Afrika Review for PS3 - Part 1

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Have you ever fantasized about working as photographer, taking a camera out into the big wide world and making living capturing the things that you see? Have you ever dreamed of going on safari in Africa and seeing the amazing wildlife that roams the plains? Have you ever enjoyed watching a nature show such as Wild Kingdom or Animal Planet? Do you own a PS3 and enjoy playing video games at all, or do you think you MIGHT enjoy playing a video game IF it was the right one? If you answered yes to ANY of these questions, you really need to take a good look at Afrika for the Playstation 3.

Afrika, also known as Hakuna Matata, is a photography simulation game where you are sent to survey a scarcely documented area in Africa. You set up a base camp in the Duma Stepp area and take photographs of the local fauna which you send back to your sponsor via email. In addition to mailing images you can also accept freelance work from your laptop computer. Your computer allows you to store photos, send and receive emails, view your photos, check the field guide, and save your game. You can also shop online for accessories such as additional camera bodies, lenses, and photo storage.

The immersion of the "online store" element falls a little flat when you are basically offered items one at a time. However, this keeps the money aspect of the game from becoming a motivation in conflict with the photography. The focus is squarely on getting the best photos. You can only take so many photos so you need to be selective about what photos you take and keep. Afrika encourages you to consider what makes a good photo. A tent allows you to remain in a remote area overnight if you are having trouble getting that good shot and once you get it, a picture frame allows you to decorate your base camp with your favorite photo. A book shelf shows the publications your photos have been published in as well as a survey log and photography manual. There is also a case with additional equipment that's been sent to your or that you've purchased. The camera cases allow you to switch the camera body or lens that you are using. You can also view a map of the area that expands as you unlock new areas.

I've owned a decent camera for all of my adult life, but like most people, I've only found reason to use it now and then. However, one of the most exciting things I can think of to do with a camera is to take wildlife photography. I have even taken some myself around my rural home in Vermont. Afrika simulates this experience of taking photographs of animals in the wild in a truly exciting way. Utilizing the power of the PS3, Afrika let's you take high definition photos of wildlife behaving realistically in photo realistic settings.

Continue to,
Afrika Review for PS3 - Part 2
Afrika Review for PS3 - Part 3
Afrika Review for PS3 - Part 4
Afrika Review for PS3 - Part 5