Video Gamer is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Prices subject to change. Learn more
Game manager Adrian Lacey answers some early questions on Ubisoft’s upcoming Rayman Raving Rabbids TV Party for Wii.
1. What is the story of the RRR TV party?
Adrian Lacey: The Rabbids have invaded the world, and now…your T.V. screens! They need your help to disrupt our daily diet of TV delicacies and drive Rayman crazy! That’s right! The Rabbids have taken over the tube and show up to bring down the house on every show you can imagine! Ads, music, series, movies! Whatever strikes a Rabbid’s Raving fancy! In Story Mode you’ll play through a week’s worth of television; each day brings new and crazier challenges combining skill and insane movements in a compilation of mini games.
2. This is the third in the Rayman Party game series, what’s different about this one?
AL: In the first opus, Rayman fought the Rabbids invasion. Although multiplayer was a part of the game, we didn’t push it as much as we wanted. In Raving Rabbids 2, the majority of the games were playable by up to 4 players simultaneously. We really focused on the multiplayer experience, getting players to push and shove each other both on and off screen. With TV party, we go back to the roots of creating a showcase title for Wii controllers, and with the arrival of the balance board we wanted to take this to a new level. So basically, more moves, more players, more depth and the use of the new balance board!
3. With the hype around the Wii Fit, is there any physical benefit?
AL: There are undoubtedly some physical benefits to using the controllers and “active” gaming designs are contributing to this Even if our game is about the fun first, you’re likely to break a sweat, since to progress in the game you need both skill and a certain level of endurance. The Balance Board has opened up loads of new possibilities… But we all know that Rabbid-style is more about “show” than physical prowess…in fact, this may be the first game you’ll ever be able to play with your buttocks!
4. The theme is the TV what’s all that about?
AL: Basically, you’ll play along with the Raving Rabbids and cause mayhem on the tube, showing up on various TV shows ranging from Music TV to Movies… The Rabbids have infiltrated everything from our favourite Soaps and Series to Xtreme sports; and they even show up mocking our beloved ads!!
5. How does Multiplayer work?
AL: There are a variety ways of playing with family and friends. You can play many games with up to 4 players simultaneously. We have also a number of turn-based games that will allow you to pass the wii mote. We have developed games that combine the use of the all-new balance board with the wiimote, so that friends can help or hinder the Balance Board player. We have also introduced a Party mode which allows up to 8 players to play on a turn-based method as well as sabotaging your opponents.
6. Will there be any online features?
AL: Yes, you can customize your Rabbid with ridiculous outfits; but since he can’t sit still for three seconds, you’ll need to smack him around a bit and snap a photo in order to capture the moment. You can then send and post your photos online to share, and compete for the best shots via an online scoreboard.
7. Which is the worst aspect of the other RRRs that you have been able to address and fix in this sequel?
AL: We have really worked on the accessibility and depth of level design. The fact that the Wii has opened a gateway to new types of players means we have to have a game that is easy to get into, but still requires skill to master. For this we have included a number of games that have real progression and allow the more hardcore gamers to exploit the controls fully.
