Raskulls
Review
Mischievously good fun
by Chris Priestman
reviewed on X360
Say Cheese! (cntd)
The Mega Quest mode uses an overworld map layout to allow players to navigate the various stages building up to the tournament. Altogether there are three different worlds to be played with different Raskulls across several stages on each and more to unlock once a certain amount of stages have been successfully completed. The side-scrolling stages are more than just race modes this time around however; there are in fact 10 different types of stage altogether. These include destroying bombs in a time limit, navigating a level with a limited amount of zaps, carving designated shapes out of the blocks and navigating levels with unlimited Frenzy Mode.
Obviously there are more types and varieties to be discovered that means this mode is greatly varied with a mix of fast-paced racing and slower puzzle types. None of it is too hard apart from a few exceptions but the great thing is the ability to replay these levels to beat your previous scores as well as being able to compare each score with your mates. There is quite a lot of fun to be had here over and over again and I feel this is the one and only thing that is missing from the multiplayer modes. Each of the different level types is almost perfected with great level design and a chirpy presentation but only one person at a time can have a go. The perfect mechanics are set down that only need a slight adjustment for a brilliant co-operative experience, but it is not provided. Not like the multiplayer is not great fun as I have said already, but having puzzles to solve with a partner to provide a slower paced element would almost perfect what this game has to offer. It is not so much a criticism as much as a suggestion. After all, there is only so much racing you can do no matter how fun it is.
Release Your Rascal!
Raskulls makes for a brilliant single and multiplayer game that is great for almost everyone. It is quite a feat to have the potential to appeal to such a wide audience but it has been managed with subtle humour, a cartoon-like presentation, adorable characters and an addictive gaming experience. The game’s longevity will ultimately be found in its multiplayer, which has been designed with a marvellous simplicity that inevitably leads to a near-perfect experience. Like I said, this could have been enhanced further with the inclusion of the other level types present in the single player.
The game should be noted for its dedication to family fun that is hard to find nowadays especially for Xbox Live. Although there are many Arcade titles out there that offer great single player experiences, you will be hard pushed to find games that are perfect for families. Raskulls is the perfect solution to family get-togethers and slumber parties. Although the soundtrack to the game is fantastic, the more likely sounds players will be hearing whilst playing the game is that of roars of laughter. It’s time to delve out those extra controller pads! On the other hand, if you are a lonely soul this is still a great game with its single player and online multiplayer modes that will offer countless hours of fun. This is one of those games that are great to play casually as well as for several hours – you are going to revisit this game several times. Great fun, cheery presentation and a flawless design make Raskulls a must-buy for almost everyone.
9.4
fun score
Pros
Great competitive and casual fun that is spread over single and multiplayer game modes. Ideal as a family party game as well as entering serious competition with friends.
Cons
You are going to need an Internet connection or friends to fully enjoy the fun that can be had. Slight lack of variety in multiplayer modes.
