Dave's Place The internet home of David Hinkle, a guy who plays way too many video games

Quick ‘n Dirty Review: Scribblenauts (DS)

Scribblenauts emerged from E3 with about as much hype as a non-Modern Warfare 2 game could possibly accrue. Now that it's finally in the hands of gamers, it seems some of that hype isn't really justified  -- personally, I think people are taking this all the wrong way. The game's impact is directly proportionate to how creative and imaginative you are as a human being. If you're willing to just go through the motions and come under par as much as you possible can on each stage, you're missing the point.

In Scribblenauts, you're thrust into a variety of different areas where the ultimate goal is to obtain a Starite, a star-like object that is undoubtedly of great importance. The levels are divided into two separate types: puzzle and action. In puzzle stages, you're charged with solving something (hydrate a guy in the desert), whereas the action stages are a bit more, uh, actiony (pick flowers for someone while dodging deadly creatures).  Each stage presents you with a par representing the number of items it should take you to safely complete the level.

For me, though, the game's true genius and value comes from trying to gain expert status on each stage. When going for expert, you replay a level three times and can't call upon the same item twice. It encourages variety and it also encourages you to think and not write "jetpack" or "wings" every time you need to reach a high place. This is where the game shines, because it's all about testing yourself to see what crazy, imaginative way you can solve the particular predicament you're in.

Highs

• Completely unique concept and gameplay
• Staggering lexicon of words and memes create an almost endless amount of experiences
• Wealth of content available, both in the included levels and the level editor

Lows

• Controls can be frustrating, especially when trying to attach things or grab smaller items
• Camera is a pain and almost seems like it has a mind of its own at times, reverting back to Maxwell after you've moved it to see something specific

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