by Ben Silverman
Timed to release alongside the film, Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa isn't just a boring romp through the movie. Here are five reasons to visit the motherland:
1. It's made by the pros.
The next-gen console versions of Madagascar Escape 2 Africa are being handled by longtime game developer Toys For Bob, whom PC gamers know as the force behind the great Star Control games. They're also the ones responsible for the first Madagascar game, which received solid marks from game critics and fans alike.
2. It stars the stars.
If they're good enough for the big screen, they're good enough for the video game. Gamers will primarily play as the fearsome foursome -- Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Gloria the Hippo and Melman the Giraffe -- as they navigate Dreamworks' colorful version of the African plains.
3. Travel at your own pace.
Where most games based on films just offer a staid ride through the movie's biggest scenes, Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa lets players tackle the game's 12 kooky levels in any order they see fit. Younger players won't get stuck, and older players will appreciate the freedom.
4. It's not just a platformer.
Think you'll spend your time in Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa jumping over pits and bouncing on enemy heads? Try thinking outside the box a bit, because that's what the developers did. Each level is its own curious beast, featuring totally unique gameplay elements. Pilot a makeshift plane, drive off-road vehicles, balance on a giant boulder and boogie down in a volcano.
5. Fun for the whole pack.
New multiplayer tournament modes bring some mini-game madness to Madagascar. With ten games to choose from, there's bound to be a game the whole family can enjoy. Cure ailing patients in Melman's clinic? Dive for glory as Gloria? Become the best chess player on the savannah? The choice is yours.
Posted: 20 Oct 2008
