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The Munchables Nintendo Wii

Format:
Nintendo Wii

Genre:
Platforming

Further reading:
Platforming games

Buy/Support:
Support Andy, click to buy via us...

The Munchables joins a host of quality action platform games for the Wii. Added interest here though is the eating theme that turns the game into an attraactive experience for younger players.

It's one of those type of game genres...

Platforming games task you with getting from point A to point B. The world you journey through is usually based on different levels, and populated with enemies, switches and lifts to be negotiated. As you work through each level you pick up various collectables that accrue score, special abilities and access to hidden areas.

But why is it any better than the others...

Players work their way through a series of themed worlds. They progress by eating larger and larger vegetables and aliens (and 150 other things). As the on screen character eats it gets bigger and bigger, this enables it to then consume larger meals blocking its way.

Movement is controlled with the Nun-chuck whilst jumping is a flick of the Wii-mote and eating is a button press. The world itself is three dimensions and consists of moving and static platforms. Although players can't die from falling, a missed jump sometimes means having to retrace your steps to get back to the point where you can try again.

Levels are ocmpleted when you have grown big enough to consume the alien generating flying saucer. You are then award a grade for your performance. End level bosses guard progression from one world to the next and must be defeated before you move on.

So what experience should I play this game for...

Players will be attracted to the rich and vibrant environments. But what's not clear bofore hand is how funny this all is to the younger audience. Players will devour delectable enemies as they guide their quirky heroes in this zany alien munching mash-up. Eating your way to take on Don Onion and his delicious minions, The Munchables will leave you hungry for more!

And when can I take a break...

Levels start quite short but soon include puzzle elements that take longer to solve. You can't save mid way through a level which means players will want to complete the one they are on before concluding the session.

This is a great game for who...

Younger players and novices may find the necessity of both Wii-mote and Nun-chuck a little much. Our four and six year old teamed up to solve this. One controlled running around whilst the other looked after jumping and eating. Even then they still needed a little direction now and again from Dad.

Intermediate players who are of a juvinile bent will find the game entertaining and well paced. There is enough to do to keep them busy, without too many spikes in difficulty.

Experts may find the sacharine visuals a little much to bear, and would maybe better off with a more series platform puzzle game. Mercury Revolutiuon Wii offers aninteresting alternative for them.

Experts will want to look elsewhere for their platforming fun unless they have younger siblings to entertain. For them, Mario Galaxy Wii may be a better bet.

Written by Andy Robertson

You can support Andy by buying The Munchables



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Andy Robertson writes the Family Gamer column.

"Videogame reviews for the whole family, not just the kids. I dig out videogame experiences to intrigue and interest grownups and children. This is post-hardcore gaming where accessibility, emotion and storytelling are as important as realism, explosions and bravado."

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