These days, finding a good movie-based video game is more difficult than
locating a brand-new Wii for sale. One advantage of having low expectations
for a game means the average person won't be very disappointed if it is
subpar. I didn't expect much from "The Spiderwick Chronicles," and that
spared me a lot of frustration.
Players guide three youngsters who move into a new house and discover
"Arthur Spiderwick's Guide to the Fantastical World Around You." This manual
explains the supernatural possibilities that most people overlook, and
empowers the youths with the knowledge needed to catch mysterious sprites
and use their magic.
Players who undertake the perilous journey will find a large world filled
with dozens of items and sprites to find as well as interesting areas to
explore. I like the fact that there always seems to be something new to find
around the next bend. Budding wizards defend themselves in battle by using
basic weapons and magical abilities, such as super strength, which are
gained by capturing certain magical sprites.
This title doesn't utilize the Wii controller's unique capabilities much
beyond camera control (which is actually more frustrating than using an
analog stick) and performing basic attacks (pressing "A" performs the same
attack). As a result, the Wii version looks worse than its next-gen
brethren, yet still doesn't make up for it.
In the end, "The Spiderwick Chronicles" will entertain younger audiences for
hours on end, but older gamers will grow weary of the limited features.
Game: "Patapon"
Publisher: Sony
System: Sony PSP
Cost: $20
ESRB rating: E
Review rating: 31¼2 stars
Since nearly every video game genre has been combined over the last few
years, it was only a matter of time before a company merged a rhythm game
with an RTS (Real-Time Strategy). Yes, you read correctly. Sony's latest
niche title, "Patapon," lets participants control a small army using nothing
more than rhythmic button-tapping.
Players inflate their ego by becoming the exalted potentate of a mythical
tribe of creatures called the Patapons. These one-eyed warriors may look
adorable, but just like an army of ants, they can easily defeat enemies 10
times their size if they work together. Only skilled leadership,
exploration, and advanced customization can help the pint-sized pugilists
regain their former glory. Are you up to the challenge?
During game play, pressing on the PSP face buttons triggers a drumbeat, and
the player must press a certain sequence in rhythm to advance their Patapon
army. When enemies are encountered, different drumbeats incite the Patapons
to attack, defend or retreat. It is even possible to use magic, but the
Patapons must be in 'Fever' mode, which is initiated by beating out several
commands in perfect rhythm.
Fever mode also makes the Patapons faster and stronger, so players should
always strive for perfect rhythm in every skirmish. However, it does become
tricky in later levels to keep a smooth beat during the heat of battle, and
therein lies the game's challenge.
In between sorties, players will want to explore Patapon village. This
charming locale is where promising leaders find new items, resurrect fallen
soldiers, create new types of Patapons and customize their squads.
While the combination of genres found in "Patapon" may be unusual, Sony has
somehow managed to make it as fun as it is adorable.
RATING KEY
4 stars - Must have
3 stars - Pretty good
2 stars - So-so
1 star - Don't waste your time
- - -
Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB)
E: Everyone
T: Teen (13 and older)
E10-plus: (Everyone 10 and older)
M: Mature (17 and older)
