Developer: Toys for Bob

Star Control II (1992)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Star Control II: A Space Adventure Classic

Released in 1992, Star Control II is a space adventure game that features role-playing elements alongside a 2D space ship melee combat system. The player assumes the role of The Captain of a single starship wandering a detailed environment of solar systems, gradually gathering information and resources in order to defeat a mysterious and implacable enemy.

Star Control II was developed by Toys for Bob and published by Accolade. It is the sequel to the original Star Control, which was released in 1990. Star Control II was a critical and commercial success, and it is considered to be one of the greatest video games of all time.

Gameplay

Star Control II is a non-linear game, meaning that the player is free to explore the game world and complete quests in any order they choose. The game world is vast and detailed, and it is filled with a variety of planets, moons, and space stations to explore.

The player’s ship is equipped with a variety of weapons and systems, which can be upgraded as the player progresses through the game. The player can also recruit new crew members, who can provide additional abilities and bonuses.

Combat

Combat in Star Control II is turn-based and takes place on a 2D plane. The player can control their ship directly or issue commands to their crew members. The player’s ship can be equipped with a variety of weapons, including lasers, missiles, and torpedoes.

Role-Playing Elements

In addition to combat, Star Control II also features a number of role-playing elements. The player can choose from a variety of races and professions for their captain, and each race and profession has its own unique abilities and bonuses.

The player can also upgrade their ship and crew members, and they can learn new skills and abilities. The player’s choices will have a significant impact on the game’s story and ending.

Story

The story of Star Control II is complex and engaging. The player takes on the role of The Captain, who is tasked with defeating a mysterious and implacable enemy known as the Ur-Quan Kohr.

The Ur-Quan Kohr are a race of technologically advanced aliens who are bent on conquering the galaxy. The player must travel across the galaxy, gathering information and resources, and building alliances with other races in order to defeat the Ur-Quan Kohr.

Legacy

Star Control II is considered to be one of the greatest video games of all time. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, its complex and engaging story, and its beautiful graphics and sound.

Star Control II has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years, and it is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game has also been the inspiration for a number of other games, including the Star Control series and the Sins of a Solar Empire series.

Conclusion

Star Control II is a classic space adventure game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s innovative gameplay, complex and engaging story, and beautiful graphics and sound make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Review Score

9.5/10

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Disney’s 102 Dalmatians: Puppies to the Rescue (2000)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Disney’s 102 Dalmatians: Puppies to the Rescue (2000)

Introduction

Disney’s 102 Dalmatians: Puppies to the Rescue is a platform game loosely based on the live-action Disney movie 102 Dalmatians. The game was developed by Crystal Dynamics and published by Eidos Interactive. It was released for the PlayStation, Windows, and Game Boy Color in 2000.

Gameplay

In Puppies to the Rescue, players take control of one of three Dalmatian puppies: Patch, Rolly, or Lucky. The puppies must work their way through a variety of levels, each with its own unique obstacles and challenges. The puppies can jump, climb, and use their special abilities to overcome obstacles and defeat enemies.

Each puppy has their own unique abilities. Patch can use his ears to glide through the air, Rolly can use his belly to roll through tight spaces, and Lucky can use his nose to sniff out hidden objects. The puppies can also team up to perform special moves, such as the “Dalmatian Dash” and the “Puppy Pile”.

The game features a variety of different levels, including forests, caves, and even a junkyard. Each level is filled with obstacles and enemies, such as bats, spiders, and Cruella’s henchmen. The puppies must use their skills and abilities to overcome these obstacles and reach the end of each level.

In addition to the main story mode, Puppies to the Rescue also features a variety of bonus levels and minigames. These bonus levels and minigames can be unlocked by collecting hidden paw prints throughout the game.

Story

The story of Puppies to the Rescue follows the events of the live-action movie 102 Dalmatians. After Cruella De Vil kidnaps 101 Dalmatian puppies, their parents, Pongo and Perdita, set out to rescue them. Patch, Rolly, and Lucky decide to help their parents by going after Cruella themselves.

The puppies track Cruella to her mansion, where they must sneak past her guards and rescue the other puppies. The puppies eventually succeed in rescuing the other puppies, and they all return home safely.

Reception

Puppies to the Rescue received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the game’s charming graphics and fun gameplay, while others criticized its repetitive levels and lack of challenge. However, the game was a commercial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide.

Legacy

Puppies to the Rescue is one of the most popular Disney video games of all time. It has been praised for its charming graphics, fun gameplay, and memorable characters. The game has also been credited with helping to popularize the platformer genre.

Conclusion

Disney’s 102 Dalmatians: Puppies to the Rescue is a fun and challenging platformer that is sure to appeal to fans of the Disney movie and platformer games in general. The game’s charming graphics, fun gameplay, and memorable characters make it a must-play for any fan of Disney or platformer games.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Tony Hawk’s Downhill Jam (2006)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Tony Hawk’s Downhill Jam: A High-Speed Downhill Racing Adventure

Tony Hawk’s Downhill Jam is a 2006 extreme downhill racing game developed by Neversoft and published by Activision for the Wii. It is the first game in the Tony Hawk’s series to focus on downhill racing, and it features a variety of new gameplay mechanics and features.

Gameplay

Tony Hawk’s Downhill Jam is a downhill racing game in which players control one of several Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater characters as they race down a variety of courses. The game features seven different courses, each of which is based on a real-world location, such as Machu Picchu, San Francisco, and Rio de Janeiro.

The goal of the game is to be the first to reach the bottom of the course. Players can use a variety of tricks and maneuvers to gain speed and advantage over their opponents. Tricks are performed by pressing the A button in combination with the directional pad or analog stick. Players can also use the Wii Remote’s motion controls to perform aerial maneuvers.

Wii Remote Controls

The Wii Remote’s motion controls are used to perform a variety of tricks and maneuvers in Tony Hawk’s Downhill Jam. By holding the Wii Remote sideways and tilting it side to side, players can turn their character. By flicking the Wii Remote forward or backward, players can perform aerial flips and spins.

The Wii Remote’s motion controls add a new level of depth and challenge to the gameplay. Players must learn to use the motion controls effectively in order to perform the most difficult tricks and maneuvers.

Multiplayer

Tony Hawk’s Downhill Jam features a variety of multiplayer modes. Players can compete against each other in races, or they can team up to take on challenges together. The game also features a split-screen mode, which allows up to four players to compete against each other on the same screen.

Reception

Tony Hawk’s Downhill Jam received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the game’s innovative use of the Wii Remote’s motion controls, while others criticized the game’s repetitive gameplay and lack of content. Despite the mixed reviews, the game was a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.

Legacy

Tony Hawk’s Downhill Jam is a significant game in the Tony Hawk’s series. It was the first game in the series to focus on downhill racing, and it introduced a number of new gameplay mechanics and features. The game’s innovative use of the Wii Remote’s motion controls has been praised by critics and fans alike.

Tony Hawk’s Downhill Jam is a fun and challenging downhill racing game that is sure to please fans of the Tony Hawk’s series and racing games in general. The game’s innovative use of the Wii Remote’s motion controls adds a new level of depth and challenge to the gameplay.

Additional Features

In addition to the core gameplay mechanics, Tony Hawk’s Downhill Jam also features a number of additional features, including:

  • A variety of unlockable characters, boards, and tracks
  • A challenge mode that features a variety of different challenges to complete
  • A create-a-park mode that allows players to create their own custom tracks
  • Online multiplayer support for up to four players

Conclusion

Tony Hawk’s Downhill Jam is a solid downhill racing game that is sure to please fans of the Tony Hawk’s series and racing games in general. The game’s innovative use of the Wii Remote’s motion controls adds a new level of depth and challenge to the gameplay. With its variety of gameplay modes, unlockable content, and online multiplayer support, Tony Hawk’s Downhill Jam is a game that will keep players coming back for more.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Skylanders: Spyro’s Adventure (2011)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Skylanders: Spyro’s Adventure (2011)

Introduction

Skylanders: Spyro’s Adventure is a groundbreaking action-adventure game that seamlessly blends the physical and digital worlds. Developed by Toys for Bob and published by Activision, it was released in 2011 and quickly became a global phenomenon, spawning a successful franchise that continues to captivate gamers today.

Gameplay

Skylanders: Spyro’s Adventure introduces a revolutionary “Toys-to-Life” concept, where physical toy figures interact with the game through a “Portal of Power.” Players collect these figures, each representing a unique Skylander with their own abilities and powers. By placing the figures on the Portal of Power, they are brought to life in the digital world, ready to embark on epic adventures.

The game features a diverse cast of over 30 Skylanders, each belonging to one of eight elemental types: Fire, Water, Earth, Air, Life, Undead, Tech, and Magic. Players can switch between Skylanders on the fly, strategically utilizing their elemental strengths and abilities to overcome challenges and defeat enemies.

Story

The story of Skylanders: Spyro’s Adventure revolves around the Skylanders, a group of powerful heroes who protect the Skylands from the evil Portal Master, Kaos. Kaos seeks to unleash an army of Doomlanders to conquer the Skylands, and the Skylanders must band together to stop him.

Players embark on a journey across the Skylands, visiting diverse and vibrant worlds, each with its own unique challenges and enemies. Along the way, they collect Skylanders, upgrade their abilities, and battle Kaos’s forces to restore peace and harmony to the Skylands.

Characters

Skylanders: Spyro’s Adventure features a memorable cast of characters, including:

  • Spyro: A young purple dragon and the iconic mascot of the Spyro series.
  • Gill Grunt: A tough and grumpy fish-like Skylander with water-based abilities.
  • Trigger Happy: A trigger-happy cowboy Skylander with incredible marksmanship.
  • Stealth Elf: A nimble and agile elf Skylander with stealth and archery skills.
  • Eruptor: A fiery and explosive Skylander with lava-based abilities.

Toys-to-Life Innovation

The “Toys-to-Life” concept of Skylanders: Spyro’s Adventure was a groundbreaking innovation that changed the way people played video games. It allowed players to physically interact with their characters and bring them to life in the digital world, creating a tangible and immersive gaming experience.

The Skylander figures were designed with intricate details and vibrant colors, capturing the unique personalities and abilities of each character. Players could collect, trade, and customize their Skylanders, building their own personal army of heroes.

Critical Reception and Legacy

Skylanders: Spyro’s Adventure was met with critical acclaim upon its release. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, charming characters, and seamless integration of physical and digital elements. The game won numerous awards, including “Game of the Year” from several gaming publications.

The success of Skylanders: Spyro’s Adventure spawned a thriving franchise that has released multiple sequels, spin-offs, and merchandise. The franchise has sold over 30 million copies worldwide and has become a beloved and enduring part of gaming culture.

Conclusion

Skylanders: Spyro’s Adventure is a groundbreaking and beloved action-adventure game that revolutionized the gaming industry with its innovative “Toys-to-Life” concept. With its charming characters, engaging gameplay, and seamless integration of physical and digital elements, Skylanders: Spyro’s Adventure continues to captivate gamers of all ages and remains a testament to the power of creativity and innovation in the world of video games.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Madagascar (2005)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Madagascar (2005): A Wild Adventure for the Whole Family

Released in 2005 alongside the Dreamworks animated film of the same name, Madagascar is an action-adventure game that allows players to relive the hilarious and heartwarming story of four animals who escape from the Central Park Zoo and embark on a wild journey to return home.

Gameplay

Madagascar is a third-person action-adventure game that features a variety of gameplay elements, including exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. Players take control of one of four main characters – Marty the zebra, Alex the lion, Melman the giraffe, or Gloria the hippo – each with their own unique abilities.

Marty is the fastest of the group and can use his hind legs to kick enemies and slide under obstacles. Alex is the strongest and can use his claws and roar to attack enemies. Melman is the tallest and can use his neck to reach high places and throw objects at enemies. Gloria is the heaviest and can use her weight to knock down enemies and break through obstacles.

The game is divided into chapters, each of which takes place in a different location, from the Central Park Zoo to the streets of New York City to the jungles of Madagascar. Each chapter has a variety of goals that players must complete in order to progress, such as collecting items, defeating enemies, and solving puzzles.

In addition to the main story mode, Madagascar also features a variety of bonus content, including mini-games, challenges, and behind-the-scenes footage from the making of the film.

Characters

The four main characters of Madagascar are all voiced by the same actors who voiced them in the film:

  • Marty the zebra is voiced by Chris Rock.
  • Alex the lion is voiced by Ben Stiller.
  • Melman the giraffe is voiced by David Schwimmer.
  • Gloria the hippo is voiced by Jada Pinkett Smith.

The game also features a number of other characters from the film, including the penguins Skipper, Kowalski, Rico, and Private.

Story

The story of Madagascar follows the four main characters as they escape from the Central Park Zoo and embark on a wild journey to return home. Along the way, they meet a variety of new friends and enemies, and learn about the importance of family and friendship.

The game’s story is largely faithful to the film, but there are a few minor changes. For example, in the game, the penguins are able to fly, while in the film they cannot.

Graphics

Madagascar’s graphics are colorful and vibrant, and do a good job of recreating the look and feel of the film. The character models are well-detailed and animated, and the environments are lush and inviting.

Sound

The sound in Madagascar is excellent, with great voice acting, music, and sound effects. The voice acting is particularly impressive, as the actors all perfectly capture the personalities of their characters.

Overall

Madagascar is a fun and charming action-adventure game that is perfect for fans of the film and for families looking for a cooperative gaming experience. The game’s varied gameplay, lovable characters, and heartwarming story make it a worthwhile experience for gamers of all ages.

Review Score

8/10

Pros

  • Fun and varied gameplay
  • Lovable characters
  • Heartwarming story
  • Excellent voice acting

Cons

  • Some minor graphical glitches
  • Can be a bit repetitive at times

Review Score

7.5/10

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Skylanders: Giants (2012)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Skylanders: Giants (2012)

Overview

Skylanders: Giants is a 2012 video game in the Skylanders series, a direct sequel to the 2011 game Skylanders: Spyro’s Adventure. It was developed by Toys for Bob and published by Activision. The game was released on October 21, 2012, for the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Wii, Wii U, and Nintendo 3DS.

Gameplay

Skylanders: Giants is an action-adventure platformer game. Players control one of 40 Skylanders, each with their own unique abilities. The game features a variety of levels, each with its own unique challenges and enemies. Players must use the Skylanders’ abilities to solve puzzles, defeat enemies, and collect treasure.

New to Skylanders: Giants are the Giants, larger and more powerful Skylanders that can be used to destroy obstacles and defeat enemies. Giants also have their own unique abilities, such as the ability to breathe fire or fly.

In addition to the Giants, Skylanders: Giants also introduces a number of new gameplay mechanics, such as the ability to ride vehicles and the ability to use potions to heal the Skylanders.

Story

The story of Skylanders: Giants takes place after the events of Skylanders: Spyro’s Adventure. Kaos, the main antagonist of the previous game, has returned and is once again threatening to take over Skylands. The Skylanders must band together to defeat Kaos and his army of minions.

Characters

Skylanders: Giants features a cast of 40 Skylanders, each with their own unique abilities. The Skylanders are divided into eight different elemental types: Fire, Water, Earth, Air, Life, Undead, Tech, and Magic.

Some of the most popular Skylanders in the game include:

  • Spyro – A purple dragon who is the main protagonist of the Skylanders series.
  • Gill Grunt – A blue fish-like creature who is a master of water magic.
  • Eruptor – A red volcano-like creature who can breathe fire.
  • Tree Rex – A green tree-like creature who is a master of earth magic.
  • Whirlwind – A blue tornado-like creature who is a master of air magic.

Reception

Skylanders: Giants received positive reviews from critics. The game was praised for its fun and engaging gameplay, its charming characters, and its beautiful graphics. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 4 million copies worldwide.

Legacy

Skylanders: Giants is considered to be one of the best games in the Skylanders series. The game’s success helped to spawn a number of sequels and spin-offs, and it also helped to popularize the toys-to-life video game genre.

Conclusion

Skylanders: Giants is a fun and exciting game for all ages. The game’s innovative gameplay, charming characters, and beautiful graphics make it a must-play for fans of the Skylanders series and action-adventure platformers in general.

Review Score

8/10

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The Horde (1994)

by Nish
written by Nish 7 minutes read

Summary

The Horde (1994): A Strategic Defense Classic

Released in 1994 by Toys for Bob, The Horde is a real-time strategy game that tasks players with defending their village from waves of invading Hordlings. Players take on the role of Chauncey, a humble serving lad who saves his king from choking on a fishbone and is rewarded with a magical sword, Grimthwacker, and a village to protect.

The Horde is a unique blend of strategy and action. Players must use their wits and reflexes to fend off the relentless hordes of Hordlings, who come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each with their own unique abilities. Some Hordlings are fast and agile, while others are slow and powerful. Some can fly, while others can burrow underground.

To defend against the Hordlings, players must build a variety of towers and traps. Towers can be used to attack the Hordlings directly, while traps can be used to slow them down or damage them. Players must carefully place their towers and traps in order to maximize their effectiveness.

In addition to building towers and traps, players can also use their magical sword, Grimthwacker, to attack the Hordlings. Grimthwacker is a powerful weapon, but it can only be used for a limited time each day. Players must use Grimthwacker wisely in order to get the most out of it.

As players progress through the game, they will earn experience points that can be used to upgrade their towers, traps, and Grimthwacker. Upgrading these items will make them more powerful and effective against the Hordlings.

The Horde is a challenging and rewarding game that offers a unique blend of strategy and action. With its charming graphics, addictive gameplay, and endless replayability, The Horde is a classic game that is still enjoyed by gamers today.

Gameplay

The Horde is a real-time strategy game in which players take on the role of Chauncey, a humble serving lad who has been tasked with defending his village from waves of invading Hordlings. Players must use their wits and reflexes to build towers and traps, and to use their magical sword, Grimthwacker, to fend off the relentless hordes of Hordlings.

The game is played on a grid-based map. Players can build towers and traps on any of the squares on the map. Each type of tower and trap has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. Players must carefully place their towers and traps in order to maximize their effectiveness.

In addition to building towers and traps, players can also use their magical sword, Grimthwacker, to attack the Hordlings. Grimthwacker is a powerful weapon, but it can only be used for a limited time each day. Players must use Grimthwacker wisely in order to get the most out of it.

As players progress through the game, they will earn experience points that can be used to upgrade their towers, traps, and Grimthwacker. Upgrading these items will make them more powerful and effective against the Hordlings.

The Horde is a challenging and rewarding game that offers a unique blend of strategy and action. With its charming graphics, addictive gameplay, and endless replayability, The Horde is a classic game that is still enjoyed by gamers today.

Development

The Horde was developed by Toys for Bob, a video game development company founded in 1989. The game was originally conceived as a sequel to Toys for Bob’s previous game, Star Control. However, during development, the game evolved into a unique and standalone title.

The Horde was released in 1994 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). The game was a critical and commercial success, and it was praised for its innovative gameplay, charming graphics, and addictive gameplay.

Legacy

The Horde is considered to be one of the best real-time strategy games ever made. The game’s unique blend of strategy and action, as well as its charming graphics and addictive gameplay, have made it a classic game that is still enjoyed by gamers today.

The Horde has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years, including the Game Boy Advance, PlayStation Portable, and Nintendo Switch. The game has also been released on a number of digital distribution platforms, such as Steam and GOG.com.

In 2019, Toys for Bob released a remastered version of The Horde for the Nintendo Switch. The remastered version features updated graphics and sound, as well as a number of new features, such as online multiplayer and a level editor.

Critical Reception

The Horde received critical acclaim upon its release. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, charming graphics, and addictive gameplay. Many reviewers compared the game to the classic real-time strategy game Warcraft: Orcs & Humans, and some even said that The Horde was the better game.

The Horde was also a commercial success. The game sold over one million copies worldwide, and it was one of the best-selling games on the SNES.

Awards

The Horde won a number of awards upon its release, including:

  • Game of the Year from Electronic Gaming Monthly
  • Best Strategy Game from GamePro
  • Best SNES Game from Nintendo Power

Cultural Impact

The Horde has had a significant impact on the video game industry. The game’s unique blend of strategy and action has inspired a number of other games, such as the Pikmin series and the Overlord series. The game’s charming graphics and addictive gameplay have also made it a favorite among gamers of all ages.

The Horde is a classic game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s innovative gameplay, charming graphics, and addictive gameplay have made it a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by gamers of all ages.

Review Score

8/10

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Skylanders: Imaginators (2016)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Skylanders: Imaginators: Unleash Your Imagination and Save Skylands

Prepare yourself for an epic adventure in Skylanders: Imaginators, the latest installment in the beloved Skylanders franchise. Embark on a quest to stop the evil Kaos and his Doomlanders, using the power of your imagination to create your own unique Skylanders. With the Nintendo Switch version, you can now take your Skylanders adventure on the go.

Create Your Own Skylanders

Skylanders: Imaginators introduces a groundbreaking feature that allows you to create your own Skylanders. Using the Imaginite Creation Crystals, you can customize your Skylander’s appearance, abilities, and battle class. Choose from a variety of body parts, weapons, and powers to create a Skylander that reflects your own unique style.

Sensei Skylanders: The Ultimate Masters

Alongside your Imaginators, you’ll team up with Sensei Skylanders, the ultimate masters of the almighty Sky-Chi powers. These powerful mentors will guide you on your journey and provide special abilities that can turn the tide of battle. Each Sensei belongs to a specific Battle Class, such as Knight, Sorcerer, or Smasher, and has unique skills and abilities that complement your Imaginators.

10 Battle Class Types

Choose from 10 different Battle Class types to customize your Imaginators and adapt to any combat situation. Each Battle Class has its own strengths and weaknesses, so experiment with different combinations to find the perfect team for your playstyle.

Embark on an Epic Adventure

Join forces with the Skylanders and Senseis to embark on an epic adventure to save Skylands from Kaos. Explore vibrant new worlds, solve puzzles, and battle hordes of enemies in your quest to defeat the forces of evil. Along the way, you’ll encounter new characters, discover hidden treasures, and unlock new abilities.

All-New Side Quests & Mini-Games

In addition to the main storyline, Skylanders: Imaginators offers a variety of side quests and mini-games to keep you entertained. Embark on thrilling challenges, test your skills in arena battles, and collect special items to enhance your Skylanders.

Nintendo Switch Features

The Nintendo Switch version of Skylanders: Imaginators takes advantage of the console’s unique features. Use the Digital Library for easy on-the-go access to your Skylanders toy collection. With the portability of the Switch, you can take your Skylanders adventure anywhere you go.

Conclusion

Skylanders: Imaginators is a must-play for fans of the franchise and newcomers alike. With its innovative Imaginator creation system, powerful Sensei Skylanders, and epic adventure, Imaginators offers a truly unique and engaging gaming experience. Unleash your imagination and join the Skylanders in their quest to save Skylands!

Review Score

8.5/10

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Skylanders: Trap Team (2014)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Skylanders: Trap Team (2014)

Introduction

Skylanders: Trap Team is the fourth installment in the popular Skylanders series of toys-to-life video games. Developed by Beenox and published by Activision, it was released on October 5, 2014, for PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Wii, Wii U, Xbox 360, and Xbox One.

Gameplay

Like its predecessors, Skylanders: Trap Team is an action-adventure game that combines physical toys with digital gameplay. Players collect Skylanders figures, which they can then place on the game’s Portal of Power to bring them to life in the game. Each Skylander has its own unique abilities and powers, and players can use them to solve puzzles, defeat enemies, and explore the game world.

One of the new features introduced in Trap Team is the ability to capture and play as villains. Players can do this by using Traptanium Traps, which are physical toys that can be purchased separately. Once a villain has been captured, players can use it to fight alongside their Skylanders.

Trap Team also introduces a new type of Skylander called Trap Masters. Trap Masters are more powerful than regular Skylanders, and they have the ability to trap villains in their Traps. Trapped villains can then be used to power up Trap Masters, giving them new abilities and powers.

Story

The story of Skylanders: Trap Team begins with Kaos, the evil Portal Master, discovering the location of the legendary Cloudcracker Prison. Cloudcracker Prison is a fortress built entirely out of the magical substance Traptanium, and it is home to Skylands’ most nefarious baddies.

Kaos blows up the prison, releasing the most wanted villains and blasting shards of Traptanium to Earth in the form of Traps. Now it’s up to Portal Masters to recapture all of the escaped villains using powerful Traptanium Traps and defeat Kaos before it’s too late!

Characters

Skylanders: Trap Team features a cast of over 50 playable characters, including both Skylanders and villains. Some of the new Skylanders introduced in Trap Team include:

  • Food Fight – A vegetable-themed Skylander who can shoot peas, carrots, and other vegetables at his enemies.
  • Head Rush – A daredevil Skylander who can perform gravity-defying stunts and attacks.
  • Smolderdash – A fire-breathing Skylander who can use his flames to attack enemies and solve puzzles.

Some of the villains that can be captured and played as in Trap Team include:

  • Wolfgang – A werewolf who is Kaos’s right-hand man.
  • Drill Sergeant – A drill-wielding goblin who is always ready for a fight.
  • Chompy Mage – A giant chomping plant who can eat enemies whole.

Reception

Skylanders: Trap Team received positive reviews from critics, with many praising its innovative gameplay, charming characters, and fun story. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide.

Legacy

Skylanders: Trap Team is considered to be one of the best games in the Skylanders series. It introduced a number of new features and characters that were well-received by fans, and it helped to expand the Skylanders universe. Trap Team was also the last Skylanders game to be released on the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 consoles.

Conclusion

Skylanders: Trap Team is a fun and exciting action-adventure game that is perfect for fans of the Skylanders series and newcomers alike. With its innovative gameplay, charming characters, and fun story, Trap Team is sure to provide hours of enjoyment.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Pandemonium 2 (1997)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Pandemonium 2: A Whimsical and Challenging Platforming Adventure

Released in 1997 for the Nintendo 64, Pandemonium 2 is a 2D platformer that combines charming visuals, tight controls, and challenging level design to create a memorable and rewarding experience. Players take control of Nikki, a young sorceress, and Fargus, a pyromaniac court jester, as they race against the evil Goon Queen Zorrscha to claim the magic of the Comet of Infinite Possibilities.

A Vibrant and Imaginative World

One of the most striking things about Pandemonium 2 is its visual style. The game’s world is a vibrant and imaginative blend of medieval fantasy and steampunk, with lush forests, towering castles, and floating islands. The character designs are equally impressive, with Nikki and Fargus being particularly memorable.

The game’s levels are varied and creative, taking players through everything from underground caverns to haunted forests to floating airships. Each level is filled with hidden secrets and challenges, rewarding exploration and experimentation.

Tight Controls and Fluid Gameplay

Pandemonium 2’s controls are tight and responsive, making it a joy to play. Nikki and Fargus both have their own unique abilities, which can be used to solve puzzles and overcome obstacles. Nikki can use her magic to cast spells and create platforms, while Fargus can use his fireballs to attack enemies and light torches.

The game’s physics are also well-tuned, allowing for precise platforming and fluid movement. This is essential in a game that requires players to make quick jumps and navigate complex environments.

Challenging but Fair Level Design

Pandemonium 2 is a challenging game, but it’s also fair. The levels are designed to test players’ skills, but they’re never impossible to beat. The game also features a generous checkpoint system, so players don’t have to worry about losing too much progress if they die.

The game’s difficulty curve is well-paced, with the early levels being relatively easy and the later levels becoming more challenging. This allows players to learn the game’s mechanics and gradually improve their skills.

A Memorable Cast of Characters

Nikki and Fargus are both memorable and endearing characters. Nikki is a powerful sorceress, but she’s also kind and compassionate. Fargus is a bit of a goofball, but he’s also brave and loyal.

The game’s supporting cast is equally well-developed. There’s King Burnelius, the wise and benevolent ruler of Lyr; Zorrscha, the evil Goon Queen; and a host of other colorful characters.

A Timeless Classic

Pandemonium 2 is a timeless classic that still holds up today. Its charming visuals, tight controls, and challenging level design make it a must-play for fans of 2D platformers. If you’re looking for a game that will challenge your skills and provide hours of enjoyment, Pandemonium 2 is the perfect choice.

Tips for Playing Pandemonium 2

  • Use Nikki’s magic to create platforms and solve puzzles.
  • Use Fargus’ fireballs to attack enemies and light torches.
  • Experiment with different character combinations to find the one that suits you best.
  • Don’t be afraid to explore the levels and find hidden secrets.
  • If you’re stuck, don’t hesitate to use the game’s generous checkpoint system.

Conclusion

Pandemonium 2 is a charming and challenging platformer that’s still a blast to play today. Its vibrant visuals, tight controls, and well-designed levels make it a must-play for fans of the genre. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the series, Pandemonium 2 is a game that you won’t want to miss.

Review Score

8.5/10

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