Those who have seen the second Narnia film in theaters will probably remember the scene in which an enraged minotuar runs around collecting spinning gold and silver pieces strewn around the land. Then again, maybe the developers of Prince Caspian viewed a different movie than the rest of us.
As typical licensed movie fodder, Caspian fares better than some. The hectic, loaded action sequences on a battlefield the size of a typical Dynasty Warriors skirmish is impressive. The fighting mechanics work nicely to throw the player into the fray.
A varied selection of characters keeps the game fresh. Instead of simply controlling the four children in their quest to restore Narnia, the player will gain control of numerous character options, though few have any noticeable difference. While dwarves and mice can fit into smaller areas, and some may be able to lift heavy objects, there’s nothing to separate them other than a few contextual moves.
Exploration is dull, as the levels have a hub which serves as a transport to the missions across the land. Some, such as the all out fights with an array of enemies on screen are enjoyable. Sadly, many of the objectives take the player away from that combat. Whether it’s to find a certain object to complete a puzzle or destroy a specific item, it always feels like you’re being led away from the real game.
The level hubs have their own mysteries to solve, and loads of collectibles. Finding health increasing gold and silver pieces or keys is a simple affair. Each time the level reloads, all of the bonuses do as well. Earning the keys to unlock the treasure chests in the area leads to extras such as compressed film clips or stills.
In crowded scenarios, finding the right character can be a problem. Instead of letting the Y button cycle through the available players, the developers decided to force the gamer to walk up to the right choice and press the button. When there are five characters closely circling behind, this can be a frustrating affair.
The opening level proves a bonus to Narnia fans as it portrays a battle not seen in the film. The rest sticks closely with the movie script, extending any possible scene to increase the play time. This includes the less exciting moments such as the kids finding their weapons which lasts mere minutes in the film. Here it’s an hour-long exercise in simplistic puzzle solving and drab graphics.
Two player co-op, local only, allows a friend to jump in and out of the proceedings whenever they please. It’s apparent this is game design geared for the solo gamer. There is a strict limitation on movement, and both players must be within the same camera view. It’s impossible to go off in different directions, or take on any strategy in a battle sequence.
Narnia tries, which to its credit, is more than most movie to game adaptations do. Instead of the adventure aspects, this one should have been focused on the epic battle scenes. That’s where this title’s strength lies and there’s far too little of it to go around.
2/5
Tags: narnia, prince caspian, review, xbox 360