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Wall-E (PS2)

• Developer: THQ
• Publisher: THQ
• Genre: Platform
• Official Website: http://wall-e.playthq.com
• Score: 3 of 5: Bargain Bin

Being the tie-in video game of a movie is tough. Add to that being the tie-in of a movie that doesn't feature much action and you get mixed results, and WALL-E is no exception to the rule. Based off of the movie of the same name, you take control of the eponymous robot of the popular Pixar movie as you maneuver him around a garbage encrusted Earth. All is well until his life is changed by the arrival of another robot, EVE. Captivated by her, WALL-E follows EVE into space as they work together to bring proof of the healing Earth to the remaining humans.

This standard platformer doesn't bring anything new to the table, but the humor and charm of the movie are more matched to the game here than on the other next-generation systems. Levels consist of getting from point A to point B as WALL-E uses different garbage blocks to gather batteries used to open gates into the next area. Level designs are suitable for the younger audience this game strives to please; puzzles are simple and straightforward. Moving WALL-E around his environment proves to be the most difficult aspect of this title, as some areas require a certain precision that will have you falling off of the same beam over and over. For ample exploration you can find hidden objects that are worth finding for their humorous cut-scenes more than for the unlockable artwork.

Breaking up the monotony of the puzzle levels are random racing sections that have you ducking and jumping while you play as WALL-E or avoiding obstacles while playing as EVE. For as short as these levels are, they are a real blast and warrant multiple replays because they are done so well. Combat on the other hand is painful. Using blocks to throw, or your minimal laser to blast enemies, WALL-E must fight his way through security robots that seem to have a distinct advantage. The frustration becomes apparent when you have the garbage block knocked from your hands for the twelfth time and the enemies just keep coming.

Graphics are well executed on the PS2, better proportionally than either the PS3 or 360 versions for the price, and load times are significantly shorter as well. Rarely will an older generation console get the best of a multi-platform release, but here is the exception to the rule. If you like platformers that are good for younger gamers then the PS2 version of this game is the one you want to aim for, as all others don't quite achieve the fun and charm this platform presents.

ESRB: E for Everyone
Plays Like: Any old action platformer
Pros: Easy fun that follows the movie of the same name
Cons: Weak Combat

Oct 22, 2008 | 0 comments
Paul Bishop