Disney Epic Mickey

$50, Wii

Teaches: logic, problem solving, Disney history

CTR Rating: 84%

CTR Review

See Epic Mickey 2. Just how "epic" is Disney Epic Mickey? "Not very," according to our testers, who have grown used to the idea of driving a famous avatar through progressively more challenging levels, smashing, collecting and watching amazing cut scenes before moving to another slightly harder level. Sound familiar? While this is certainly a well designed experience with plenty of problem solving opportunities, our testers agreed "epic" was a stretch. Borrowing from techniques pioneered in games like Super Mario Bros. and Kirby Epic Yarn (which is epic) this one player adventure breaks new ground in the way it uses classic Disney characters, who have never been inside a video game before. It contains plenty of opportunities for exploring and problem solving, but be warned that this game can be potentially frustrating after your health fails and you're sent back to the start of the level repeatedly. After an ornate introduction, you choose one of three game save slots, and become Mickey. Traditional weapons have been replaced with a paintbrush and paint thinner. The goal is to turn the world (Wasteland) back into a colorful, happy place. As you explore, you meet Oswald the Lucky Rabbit as you collect pins, film reels or medals. The game autosaves during each level, and there are multiple profiles, making it possible to jump in and out of the game.If you're up to the challenge, this is a great game to borrow as long as you have the time to put into it. If you're a Disney fan, you'll find the content to be an added bonus.