Death Jr.: Root of Evil

Though it could be viewed at first glance as a warmed-over port of a middling PSP title, DJ finds new life on the Wii through its tight control scheme and clever writing

Good controls most of time.

Overall, Death Jr.: Root of Evil is another solid platform entry in this largely successful franchise.

Ultimately, however, we think you'll prefer to have a friend close by as you experience the game. Root of Evil may not be to die for, but for $40, it's an easy way to kill a weekend.

It’s still not an “amazing” title by any account, as the core game was fairly simple, short, and mainly a generic pocket version of a competent action/platformer, but the added Wii IR controls and stylistic offering of Root of Evil Wii could still make it a solid purchase for Wii owners that – rightfully – are looking for an entertaining action game with some decent co-op and competent controls.

Death Jr. Root of Evil manages to convincingly sidestep the bargain bucket graveyard thanks to its character appeal, solid platform action, amusing and inventive weaponry, and a control system that largely succeeds in papering over any emergent sense of creeping mediocrity.

The great art style and smart writing sometimes mask the staid gameplay, but, in the end, the cookie cutter platforming buries the game's strengths.

Forty dollars is a little steep for a cookie-cutter game with bad camera control and repetitive levels.

Using the Wii remote to look around and shoot is a big improvement that addresses the PSP version's camera issues, and it's an overall better-looking game. [July 2008, p.88]

Improvements over the PSP game make the Wii version of Root of Evil a competent, stylish platformer.

Great for young kids, but not so much fun for serious gamers. [Issue#23, p.64]

The levels are colorful but dull, and after a mere five minutes a lurking sense of deja vu descends. Dead poor. [July 2008, p.82]