely-talented, Tokyo-based team headed by the legendary Sawaki Takeyasu (Devil May Cry) El Shaddai: Ascension of the Metatron, draws players into a rich storyline inspired by events in the Old Testament’s apocryphal ‘Book of Enoch.’ In the game, players take on the role of Enoch and must harness his natural combat skills to master a range of powerful and Heavenly weapons under the guidance of the watchful Archangels. Through a mesmerizing combination of combat, 2D and 3D platforming, Enoch must deliver the souls of the Fallen Angels and spare the world from a great flood ordered by Heaven.
Critical reviews for El Shaddai: Ascension of the Metatron have been stellar thus far. Some of the title’s initial accolades include:
“This is easily the most beautiful game I’ve played this generation. El Shaddai is a rare treat of a game and a celebration of video games as an art form. 9/10” Game Informer
“El Shaddai is an absolute masterwork; the perfect combination of gameplay and a Zen-like state of virtual oneness. 9.5/10” GameFan
“If ever there were a game that embodied ‘visually stunning,’ El Shaddai is it. Its consistently fascinating story and ever-evolving world-along with its minimalist and elegant gameplay-make saving the world a magnificent endeavor. 9/10” PlayStation: the Official Magazine
“Japanese style and substance are what make El Shaddai stand out among all action games. A+.” Sci Fi Magazine
“Stunning, gorgeous El Shaddai is action-gamer bliss.” Wired.com
“We always appreciate innovation in a game and El Shaddai’s story is unlike anything we’ve ever played before.” Maxim
El Shaddai: Ascension of the Metatron for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 is rated T for Teen by the ESRB, and is currently available in North America for the suggested retail price of $59.99. El Shaddai will release in Europe on September 8, 2011.