Drawn to Life

While many gamers may not be drawn to Drawn to Life, the youngsters will probably enjoy seeing their creations in the game and the simple gameplay.

Older gamers will likely find it too cutesy, but younger gamers -- especially budding videogame artists -- will find a lot to like here.

However, your illustrative prowess doesn't affect gameplay, so in the end you're a little more than a window dresser for what is otherwise a familiar retread. [Oct 2007, p.127]

It's always good to see innovation like this. [Issue#19, p.89]

Older players may find that the generic platforming isn’t enough to hold their interest past the drawing and coloring, but younger players who weren’t raised on Mario will find plenty to love.

Whether you see the drawing as innovative or gimmicky will determine if you'll like this. [Nov 2007, p.72]

It's a great game for a younger DS audience who will be thrilled simply by seeing their creations run around the screen and get wrapped up in the narrative (and maybe even trade creations with their friends), but older gamers will find disappointment around every turn in the creative freedom that it hints at but never truly delivers on.

It doesn’t matter what kind of artistic talent you may or may not have... absolutely anyone can be proud of the products of their imagination.

Unfortunately, the worthwhile drawing concept is let down by some rather ropey platforming action. Levels are somewhat uninspired, reminding us of the doldrums of the Amiga era. Jumping feels too floaty, and shooting imprecise. More irritating, you can't save mid-way through the longish levels.

Cutesy game based on a fun and original idea of drawing your own world. But, despite lots of innovation, the underlying game is unlikely to captivate older players.

Drawn to Life is perfect for younger or novice gamers who enjoy the artistic aspects the game offers and prefer their action lightweight. It’s a great concept and overall, done well, but once you get over the stylus drawing and coloring pad gimmick.

Drawn to Life is a great example of a game which uses the DS very well. Being able to create the look of the main character, and the environment around him, is a great feature, but unfortunately it’s the only exceptional aspect of the game.

Designing your own gaming world has so much potential, sadly let down by limited vision and scope. It doesn't help that the gameplay is about as exciting as our bank statements. [Dec 2007, p.86]