If you have children who are into video games (and let’s be honest, most are…) they’re probably quite excited about the recently released “Skylanders Giants” video game. This doesn’t necessarily mean that older gamers won’t or can’t enjoy this hack and slash title, only that it’s more or less designed for kids.
What makes this game (and starter pack) so special is that it incorporates a new type of interactivity; namely, the use of figurines in tandem with on-screen action. What does that mean? Well, all the kits / packs for “Skylanders Giants” come with a portal and some figurines, what’s interesting is that the portal itself functions as a means of dropping characters into the game itself. In other words, you actually control which character(s) you are using by placing them on the (included portal). While many might say that this is a simple marketing gimmick, for the young ones, it creates a much more magical experience.
The actual game itself is pretty much a toned-down RPG, complete with levelling-up and item collection to help you along your way. From a visual standpoint, the game is very colourful, engaging and fun; just the kind of thing that younger kids tend to really enjoy. The controls for SG are very simple as well, which greatly influences the learning curve, so to speak. In terms of gameplay, there are not many surprises; you are the hero, and you must traverse many different landscapes to undo the wrongs being perpetrated by the evil Kaos. If you’re looking to purchase the Starter Pack, here’s what’s included:
- Skylanders Giants Game
- Portal of power
- 3 Skylanders figures
- 1 character collector poster
- 3 sticker sheets with secret codes
- 3 trading cards
Needless to say, this is an excellent value for those who have children who love the franchise. Also, the inclusion of non-video game elements might actually help to entice your kids away from the TV for a change, perhaps engaging their reading skills (yes, this is a long shot, of course). However, the truly interesting part of this pack is the portal of power and its ability to instantly transport a physical character (in the form of a figurine) to a video screen. Simply put, it’s a fairly magical process which will add another layer of experience. Moreover, character stats and data are saved inside the figurines themselves, which would allow a youngster to both save their progress and also deploy their favourite character on a friend’s console.
Perhaps the only foreboding thing about the “Skylanders Giants” franchise is the costs associated with collecting all the characters (over 300 £, I’m told). However, the game itself is a solid buy for parents or even the young at heart, and the portal is a great development as far as interactivity is concerned.