Disney Planes has been released on the Nintendo consoles. Here’s a look at the Wii U version…
Graphics
One of the things that is probably noticed first of any game is how does it look? This game has a fairly good look to it. It’s not too cartoony, but that may also be a drawback for it. There are some things that pop out too much in it. It’s not bad visually, where some 3D perspective games have problems, this doesn’t have very many. But, it’s not as polished as it could be. In the end, it’s not too distracting for the game and is excusable for a movie based game.
Controls
The second thing to notice about a game are the controls. I’m happy to report that this is one of the smoothest of controls for a flying game. It’s very simple which lets anyone get in the game immediately. Playing on the Game Pad, the left control stick steers the plane, and the right control stick delivers tricks. The A button makes use of special attachments. So very simple, but it’s not a bad thing for how the game is deceptively complex. More on that later. Back to with the controls, in a world where games just don’t have the character do what you want them to do, this was refreshing. The controls are tight and responsive. Just the way I wish other games responded.
Story
I don’t know if I can quite qualify it all as a story because there’s only one piece that unites each mission. But, that’s okay. The main point I will make is this is not a rehashing of the movie’s plot. It’s surprising, frankly. I thought I would have to have the plot recited to me in ways that would not make sense because of leaving out certain details. Instead, this takes place after the movie, and features more backstory on the characters. It was a great relief and treat to someone who liked the movie.
Game Play
Like I said in the Controls paragraph, the game is deceptively complex. I thought that there were simple missions that could get boring after a while because of doing the same thing. What I’m finding is that there is great depth to the game. Achievements unlock more settings and special galleries. Each character also has distinct missions that also give more of an extended backstory. Though that A button works for all special attachments in all missions, what it does is a little different and challenging each time. You may be shooting at a target in one, and in another having to crop dust. Maybe a little different, but it feels different.
There are three other modes besides the main story mode. Free Flight is just what it sounds, although there are items to be picked up that unlock more features in a gallery. The Balloon Pop mode is a fun race to try to get a high score. The Rally Mode is the race mode of the game, and is actually quite challenging to pull first place. Although a little similar, each is very distinct. My least favorite was, shockingly, the Free Flight mode. I just didn’t know what to do after collecting some puzzle pieces, so I exited out.
Conclusion
It’s widely known that movie based video games do not have a good reputation. I had that thought going into playing this game. But, this was a lot better than I expected! It is one of the best movie video games I have ever played. It may be one of the most fun flying games I’ve ever played. Having modes and unlocks make for a fun replay value. There’s a lot to this game that it’s not mediocre. But, I wouldn’t say it’s a must have game. For a Disney fan, it may be something to pick up. I think it’s an easy game for young kids as well. Overall, a good pick for a Disney franchise game. But, for a general video game fan…well…I don’t know that it’s anything to add to your library. Still, it’s fun. Surprisingly fun! I didn’t think I would like it. And, it’s proving to be a game I’m thinking about playing again and again. I would give it about a 6.5 out of 10!
And, until next time, have a marvelous day!
