by Craig Medlin

Created on: September 10, 2008   Last Updated: September 17, 2008

Archibald's Adventures is a game most likely designed for younger audiences. However, even older ones may find some adventure in this sure to be classic. The story places you in the shoes of Archibald, a young kid who ends up skateboarding through an old scientist's junkyard and getting trapped in the basement. He learns that the scientist's computer has taken control and has to be manually rebooted before he and the scientist can escape. Archibald undertakes this task.

Gameplay 3/5

The gameplay is, for the most part, fun and intuitive. Variations along the way and an increasing difficulty level keep the player guessing and interested. Throughout the first level there are various kiosks that give you helpful hints on how to advance through the stage. I thought nothing of it, thinking that the first was more of a tutorial level. I soon learned however, that they are littered across the entire game space. This creates for a very hectic and mundane experience where one must be constantly told what to do. This takes away a great deal from the value of the gameplay experience.

Graphics 4/5

Visually the game is quite impressive. The story is told initially in a comic book style format. Then as the actual game proceeds, it is given a two dimensional platformer appearance. Animations prove interesting and detailed throughout the game. Different technologies that show up in the game are given there own style of animation and truly enrich the overall experience. The graphics are nothing shy of pristine and complement the gameplay nicely.

Music 4/5

The music in this title is right on target, providing entertainment value without taking away from the gameplay experience. The various sound effects can, at times, be a tad annoying but the same can be said of many platformer games. For the most part the sounds in this title are unique and provide an original experience throughout the game.

Creativity 4/5

Taking the platformer genre into a new direction, these developers give the audience a rich gaming experience that proves unique, challenging, and most importantly, fun. The innovations in this title are each original in their own right, many drawing some form of inspiration from other titles while driving home a pleasurable experience.

Overall 4/5

Archibald's Adventures delivers an absolutely incredible gaming experience to all age groups. Some may find it slightly repetitive but each new level presents itself in such a unique way, that one can not help but enjoy the game. A four, out of five.

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