Code Lyoko: Quest for Infinity Review for the PlayStation Portable (PSP)

System: Wii, PS2, PSP	Review Rating Legend
Dev: Neko Entertainment	1.0 - 1.9 = Avoid	4.0 - 4.4 = Great
Pub: Game Factory	2.0 - 2.4 = Poor	4.5 - 4.9 = Must Buy
Release: July 15, 2008	2.5 - 2.9 = Average	5.0 = The Best
Players: 1	3.0 - 3.4 = Fair
ESRB Rating: Everyone 10+	3.5 - 3.9 = Good

The graphics continue this mediocre trend and look so-so. One redeeming quality comes in the form of the cutscenes, which look almost identical to the computer animated portions of the show. However, this positive facet is somewhat negated by extremely repetitious animation. Graphics on the PSP version look slightly crisper and better than on the PS2 version. However, the over-sized graphics on the PlayStation 2 just look stretched in comparison, and if you're looking at visuals alone, the PSP version is definitely the better buy.

Code Lyoko: Quest for Infinity screenshot

One big difference between the console version of the title and the handheld version is the loading times. While the PlayStation 2 version had its share of loading times, they were generally kept within a 4-6 second range. However, the PSP loading times border on the outrageous, and they can sometimes take upwards of 10 seconds. Sure, you get to look at a cute picture while the game loads, but you could also take a nap, which is a huge problem.

Another thing that Code Lyoko fans will appreciate is the sound in this title. All the characters are fully voiced both during cutscenes and gameplay, and there are no instances of unvoiced scrolling dialogue. Music seems like it is taken right from the series and is mostly inoffensive.

Controls in this title on both the PlayStation 2 and PSP are pretty much what you would expect and utilize the control stick for movement, the square button for weapon usage, the X button for jumping, and the shoulder buttons for aiming and cycling characters. Any special moves you might unlock will be triggered via the triangle button. The whole thing is very easy to learn, and aside from the initial lag that occurs between auto-aiming with L1 and firing a weapon, everything else here feels comfortable.

If I could say one thing about Code Lyoko: Quest for Infinity, it would be that it's has to be one of the most formulaic game I've ever seen. It is a very short mix of running, jumping, attacking, and nothing else. It gets points for being playable, but it still loses major points for being no fun, despite mechanically working well. The only real reason to play this game would be for the diehard Code Lyoko fan, and even then I would recommend the RPG-like Fall of X.A.N.A. for as a game to curb your Code Lyoko craving. Unless of course, you're into predictable gameplay, And then this one might be just the thing you need.

By Amanda L. Kondolojy
CCC Freelance Writer

RATING OUT OF 5

RATING DESCRIPTION

3.5

Graphics
Graphics look fine, and the animations are crisp and clean. The only complaint I have is the extreme repetition of said animations.

3.5

Control
Very basic controls are easy to learn, although the shooting system can take a little getting used to.

3.5

Music / Sound FX / Voice Acting
Voiceovers are done very well, and the level music is adequate.

2.7

Play Value
There's nothing beyond the first-player story mode and some tacked on bonus content, but for fans of the series that's probably all they need.

3.1

Overall Rating - Fair
Not an average. See Rating legend above for a final score breakdown.

Game Features:

Exciting Adventure: Players virtualize into battle against hordes of evil creatures and wield weapons and shields

Brain and Power: Many puzzles stand between our heroes, Lyoko and the fulfillment of their quest, so players must sharpen their wits as they hunt for the annihilation of X.A.N.A.

Explore the digital sea and fight your enemies aboard the Skid, the Lyoko Warrior's new vehicle created by Jeremy.