PokePark Wii: Pikachu's Adventure: a Very Good Game for Kids

Before we get into the review for PokePark Wii: Pikachu's Adventure we have to get two things out of the way. First this isn't the normal Pokemon game, you won't find any trainers or Pokeballs anywhere. Second this game is geared towards kids, so don't expect a complete in depth Pokemon game, for that you'll have to wait for Pokemon Black and Pokemon White to arrive in March 2011.

In PokePark Wii you play as Pikachu, a yellow electric type Pokemon, and you have to help save the Pokepark from being crushed. To do this Pikachu must collect the 14 scattered pieces of the Sky Prism. The pieces are held by various attraction attendants throughout the park. In order to get these pieces Pikachu must befriend the Pokemon in the park, 193 in all, and pass certain challenges. These challenges may involve battles, swimming, swinging on vines, running, or sliding. The challenges are normal mini game fare, nothing revolutionary here.

The game has decent graphics and the worlds are bright and colorful. Pikachu was an obvious choice as the game's hero, especially since kids seem to love him, while adult gamers are less fond of him. Mew, the pink catlike Pokemon, helps guide Pikachu through the adventure. There is some degree of difficulty to the game, but with a little bit of practice most young gamers will be able to get through the missions. The controls are simple enough that even beginners will be able to play along.

The most fun will be had exploring the park and making new friends. As an added bonus, once you befriend a Pokemon, you can use it at the attractions. Using different Pokemon will help you earn berries, which will help Pikachu level up and get ready for the bigger challenges ahead.

One drawback is that it is only a one player game, so brother or sister will have to wait patiently for their turn. With that said it is a good game for the young ones to learn about the various Pokemon and the game can be fun to just watch. The Pokemon in the game are engaging and the overall story is entertaining. The music in the game is actually pleasant enough that you don't find it annoying after playing for ten minutes.

Overall the game is a good title for the family, if you know what to expect going in. Hardcore Pokemon gamers will probably want to skip this title. Parents looking for a safe pleasant game for the youngsters can't go wrong with this selection. I give it 7.5 out of 10.

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