The Simpsons Game

The Simpsons Game for the DS might not look quite as visually impressive as its counterparts on the bigger consoles, but it offers many hours of fun, and - as already mentioned - is worth buying simply for the lovingly crafted Simpsons cut-scenes.

The platforming side is mostly fun with only a handful of irritating sections that are a challenge to complete, and while the difficulty is refreshing, at choice points it borders on the frustrating due to a dodgy combat system and the annoying absence of a compensating gap between the action as you move from bottom screen to top screen.

Humorously spoofing some classic games throughout the experience, the game has a lot to offer gamers even though the main game is really short.

Though much of what makes it good has been lifted from the console renditions (script, level ideas, voice-over), the DS developers give the handheld gamers a unique gameplay experience.

In the end, what you are presented with is a very solid Simpsons title. Its humor, as stated, goes beyond just pleasing regular and hardcore Simpsons fans. So aside from the camera, the game is just find-diddly-ine to go on out and pick up.

Though brief, The Simpsons Game on the DS satisfies from start to finish.

Whether it's playing through a level that's obviously a rip-off of Gauntlet, the inclusion of a double jump, pits that cause instant death, or enemies who resemble some of the most memorable characters in gaming, The Simpsons Game takes 2D platforming, points out its clichés, and then uses them anyways.

Very colorful and detailed levels plus very interesting cut scenes between levels.

A solid gaming experience. Platformers may be an overdone genre of games, but The Simpsons Game does a decent job of providing a good game, while not necessarily an innovative one.

A classic example of style over substance.

Follows the template of the console versions to produce a competent 2D platformer. [Feb 2008, p.78]

We loved the game's self referential tone at times, but calling itself out on its own tired shortcomings can't really save the gameplay.

If you're looking for a quality platformer on the DS, there are plenty of better choices out there. If you're looking for a funny game, however, The Simpsons Game ranks near the top of the list.

It's relatively entertaining but more as a result of its set-pieces, one-liners and occasional clever detail than its gameplay, which is uninspired.

If you want a laugh, the show's a much better bet, and if you want to play a decent platformer you might as well dust off NEW Super Mario Bros.