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You might have noticed that this review looks slightly different to other reviews on VideoGamer.com. That’s because we look at games clearly designed for younger gamers in a slightly different way to other games. We’ll endeavour to tell you just what you need to know in a clear and concise way so you’ll be confident it’s the right purchase for whatever your situation.
What is it?
Everyone knows about the Guinness Book of World Records, and the video game is essentially a way to virtually take part in record attempts that you’d never want to or be able to in real life. Whether it’s building the tallest building, jumping as high as possible on a BMX, popping 50 balloons in the fastest time possible or throwing a washing machine as far as you can, the records here are all pretty crazy and good fun.
Available on Nintendo DS and Wii, the two versions share the basic principle of breaking records, but each has its own unique set of events. Both games also support online record updating, so you can truly see if you’re the best in your region or even the world.
Complexity
We found the menu system in the games to be a little unintuitive, but other than that there’s nothing here that’s overly complicated. All the record events are explained in a simple manner and you never have to do much that’s too taxing – think Wii Remote waving and stylus scribbling. Younger kids might need some help getting their game to connect to the online leaderboards, but more or less everything else on offer could be played by anyone with a grasp of the Wii and DS controls.
Suitability
Both games are designed in a way to appeal to kids, with the visuals being quite cartooney in appearance. There’s also some limited character customisation and multiplayer modes. If multiplayer is important we’d recommend the Wii version over the DS because friends and family members can all play on the same console – the DS game requires multiple copies of the game for simultaneous play.
Production value
Although essentially a mini-game collection, Guinness World Records: The Videogame looks pretty good on the Wii and DS. Nothing here looks amazing, but the fun, cartoon style that’s been used fits the tone of the game perfectly. The fact that online leaderboards have been included should be applauded too, as many games made for kids simply don’t have as much effort put into them. The Wii game obviously looks better than its DS counterpart, but both represent the record breaking events in a fun way.
Anything for adults?
You’ll have no doubt played many mini-game collections already, but there’s something about competing for a world record that makes this quite addictive. Even simple events like the balloon popping can easily be played on repeat for half an hour or so, with that world record time tantalisingly close. Considering the amount of sub par rubbish that’s on both platforms, you won’t find it a chore to play this with younger family members should you get roped into a Wii or DS gaming session.
VideoGamer.com’s Verdict
With record breaking as the foundation and a strong selection of fun mini-games to play, a well as leaderboards and multiplayer games, Guinness World Records: The Videogame is an excellent party game. We can’t see many kids being disappointed if Santa Claus drops it down the chimney this Christmas.
