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Pirates Hunt Nintendo Wii

Format:
Nintendo Wii

Genre:
Minigames

Further reading:
Mini games

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

Pirates Hunt for Blackbeard's Booty is another game in Activision's Fun4All series. Although packaged in a similar fashion, these games fluctuate in their best audience. Here we have a game that provides a more engaging experience than the likes of Block Party Wii or World Championship Sports Wii.

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

Mini games come in a variety of shapes and sizes. What unites the genre is the speed with which players can pickup the games and the relatively short time required to complete a level or two.

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

Pirates Hunt for Blackbeard's Booty provides a set of games that take the player through a treasure map adventure. The game starts with five games unlocked and more are added as players progress through the map. Unlike other minigames there is a real sense of progression through the different experiences.

The games themselves match the story in that they are longer, more tactical and engaging. Some are more typical minigame fare, such as the Wii-mote controlled shooting stages. But others, like the rowing and croquet challenges are closer to being sports in their own right. up to four players can play against or with each other. Before starting players can select their characters, weapons and teams. This again adds a little complexity to proceedings along with more tactical team play.

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

Players will be attracted to the pirate themed minigames, and rightly so. Both the visuals and activities on offer hear do justice to the hype. Even early games, such as croquet or rowing, create some great competitive moments. I way aghast when my four year old managed to outwit me in the croquet, sending my ball flying in the wrong direction. Something he found hysterical.

And when can I take a break...

The more in depth experiences here make the games last a lot longer than other minigames. Some have a predetermined duration, but others can go on for a good half an hour when played by a group of similarly skilled competitors.

This is a great game for who...

Very young players will find the tactics, teams and longer games a little taxing. This is a game more suited to those with a few years of school under their belts. Intermediates who are happy to forgive the juvenile visuals and gimmicky setting will discover a strong set of sports game on offer here.

Experts will be better served by the likes of Mario and Sonic at the Olympics Wii for their competitive minigame fun.

Written by Andy Robertson

You can support Andy by buying Pirates Hunt



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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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