Nintendo Wii Game Review: Epic Mickey

Disney's newest addition to the Nintendo Wii family of games is the recently released Epic Mickey. This cinematic adventure is sure to delight players of all ages as nostalgic imagery comes together with a creative concept and interesting game play. Take a ride through familiar animated territory as you trounce through each level with your magic paintbrush, fighting enemies and using your creative powers.

The game begins with a short vignette where the mischievous mouse is pulled into an alternate universe of forgotten Disney relics. In this place, called Wasteland, Mickey utilizes paint and paint thinner to either create or erase certain areas within each level. Paint in sections of a bridge to cross a wide ravine, or erase a section of wall in order to pass into the next room. You'll quickly learn how and when to use your paintbrush weapon as well as the simple mastery of skills like jumping.

A dark and gloomy atmosphere persist throughout most of the game, though in that colorful Disney way. The magic of the paintbrush allows glimpses into the once fantastical realms as Mickey bounds through the aged memories of past films. The nostalgia and history of Disney's ventures are abound as thematic elements and visual surprises from memorable moments of Mickey's animated history make up the overall feel of this exciting game.

With elements of a more lighthearted nature than the vast number of super-violent games that exist in the market, Disney and Nintendo aim to please with this visual feast. Instead of outright killing enemies you can convert them into kindhearted creatures. Even stun and distract opponents with televisions or use the classic anvil to stop them in their tracks. Game elements, like the pocket watch that slows down time, add another level of contemporary game play to what focuses a lot on nostalgic imagery.

Overall the concept is unique and the game play sustains interest. A more subdued approach to the usual violent fare, the paintbrush concept works well and becomes as much a creative game tool as a weapon of defense. The beautifully animated world, creative gaming and simple controls will help make this a kid favorite. The well-conceptualized environment and well-utilized nostalgic references will keep adults entranced as well.