GameSpot editors' review
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CNET editors' rating:
stars
Very good
Detailed editors' rating
- Reviewed on: 11/05/2008
- Released on: 10/28/2008
- Originally published on GameSpot: MySims Kingdom (Wii) Review
Last year, EA brought The Sims to the Wii and DS in the form of MySims, a cutesy take on the popular social life simulation. In an effort to make a more widely accessible game, EA removed much of The Sims' micromanagement and socialization features and made building the focus of MySims. If you enjoyed that game or you're just looking for a lighthearted adventure sprinkled with a few trademark Sims features, you'll have a good time with MySims Kingdom.
Unlike traditional The Sims games, MySims Kingdom has a story that ties everything together. Back in the day, the kingdom was populated by wandoliers--wand-wielding citizens whose job was to help those in need--but for some reason, they all retired and no one bothered to hire any more. With the kingdom in disrepair, King Roland decides to find a new wandolier (that would be you) and have him or her shape things up. While the overarching story in MySims Kingdom is about restoring peace and happiness to the kingdom, each island has its own story in which you play a part. These enjoyable ministories include helping a robot who wants to open a diner, a zombie looking to liven up his graveyard, and an outlaw trying to make a friend. Some stories are more entertaining than others, though even the mediocre ones are spiced up with some witty dialogue from your traveling companions.
Most tasks in MySims Kingdom require you to build or decorate things. You'll often need to use specific items or furniture from a themed set that can only be acquired by collecting essences. You gather essences by mining, fishing, treasure hunting, or simply plucking them from trees. Nearly every activity yields an abundance of essences, so finding what you need usually doesn't take longer than a few minutes, which is nice considering that item collection is such a large part of the game. There are, however, certain rare items that take longer to find, especially when you have to fish for them. Though the tedium does set in toward the end of the game--when you have to revisit some of the islands to move on--the fact that it doesn't get old until then is a credit to the game's quick and rewarding pace.
Once you've gathered the appropriate essences, you can start construction. Building tasks range from setting up houses to connecting gears and electric motors. The build mode is accessible and easy to use; pieces snap into place and then transparent outlines help you find the right placement. You're never asked to do anything too complicated, though you're given the freedom to make some elaborate designs if you want. Outside of the construction tasks, you'll also be asked to herd animals, socialize with people, and find hidden items. Socialization doesn't play as a big a part as it does in The Sims, which is good because the socialization minigame is nothing more than an exercise in trial and error. The tasks vary on each island, so you won't be doing the same things every time.
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Where to buy
MySims Kingdom (Wii):
$14.96 - $48.99
| store | price | in stock? | rating |
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$14.96 | Yes |
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$18.99 | No |
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VideoGameAll.com
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$48.99 | No |
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