Lair

Lair is a video game developed by Factor 5 and published by Sony Computer Entertainment America in which the player controls a knight named Rohn who rides a dragon.

Gameplay

The player assumes the role of a dragon-riding knight named Rohn. Rohn is given the tasks of defending a certain area, destroying certain objects, eliminating enemies or creatures, and other mission-based objectives. After each stage, the player can earn either gold, silver, or bronze medals, depending on performance during the level. A platinum medal is also available, though unlike the other three its requirements are hidden. Earning medals assists in unlocking combos and behind-the-scenes videos.

Most of the game's battles are air-based combat, with some fought on the ground by landing the dragon and fighting troops and other land-based creatures. In some locations, the game features a morale system tied to the enemy; the lower an enemy's morale, the less he will fight, and it is possible that he will retreat from combat.

The game relies heavily on the PlayStation 3's SIXAXIS motion controls. The player flies the dragon by tilting the controller, with additional moves also using motion sensing; one such example is fighting a dragon by tilting the controller to match the enemy dragon's flying height, and then slamming the controller left or right to knock the dragon sideways and out of the battle.

Story

Lair takes place in a world threatened by numerous emerging volcanoes, causing much of the land to be destroyed and the air to be polluted. As a result, people native to the world divided themselves into two kingdoms: the Mokai, whose lands are arid and depleted of resources, and the seemingly noble Asylians, who live in one of the last remaining bountiful, green areas. Desperate to gain the Asylians' land, the Mokai attack the Asylians.

Development

Lair was the first PlayStation 3 title to be fully playable via the Remote Play function, allowing it to be accessed through the internet on a PlayStation Portable. Initially the game was unplayable, as motion sensor controls are not available on PSP, it lacks L2 and R2 buttons and a right analog stick, which are necessary to pass certain levels. With recent firmware updates, the dragon may be controlled with the analog nub and buttons can be assigned on the PSP to act as L2 and R2, rendering Lair fully playable.

On April 15th, 2008 an update was released on the Playstation Network, adding analog stick support, extra playable dragons, and rumble support for the Dual Shock 3 controller. The game now uses the directional pad for actions such as the 180 degree turn and the "dash forward" ability.

An English-language demo for Lair was made available to Asian markets only, excluding Japan, in April, 2008. Even though the Lair Trial Version includes the gameplay patch it is not compatible with the Remote Play function.