Resistance: Retribution (PSP)

Sony's big first-person shooter has gone portable. RESISTANCE: RETRIBUTION changes perspectives and tweaks controls, but maintains the solid action of the previous two games in the franchise. Players assume the role of former British Marine James Grayson. After his brother is infected in a conversion center run by aliens known as Chimera, Grayson unites with a European group called The Maquis to seek revenge.

The major difference between Retribution and the first two games is the switch from a first-person perspective to third-person. The four face buttons on the front of the PlayStation Portable control the camera, while the left thumbstick moves the character. When enemies near, James' weapon automatically locks on to a target, and flips to the next once an opponent is killed. The directional pad allows players to sort through their large arsenal, ranging from assault rifles and shotguns to rocket launchers. The shoulder buttons execute your primary and secondary attacks. If you own Resistance 2, players can connect their PSP to a PS3 and play the game with the PS3 controller and open an Infected Mode that gives them special abilities.

Retribution feels like a much easier game compared to the first two in the series. The aim assist feature allows for easy targeting of enemies, while the introduction of a cover system keeps players better guarded. The aim assist can be inconsistent at times. When too many enemies cluster together in one spot, the reticle flies all over the place, moving quickly from target to target. One specific enemy requires players to shoot them in the head, forcing use of manual aim. The feature works well unless you have varying enemies on the screen and you have to toggle between manual and auto aim.

The campaign itself is a satisfying experience. Enemies make smart use of cover and flanking strategies. Surprise attacks by opponents should keep players on their toes. The PS3 connectivity is clever, but requires more effort than its worth. Retribution also includes a multiplayer mode with an array of solo and team-based competitions. The Wi-Fi connections seem reliable and the matches experienced only small amounts of lag. Resistance fans should thoroughly enjoy the experience this portable follow-up delivers.