Disney Epic Mickey Review for Nintendo Wii (Wii)

System: Wii
Dev: Junction Point
Pub: Disney Interactive Studios
Release: November 30, 2010
Players: 1
Screen Resolution: 480p	Cartoon violence

The game also provides a collectible incentive for those who want to relive the game. The game awards collectible in-game pins for accomplishing various goals, and because a lot of the goals require taking different paths and being on opposite sides of the game's morality system, it is impossible to get them in a single playthrough. In addition to the collectible pins, there are also hidden video clips and concept art that die-hard fans will definitely want to unlock.

Disney Epic Mickey Screenshot

However, as I mentioned before, there are some issues that hold this game back from being the perfect homage to Disney's past. One of the big issues that you'll notice right away is the camera system, which frequently focuses on the wrong thing or won't let you swing it around so you get a clear view of your surroundings. This can be especially frustrating in platforming areas where you'll have to make precision jumps. If the angle is just slightly off, you'll find Mickey springing off in the wrong place, which can be especially frustrating if it ends in character death considering checkpoints are not exactly frequent.

Another issue that Disney Epic Mickey has is with the combat targeting system. Though targeting one or two enemies in the beginning is as easy as pointing and clicking, the game frequently targets the wrong things when there are multiple enemies around or there are obstacles in your way, which can often lead to wasted paint and/or thinner and frustrating boss battles.

Still despite these few gameplay issues, I found Epic Mickey to be a thoroughly enjoyable experience. The story is top-notch, and while the gameplay mechanics are simplistic on the surface, there is a surprising level of depth to the game. Unlocking movies, earning pins, and finding all the game's secret areas certainly pushes the game's play time into the 20+ hour region and provides plenty of incentive for replay. This game is a can't-miss title for Disney fans, and even if you aren't one, Epic Mickey is a solid title that has plenty of fun mechanics and a great (and surprisingly adult) story to tell.

By Amanda L. Kondolojy
CCC Senior Contributing Writer

RATING OUT OF 5

RATING DESCRIPTION

4.4

Graphics
The world of the wasteland is beautifully realized and animations are incredibly smooth. Camera troubles become an issue in later levels, however.

4.3

Control
Controls are intuitive and easy to use, but imprecise targeting hampers precision during combat sequences.

4.2

Music / Sound FX / Voice Acting
Background music is wonderful, but the lack of a voiceover is regrettable.

4.8

Play Value
The wasteland has plenty of secrets to uncover, and with a plethora of pins and other bonuses to unlock, replaying this game is a must for Disney fans.

4.4

Overall Rating - Great
Not an average. See Rating legend below for a final score breakdown.

Review Rating Legend
0.1 - 1.9 = Avoid	2.5 - 2.9 = Average	3.5 - 3.9 = Good	4.5 - 4.9 = Must Buy
2.0 - 2.4 = Poor	3.0 - 3.4 = Fair	4.0 - 4.4 = Great	5.0 = The Best

Game Features:

Use paint and paint thinner to change the world, interact with friends and enemies, and solve challenges.

Choose the best path to become an epic hero because "Playstyle Matters" and choices will change the outcome of the game.

Explore and solve challenges in an alternate Disney world ruled by Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, Walt Disney's first cartoon star.

Travel between lands in Wasteland through classic platforming levels inspired by animated films and shorts.

Experience an innovative mix of platforming, action-adventure, and light RPG elements.

Collect over seventy-five virtual Disney pins in the game by completing specific challenges and quests and discovering hidden collectibles.