System: Wii
Dev: Suzak
Pub: Nintendo
Release: March 5, 2007
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: Everyone 10+
Review by Maria Montoro

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Review Rating Legend
1.0 - 1.9 = Avoid
2.0 - 2.4 = Poor
2.5 - 2.9 = Average
3.0 - 3.4 = Fair
3.5 - 3.9 = Good
4.0 - 4.4 = Great
4.5 - 4.9 = Must Buy
5.0 = The Best

The graphics are not a step-up from previous Wario games, but it's still a cute game. The environments within each level look similar and rather repetitive, but at least they're colorful; I wouldn't say there's much detail but each stage presents a different scenario so once you beat the level you'll move into a different scene. The game shows some cute animations and there's a good assortment of enemies, although their moves are limited to just a couple: walking around or attacking you. The graphics of the mini-games consist of a couple of sprites thrown here and there with a plain background; nothing too exciting.

Music and sound effects are also redundant and most of the sound effects we've already heard in other Nintendo games; I guess they have their own sound library and that's mostly what they use. Having to listen to a continuous beeping sound while the text displays on the screen is extremely annoying, I wish video game developers stopped this practice. They should either add voiceover work, or not have any sounds at all, so we can read peacefully! The background music sounds familiar, it's similar to other Wario games, and it's good enough to keep you involved in the game, but the beeping is nothing but a nuisance. I can hear some Italian influence in the soundtrack and the welcome screen shows what looks like a little Italian town, so Wario remains true to his roots.

The game doesn't really offer any bonus features so, basically, when the game is over, it's over. The eight minigames are not a good reason to continue playing the game and there's a catalog on the main menu that allows you to repeat each level to try to beat your records, which are displayed on the log. But, is it really worth going through the puzzles all over again? You can also see the enemies you've encountered and the treasure objects you achieved. No online capabilities were developed for this game, and they probably weren't necessary anyway, as this is a one-time deal.

If you liked the previous Wario Land games you might enjoy this one as well, but don't go out and buy it with high expectations. Just think of it as a new challenging adventure with one your favorite characters and new "stylus skills" added. Wario: Master of Disguise is not a game for everybody but it's been made with some love and fans of the previous games should enjoy it. However, this time maybe more than ever, the decision is yours.

By Maria Montoro
CCC Co-Site Director

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