Codename: Kids Next Door – Operation: V.I.D.E.O.G.A.M.E. (2005)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Codename: Kids Next Door – Operation: V.I.D.E.O.G.A.M.E. (2005)

Introduction

Codename: Kids Next Door – Operation: V.I.D.E.O.G.A.M.E. is a 2005 platformer video game based on the American animated television series Codename: Kids Next Door. It was developed by High Voltage Software and published by Cartoon Network Interactive. The game was released for the Nintendo GameCube, Xbox, and PlayStation 2 in North America, Europe, and Australia.

Gameplay

Operation: V.I.D.E.O.G.A.M.E. is a 3D platformer in which the player controls one of six operatives from the Kids Next Door. Each operative has their own unique abilities and weapons. The player must use these abilities to navigate the game’s levels, defeat enemies, and solve puzzles.

The game features a variety of levels, each with its own unique theme and challenges. The player must use their platforming skills to traverse the levels, avoiding hazards and defeating enemies. The game also features a number of boss battles, in which the player must use their skills and weapons to defeat powerful enemies.

In addition to the main story mode, the game also features a number of bonus levels and minigames. These bonus levels and minigames can be unlocked by completing certain challenges in the main story mode.

Plot

The game’s story begins with the Kids Next Door on a mission to stop Father from taking over the world. Father has created a powerful video game console called the V.I.D.E.O.G.A.M.E., which he plans to use to brainwash children and turn them into his slaves.

The Kids Next Door must infiltrate Father’s lair and destroy the V.I.D.E.O.G.A.M.E. console. To do this, they must travel through a variety of levels, defeat Father’s minions, and solve puzzles.

Along the way, the Kids Next Door are joined by a new ally, Numbuh 362. Numbuh 362 is a skilled hacker who can use her skills to help the Kids Next Door overcome the challenges they face.

Characters

The player can control one of six operatives from the Kids Next Door in Operation: V.I.D.E.O.G.A.M.E.:

  • Numbuh 1 is the leader of the Kids Next Door. He is a skilled fighter and strategist.
  • Numbuh 2 is the second-in-command of the Kids Next Door. He is a skilled inventor and engineer.
  • Numbuh 3 is the weapons expert of the Kids Next Door. She is a skilled fighter and marksman.
  • Numbuh 4 is the demolition expert of the Kids Next Door. He is a skilled fighter and explosives expert.
  • Numbuh 5 is the medic of the Kids Next Door. She is a skilled healer and nurse.
  • Numbuh 6 is the technical expert of the Kids Next Door. He is a skilled hacker and computer expert.

Development

Operation: V.I.D.E.O.G.A.M.E. was developed by High Voltage Software, a video game development studio based in Chicago, Illinois. The game was directed by John Melchior, who had previously worked on the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater series.

The game was developed using the Havok physics engine, which allowed for realistic physics and character movement. The game’s graphics were created using a combination of cel-shading and traditional 3D rendering techniques.

Reception

Operation: V.I.D.E.O.G.A.M.E. received mixed reviews from critics. Some critics praised the game’s graphics, gameplay, and humor, while others criticized its repetitive level design and lack of innovation.

The game was a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide. It was the best-selling Kids Next Door video game, and it helped to popularize the series among gamers.

Legacy

Operation: V.I.D.E.O.G.A.M.E. is remembered as a fun and challenging platformer that captured the spirit of the Codename: Kids Next Door cartoon series. The game’s unique art style, humor, and gameplay made it a standout title in the platformer genre.

Operation: V.I.D.E.O.G.A.M.E. has been cited as an influence on a number of subsequent platformer games, including Psychonauts and Ratchet & Clank. The game’s success helped to pave the way for other Codename: Kids Next Door video games, including Codename: Kids Next Door – Galactic Kids Next Door and Codename: Kids Next Door – Operation: INTERVIEWS.

Review Score

7.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.

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