Chronicles of Narnia the lion the witch and the wardrobe

SCORE: 80

C.S. Lewis is known far and wide for his insightful, and inspirational writings. Family Friendly Gaming has even had a piece on this hero of the faith. The console version of the Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe on the Playstation 2, Gamecube, Xbox, and Personal Computer is vastly different than the hand held versions. This version is more of a party hack and slash (in the vein of Gauntlet). Each of the different children have different skills, and are needed to be able to complete certain sections of the game. In later levels quickly swapping between children to complete complex tasks is quite common. This requires thinking at times, and it very welcome.

Graphically most levels are bright and colorful; remember part of the game is in the winter wonderland of Narnia before Aslan's return. The details are nicely done, especially the models of the children. Wholesome images are also used properly. This game is rated 'T' for the fantasy violence. Wolves, orcs, giants, and an assortment of other evil creatures must be done away with using the sword, dagger, or bow. Thankfully bodies vanish, and there was no blood that this reviewer noticed.

The sounds in this game are in a word - epic. The orchestra is awe inspiring throughout the entire game. There are also sounds of the enemies being dispatched, and of the swords clashing together. None of these were morbid however. This game includes footage from the film, and the sounds (along with the images) are clear as a bell.

There are a very nice amount of things to collect in this game. These items can be used to purchase special attacks, or to assist in a certain level (via calling animal aid). Levels can be replayed in order to reach perfection. There are also some levels that were so nicely done that this reviewer replayed them just to enjoy them again. This is a game that is worth your hard earned dollars. More than one person can also play at the same time.

The control respond exactly as they should. The level design in many areas is pure genius; like the level where the beaver must be defended from wolves so he can clear a path for the party. Dispatching with wolves has never been so much fun (please note wolves have always made me a little uneasy). Seeing Aslan in this game is a rare, and wonderous treat.

How family friendly is this game, after all you are talking about slicing and dicing animals (along with mythical characters)? This is not a game for kids. For teenagers, and adults who can discern from real violence, and fake violence this is a game that they can enjoy. If you have a problem with playing violent games, then please pass on this game immediately. If playing a violent game makes you more aggressive, then please also pass on this game. I have been a fan of the Chronicles of Narnia since I was a child. This game is a way for me to explore the lands of Narnia, and to interact with the creatures my imagination from the books. The books depict a war that was fought in order to free the people from an evil. It is also a way to tell the story of Christ's sacrifice for all of our sins, that people had not heard before.
- Paul

Graphics: 75%
Sound: 80%
Replay/Extras: 85%
Gameplay: 85%
Family Friendly Factor: 75%
System: Gamecube/PS2/PC/Xbox
Publisher: Buena Vista Games
Rating: 'T' for Teen
{Fantasy Violence}

Want more info on this product,
or the company that made this product?
Set web browser to:
Link

Got a question, comment,
or a concern regarding this
review?
Email them to:
pbury@familyfriendlygaming.com