Code Lyoko
SCORE: 76
The Game Factory has really been branching out to older members of the family with their most recent releases. Code Lyoko on the Nintendo DS is a game for the almost teenager to the teenager who is into the television show. The ESRB rated this game E10+ for Everyone 10 and older. I would bump that up to say thirteen years old. Code Lyoko is split into two different kinds of game play. The real world is played in a 2D small area of a town where players have to find the right items, talk to the right people, etc. to progress the story. When players go into the Lyoko digital world they enter a full 3D world where combat is done against viruses (which visually look like monsters).
The graphics in Code Lyoko are a mixed bag depending on the area of the game. The 2D areas are so very nicely drawn. The details are great, and the colors are generally nice. The 3D world of Lyoko is rather bland, and generic. Rounding out the graphics is the cut scenes that look like they are right off a DVD. There are violent images, but the enemies vanish leaving data behind that can be collected. On rare occasions the camera would move causing me to walk off an edge to my death.
The one word I would use to describe the sounds in Code Lyoko is majestic. The music is stellar, and I really enjoy listening to it. In fact the music alone has me taking an interest in checking out the television show on DVD one of these days. There was some minor name calling that was really unnecessary, but present.
One of the more surprising aspects for me concerning Code Lyoko is the lack of replay value. The levels can get a little repetitive, but there are enough different special attacks to unlock to keep it somewhat fresh for most of the game. The 2D levels do get a little easy even though a lot of the story is being imparted in that part of the game. Fans of the show should check out this game, and those interested in an interesting blended style of game that has very high production value.
Both of the control schemes work generally well. The usage of the touch screen is nice, but not overbearing. Many of the levels look and feel very similar to the point that I could tell exactly when a fight would be taking place. The combat is pretty simple even with all the different attacks.
I was dismayed to see school age children lying to their
parents, stealing from school administrators, vandalizing the school,
and other disturbing behavior all in the name of stopping the virus
X.A.N.A.. On the other hand respect is shown to parents and authority
figures. I would like to see some sequels to this franchise.
- Paul
Graphics: 75%
Sound: 86%
Replay/Extras: 73%
Gameplay: 80%
Family Friendly Factor: 68%
System:
Nintendo DS
Publisher: The Game Factory
Rating: 'E10+' for Everyone 10+
{Mild Fantasy Violence}
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