6.7

Megamind: Ultimate Showdown

Before I start this review... I won't be scolding or condescending about this game because even though it is tainted as a movie-based game, it was not designed for older gamers. No, Megamind: Ultimate Showdown is a game for kids that has a relatively simplistic control system and traditional arcade gaming. Loosely based on the movie, players control the blue headed former villain turned hero. Unfortunately for our blue coloured "hero", the city that he protects has been inundated with crime and the Doom Syndicate and their Doom Goons are causing the city grief. It's time to don your cape, throw your sidekick Minion in the car and start ridding the streets of Doom Goons.

The gameplay of Ultimate Showdown is quite linear as you make your way through the various different environments that have been inspired by the movie. You do have some set goals in the levels such as collecting the parts for your DNA tracker that have been stolen by the goons and lots of more goodies for points. Most levels require you to jump around, defeat enemies and collect items to upgrade your weapons. I must admit that the gun in Megamind: Ultimate Showdown was actually quite fun to use later on in the game. I think the biggest problem with the game is that it doesn’t offer anything new to the gamer as opposed to a cash-in on the movie. Some additional variety would have gone a long way.

In terms of navigating the environment, the control system has been well mapped on the controller and most younger gamers will have no problems in mastering the gameplay mechanics as you explore, defeat enemies and shoot your way through an almost never ending line-up of enemies and the occasional boss battles such as the Blue Tighten. Enemies are generally quite standard and don’t offer that much of a challenge, expect if your health is quite low. Boss battles on the other hand may cause a little bit of frustration as you need to work out the tactic to defeat them.

The interface of the game is quite easy to use and there is a map that helps point you in the right direction of basically where to go next. In essence, it's a map of the city with certain trouble spots. Like games such as Ratchet & Clank, you have access to a sidekick who is generally there for some additional comedy relief and basic assistance. Best of all the, the single-player mode allows for another player to join in as they control your sidekick which does make the game a little more fun, although sometimes the camera goes a little askew if you're not in tune with the other player.

Graphically, the game is an "ok" looking game but don't expect any A-Grade graphics here. The graphics do mimic the cartoon well and replicate certain areas but overall, the environments are a little bland and basic at times. The characters are however well animated and look identical to their movie counterpart that is good and there’s the occasional cutscene thrown in for good measures.  There's some nice use of lighting and a few special effects throw in for good measures to help liven up the game. The voice acting of the game is enjoyable and almost sounds like the characters from Megamind the movie.

It may not be the next Super Mario Mega Spectacular All-Star Nintendo Circus Arcade game or some other top billing title but what Megamind: Ultimate Showdown is, is a basic arcade game on a relatively enjoyable film. It's definitely aimed at children and if they enjoyed the movie, they will thoroughly enjoy this arcade game. My 10-year old niece wickedly enjoyed this title, however my 14-year old nephew thought it was too slow and dare I say… a little lame. My problem with the game is that the developers didn’t try to outdo themselves and chose the easy path as opposed to something that would have made people think, this is the game to play. If you loved the movie, the game is probably for you but maybe check it out as a rent first.