ShareThis"Wii Sports Resort"
Platform: Wii
Genre: Sports
Publisher: Nintendo
ESRB Rating: E, for Everyone
Grade: 4.5 stars (out of 5)
Several months back when some old friends were in town, a group of us ended up kicking the kids off the Wii so the adults could play "Wii Sports" all afternoon. It was a comical moment when we realized that the kids were outside having fun while the adults were cooped up inside playing video games.
But to heck with feeling bad about ourselves.
With "Wii Sports Resort," we've got even more excuses to let the adults have all the fun. Yes, this game is perfect for gamers of any age or skill level, but there is nothing better than seeing grown men and women swordfight and water ski and much more.
"Resort" has about twice as many activities as the original "Wii Sports," but with a number of play modes within each sport, the possibilities and match-ups are greater. Table tennis is fantastic, while plenty of my Ohio friends will be thrilled to play Frisbee golf. Heck, there is even a fun Frisbee game of toss and catch, with a video dog that gives animal lovers something to enjoy.
"Resort" has a couple of downsides. One, you have to plunk down the money for the Wii MotionPlus controllers, because the games won't work without them. Two, the games are not that exciting when playing all by yourself. "Resort" is meant to be a party game, so make sure you have others to pal around with.
None of the games is terribly difficult to learn. The diverse offerings make it easy for players -- no matter their ages and gaming experience -- to find something to get a kick out of. "Wii Sports Resort" is a must-own. Don't hesitate to call up some friends to give it a go.
"G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra"
Platforms: Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Wii, PS2, PSP, DS
Genre: Action
Publisher: EA Games
ESRB Rating: T, for Teen
Grade: 0.5 stars
If knowing is half the battle, then gamers should know to avoid this game. One of the goofy, nostalgic PSAs after each "G.I. Joe" cartoon episode should focus on how bad this game is.
It's based on the 2009 movie. I've been rough on movie tie-in games over the year, but "G.I. Joe: The Rise of the Cobra" takes the cake.
Where to begin?
First of all, the gameplay makes little sense. You take up arms as any number of playable Joes, fighting against numerous Cobra forces. Second, these battles take way longer than they should, given that every enemy can be shot about 30 times before actually dying.
You can play cooperatively with someone, but why would you punish a friend? Instead, my buddy Kelly and I will check out the movie and laugh at the onscreen stupidity.
Kids, save your money. Don't buy this game.
(E-mail Chris Campbell at game_on_games(at)mac.com)
Game On
