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A good Shrek game from the handheld masters at Vicarious Visions. Before I go on I must mention that this is going to be a rather short review since there just isn’t that much to discuss in the game.
The Shrek videogame license has done a total 180. Activision is replacing TDK Mediactive as the game’s publisher, and they have chosen veteran GBA developers, Vicarious Visions, instead of Tose, for the game. The result is a rather different and satisfying experience.
In Shrek 2, players go through 25 levels which use one of the character’s special abilities. The titular Shrek is strong so he can carry items and butt-stomp stuff, and the levels he stars in make good use of these abilities. The fan-favorite Donkey has a better jump and can kick walls down. There are three other playable characters in game, basically those found in the film which includes a good bit of surprises. In fact, the game’s story mirrors the movie almost exactly. If you haven’t seen it, and plan to, don’t finish the game as it will reveal several key story points before you are ready to know them.
Along the way, you’ll find items like ghosts which enable you to pass enemies without being noticed or a fairy which allows you to float. Moreover, often times you’ll control multiple characters and be able to use their special abilities at the same time. Nonetheless, with unlimited continues the game won’t be very hard to anyone except younger gamers. At the same time, it is more challenging and fun to play for older players than previous Shrek GBA titles were.
The most notable change in Shrek 2 compared to the other games is the new art style. Take a look at the screenshots of Shrek Reekin' Havoc and you’ll see what I mean. Instead of a deformed Shrek (which, let’s face it, isn’t a stunner to begin with) you are given 3D models straight from the film. The animation is excellent as are the level designs. Vicarious Visions did a great job at bringing the Shrek atmosphere to the GBA.
The game’s background music is rather standard stuff, nothing too particularly noticeable in the whole audio package, in fact. You’ll find the memorable Shrek theme at the title screen but not much else.
Vicarious Visions always provides strong GBA sidescrollers and Shrek 2 is no different. If you have been staying away from the franchise because of previous efforts, give Shrek 2 a try. -- Jose Liz, PGNx Media
---- May 27, 2004
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