Product Overview
Kids help the zany Yakko, Wakko, and Dot of Animaniacs fame explore the Warner Bros. studio backlot of a movie set in this side-scrolling game. There are 11 different levels with bonus rooms to explore, and along the way, kids must search for hidden goodies (like awards, film cans, etc.). Dodging obstacles is fun, and avoiding Ralph and Dr. Scratchansniff and their clones is necessary, as kids direct the Animaniacs characters by walking, running, jumping, swinging, and more through the colorful 3D levels.
As with most platform games, the early levels are easier and are designed to get children accustomed to the controls, moves, and objects. As players advance, the levels get more challenging. There are sublevels, hidden rooms, and bonus rooms to be found in each level. The more goodies kids collect, the more points they attain, as well as the more exciting the reward animations are. The levels are replayable so that kids can achieve higher scores. The graphics are fantastic to look at. For example, one level -- the First Class Dining level -- has players directing Dot along gorgeous dining and buffet tables. She must even dodge some of the food (like the apple-spitting hog) as she makes her way through the level.
There are lots of options available. The game can be played using either the keyboard, a gamepad, or joystick. Players can select to play a single-player game, or a multi-player one which involves either working with a player taking turns locally, or competing against internet opponents for high scores. There are 3 difficulty levels to choose from, and high scores are kept.
The child testers had great fun with this game. The 8 year old particularly enjoyed it, and the 12 year old had fun too but found it a little repetitive for his liking. It is probably better for kids aged 7 to10 or 11.
Technically Speaking
Minimum requirements are Windows 95/98, a 166 Mhz processor, 32 Mb RAM, and 4X CD ROM; 2Mb PCI video adapter with Direct X compatible drivers, 16-bit Windows compatible sound card with Direct X compatible drivers.
Skills Covered
reflexes, hand-eye coordination.
Educational Value
This game is designed to be pure fun.
Entertainment Value
Although the arcade action is nothing really new, the "stars" of the game make it great fun! The graphics are superb, and most young Animaniacs fans will love to lead their favorite characters through the gorgeous environments.
Design
There are plenty of options available to players, including 3 difficulty levels and the ability to play the game with either the keyboard, a gamepad, or joystick (and each of these options is customizable as well).
Replayability
With 3 difficulty levels and plenty of action over 11 levels/environments, players have lots to do.
Dollar Value
At only $19.95 US suggested retail price, you will certainly get your money's worth.
Released: 1999
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