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Tuesday, 1 January 2008

'The Simpsons Game' DS

This is the latest Simpsons game out with similar versions released for the Xbox 360, Playstation 3 and Nintendo Wii. Looking back at past Simpsons games theres not much worth shouting about; the majority of them are basically cash-ins which you shouldn't take a second look at. The most notable were 'Simpsons Road Rage' allowing you to free-roam around Springfield, and 'Simpsons, Hit & Run' which was similar to Road Rage but with new features and gameplay improvements. Looking at the present 'The Simpsons Game' for the DS you might think it's followed the path of its predecessors, but this is far from the case.

If there is just one reason why you should buy the game it is because of the gags. It is filled with one-liners that won't get old. If you're a big fan of the Simpsons TV series then you could stop reading this review now and buy yourself a copy of the game safe in the knowledge that you've made a good investment because you'll greatly appreciate the humour in this game. Otherwise read on, there are plenty more reasons why you should get your hands on this game.

The graphics and animation aren't drawn up by a game developer who knows nothing about the Simpsons, its clear that the Simpsons cartoonists have contributed a lot to the game with brilliantly drawn, simpsons-style backgrounds, characters, objects and cutscenes. The animation is also superb with the characters moving the way you would expect them to and you will hear the original Simpsons voices all of which contribute to the feeling that you are in a real simpsons cartoon.

The gameplay isn't as simple as it has been in past games. You will play as each member of the simpsons family who have special abilities for example Homer can transform into a round-shaped obese version of himself allowing him to roll over enemies and break barriers. More than often you will have to use each family member's special abilities to assist each other's progress through the level. In one case you might have Bart fly across a ravine using his bartman ability to press a button that will form a bridge for homer to walk across.

The game's storyline is also very good; you will be taken to several interesting locations including 'Chocalate Land' and the 'Game Engine Word'. In addition, you will come across situations you've seen in the series such as the dolphin invasion. And finally, playing though the whole of the game is definetely worth doing as there is a great ending to look forward to. There are some extras that add longetivity such as collecting beer bottles and coupons to be rewarded with cards at the Android's Dungeon and a 'Pet Homer' mode where you can use the stylus to manipulate objects and use them on Homer.

In all, The Simpsons Game on the DS is a great game to waste some time with and at £25 is good value so you have every reason to buy a copy.

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