I've been anticipating a new Transformers game since the last PS2 release a few years back.  Was it worth the wait?  Read on to find out.

Story: 9



Transformers: Decepticons follows an alternate version of the movie plot that skirts around the general path of the movie.  It allows for your character to fit into the Transformers universe.  There are times you play as the characters from the movie and those are just as fun as running your Transformer around.

Sound: 10



What really impressed me was the voice-over work.  I'm not used to voice acting for all the spoken dialogue throughout the game.  The music is good too, though it can get repetitive during free play mode.  The sound effects are also well done, but I was really hoping for the old school transformation sound.

Graphics: 9



The graphics are very nice, though there are occasions where they're just not that good.  I think that's because of all the attention given to the Transformers and not the background.  I'm glad they went that direction though.  Where they really shine are during transformation.

Controls: 9



The controls are great while running around, blowing stuff up, flying, or driving.  It's when the touch screen needs to be used to scan vehicles, transform, or use the map that it can be tricky if you're not used to the stylus or don't want to get thumbprints on your touch screen.

Game Play: 9



The game play itself is much better than I anticipated.  With so many styles of game play to choose from (by yourself - with missions, challenges, and free roam, over Wi-Fi, and Multi-Player), you'll never find yourself bored.  Whether you're in it for the fighting, driving, flying, of the RPG aspects, you will find yourself pleased.  I like how when you're Transformer levels up, you gain a new combat move or your stats increase (which is all they do after level 13 or so - so, more level-ups would be nice).

Overall: 9.2



Transformers: Decepticons is a great game with a lot to offer hard-core fans and those just getting to know those robots in disguise.  Go buy this game.  Now.