Impulse Gamer


Marvel Super Hero Squad

Author: James Wright
Publisher: THQ
Machine: Nintendo Wii (EU Version)

Marvel Super Hero Squad

As the world of comicbook heroes become more and more popular in both the movies and video games, the Nintendo Wii sometimes misses out on these blockbuster games but fortunately the Marvel Super Hero Squad has flown onto this console as gamers control a variety of Marvel Universe comicbook character. From Iron Man to the Hulk, this game contains a variety popular super hero characters and of course super villains who generally, always manage to fail, thanks to the heroics of these men and women. However the twist to this game is that players can either be heroes or villains which does make for some fun gameplay, albeit more aimed at the younger market. In other words, old fuddy duddy gamers best stay clear of this kid's title!

The story of Marvel Super Hero Squad revolves around the heroes stopping Dr. Doom as his legion are after the hidden infinity fractals which are fragmented across the planet. By finding these fragments, it effects the bearer with super powers.

As the story has been targeted towards the younger gamer due to the interpretation of the characters as they are more instinctive then reactive, it's actually fun take on this comicbook world. With this in mind, the game doesn't attempt to be the next Batman Arkham Asylum but rather takes a different, less serious and light hearted approach to the world of Marvel comics, perhaps to a more simpler time. The game also accompanies you with another superhero as you the explore the gaming world and thankfully this can be interchanged with another player that does make for some fun times as for older gamers, the story does become a little blas. Not to be mistaken with Marvel Ultimate Alliance 2, Marvel Super Hero Squad still follows a similar vein as players control their superhero avatars as they use their superpowers to defeat an almost unending parade of enemies and in most instances, it's generally with your fists. Of course, smashing up hundreds of robot's is what superheroes are made for!

Marvel: Super Hero Squad

At its core, Marvel Super Hero Squad is a fighting game as gamers beat the absolute living daylights out of their enemies but because you're good and their bad, it's generally considered okay. But then again, this game allows you to experience the other side as well.

In terms to the control system of the game, it actually works quite well with wireless controllers of the Wiii and although the learning curve is low, the game is a fun button masher with superpowers thrown in for good measures. Control wise, you basically have have two buttons, A for close attacks (punches) and B for ranged attacks, however you can create some interesting combinations by combing them together.

Apart from the main adventure mode in the title, the game contains an almost Super Smash Bros. experience that allows you battle up to 3 players or AI controlled characters which is truly a Battle Royale. Like Mortal Kombat, it even includes a finishing move and the innovative control system of the Wii is actually taken into consideration for this mode of play. Needless to say, depending on which hero or villain you're fighting, it does take some skill to defeat more powerful characters, especially if you're limited but it's all part of the challenge.

Marvel: Super Hero Squad

Although only a set number of heroes are available during the start of the game, as you progress, additional characters will be available as they become unlocked. Being a comic geek to the Marvel Universe, there are some great surprises as to what characters were featured in this game, besides the more popular icons and does pay homage to the roots of the Marvel comicbooks.

Graphically, the title is visually a good looking game on the Nintendo Wii with well modeled characters that is oozing with Saturday cartoon fun and is reminiscent of the animation of the Avengers cartoon. Although the environments are well designed and there's some nice looking special effects in the game, one issue with the graphics is the camera angle that unfortunately has a mind of its own and does at times hamper with the gameplay. This becomes more of a problem when a second player joins you. If you can get yourself past this, then you'll probably enjoy this tale of heroes versus villains. There are even some interesting cutscenes to assist with the story of Marvel Super Hero Squad which helps break up the monotony of the gameplay. Add in some over the top voice acting and an almost rock like soundtrack, it nicely rounds out this title

In conclusion, Marvel Super Hero Squad is a fun kids' game that doesn't try to rewrite the genre. For publisher THQ, it marks an interesting attempt at a different type of market and we should thank them, because not all gamers are over twenty years old. It's cute, it's fun and it's clobbering time!

James Wright

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