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
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 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?
A Top Trumps DS game based on the popular Doctor Who BBC series. Players begin with a deck of cards, each with individual statistics from characters within the Doctor Who universe, with the aim of winning all of their opponent’s cards. To do this players select a statistic which they believe will be higher than the equivalent statistic on their opponent’s card. If it is the player adds both cards to his or her deck and continues the process.
There’s a single-player mode against the computer, an adventure mode which sees you take control of the Doctor and span the galaxy unlocking new cards, as well as a number of mini-games and a wireless multiplayer mode which only requires one copy of the game.
Complexity
Top Trumps Doctor Who is extremely simple. Anyone who understands how Top Trumps works will be able to jump in and get playing instantly. Even if you don’t know how Top Trumps works it will only take a few minutes to learn the game. Developer Rockpool Games has added some extras to give the traditional Top Trumps gameplay some added variety, including a number of unlockable ability cards, selected at the start of a match, and individual character special abilities, available to use once the power bar has been filled. However, players looking to play a traditional game of Top Trumps can do so with the classic mode. Menus are easily navigable with the DS stylus and options are clearly visible.
Suitability
Top Trumps Doctor Who will be most suitable for young fans of the TV series. There’s no adult content or complexity, so younger gamers will have no problem getting the most out of the game, as long as they understand how Top Trumps works.
Production value
The game’s production value is slightly underwhelming. The graphics are basic and 2D. The game is based on the BBC cartoon series, but the images on the cards themselves are from real life pictures. Every conceivable Doctor Who character makes an appearance, from Doctor Who himself to the Daleks, so enthusiasts have plenty to play with. The statistics are accurate and well thought out too, which will help fans of the series get into the game even quicker.
Anything for adults?
If you’re a fan of the series the game has a surprising addictive quality which should keep fans of the series occupied on commutes for a decent length of time. The adventure mode comes into its own here. And because you only need one copy of the game to play multiplayer on two DSs wirelessly, there’s plenty of parent/aunt/uncle fun to be had with younger family members.
VideoGamer.com’s Verdict
The game might be basic in terms of graphics and presentation, and it might disappoint some fans by being based on the cartoon series and not the live action show, but Top Trumps Doctor Who is a recommended purchase for any young DS-owning Doctor Who fan.
