Summary
- Release Year: 2006
- Genres: Adventure
- Platforms: Nintendo GameCube, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 2, Wii
- Developers: Artificial Mind & Movement
- Publishers: Midway Games
The Ant Bully (2006): A Bug’s-Eye View of Adventure
Released in 2006, The Ant Bully is a 3D action-adventure game based on the animated film of the same name. Developed by Artificial Mind and Movement and published by Midway Games, the game puts players in control of Lucas Nickle, a 10-year-old boy who torments an ant colony until they shrink him down to their size.
Gameplay
The Ant Bully is played from a third-person perspective, and most actions are context-sensitive, performed with the press of one button. For example, Lucas automatically jumps when running off a ledge. Players control Lucas as he explores the ant colony and its surroundings, completing missions and collecting items.
Missions in The Ant Bully are varied and include fighting enemies, collecting items, and solving puzzles. Players can also use Lucas’s special abilities, such as the ability to shrink or grow in size, to overcome obstacles and complete missions.
As players complete missions, they earn medals. Medals are worth varying amounts, depending on how well the player performed the mission: gold medals are worth 50 points, silver medals are worth 30 points, and bronze medals are worth 10 points. Players can use these medals to unlock special abilities every time they reach 300 points.
Setting
The Ant Bully takes place in the backyard of Lucas’s house. The game’s world is large and detailed, with a variety of different environments to explore, such as a garden, a sandbox, and a pool. The game’s world is also home to a variety of different insects, including ants, bees, and spiders.
Characters
The Ant Bully features a cast of colorful characters, including:
- Lucas Nickle: The game’s protagonist, Lucas is a 10-year-old boy who torments an ant colony until they shrink him down to their size.
- Hova: The leader of the ant colony, Hova is a wise and benevolent ant who teaches Lucas the importance of respect and compassion.
- Zoc: A worker ant who is initially hostile to Lucas, but eventually comes to see him as a friend.
- Fugax: A soldier ant who is loyal to Hova and the ant colony.
- Thrax: The game’s main antagonist, Thrax is a termite who wants to destroy the ant colony.
Reception
The Ant Bully received mixed reviews upon release. Some critics praised the game’s charming visuals and fun gameplay, while others criticized its repetitive missions and lack of challenge. However, the game was a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.
Legacy
The Ant Bully is a fun and charming 3D action-adventure game that provides players with a unique perspective on the world of insects. The game’s positive message about respect and compassion makes it a great choice for families and players of all ages.
Tips for Playing The Ant Bully
Here are a few tips for playing The Ant Bully:
- Use your special abilities to your advantage. Lucas’s ability to shrink or grow in size can be used to overcome obstacles and complete missions.
- Explore the game’s world thoroughly. There are many hidden items and secrets to discover in The Ant Bully.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help. The ants in the colony are always willing to help Lucas out.
- Have fun! The Ant Bully is a lighthearted and enjoyable game that’s perfect for a relaxing afternoon of gaming.
Review Score
7.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
