Over the Hedge Review - DS

Since no new kid’s movie can go without a proper video game offshoot, it’s no surprise that the game based on the latest, Over the Hedge, came out just in time to join the hit movie’s marketing parade. Admittedly, animation-based games have been getting better lately—Madagascar was a decent tie-in, and Over the Hedge is even better.

Beyond the Hedge

Like most movie-based games, Over the Hedge takes liberties when expanding on the original story enough to create a game of reasonable length. Through the over 30 levels, you’ll take the roles of Verne the turtle, RJ the raccoon, Hammy the hyperactive squirrel, and Stella the skunk as they try to complete missions and outwit the vindictive exterminator, homeowners, and even a cranky bear.

Most of the missions focus on gathering food, human toys, and keeping your buddies safe. After the first few levels, you’ll be able to select from available missions and choose your characters, and as you progress, mini-games will become available. RC racing, bumper carts, and a golf game are unlockable, and playable as both the single and multiplayer games.

The gameplay between the various characters doesn’t differ much, and they all have the same abilities. You’ll find all the familiar elements of a 3D platformer here—jumping and double jumping, a swinging attack, sneaking, and lots of running around gathering goodies while avoiding traps. What sets Over the Hedge apart, however, is the focus on teamwork. You’ll select a team of two animals before each mission, and can switch between them at any time. The two can even perform a team double attack by jumping on the other’s shoulders.

Smart Mammals

Normally, teammate AI is lacking in kid’s games (and most other games), so it’s more than a little surprising that Hedge’s AI is actually tolerable. Your partner will run after enemies, fight effectively, and negotiate most obstacles reasonably well. Their actions aren’t always flawless, of course, and there’s never any doubt that you’re doing most of the work, but kids in particular will enjoy having a friend along for the ride.

The developers wisely included a two-player cooperative mode as well, which alleviates any AI problems and is a commendable inclusion. A friend can join the main game at any time by plugging in a second controller.

For Kids Only

Over the Hedge is visually entertaining, though certainly not stunning. The animated characters are fun to watch, the woodland and suburban locales look suitably cartoonish, and the mix of familiar settings and over the top traps and puzzles makes a surprisingly appealing gaming landscape. The audio work is good overall, as well, although the lack of the fantastic voice cast from movie is somewhat disappointing. The soundtrack includes some amusing tunes, however.

There’s a lot to like in Over the Hedge. It’s filled with humorous characters and locations, and the gameplay manages to mix standard run, jump, and bash action with occasional stealth and even vehicle levels. The focus on team play gives the game a distinctive leg up, especially since you can play with a friend. There’s also a lot of levels to hop through, with enough diversity to keep most younger gamers occupied for a while.

That said, the game is really only going to appeal to young players. Experienced gamers will find the majority of the missions simplistic, and quickly blaze through the game. This isn’t a huge problem, since Over the Hedge obviously isn’t aimed at hardcore gamers. Thankfully, gaming parents certainly won’t be cringing in fear at the thought of playing the game with their kids.

Hedging for a Kid’s Game?

A solid movie tie-in, Over the Hedge brings younger gamers a nice mix of different play styles, fun team-based gameplay, and lots of missions. The game isn’t particularly original, creative, or inspired, but for fans of the movie and parents looking for an entertaining, if harmless division for their kids, this is a good choice.

Review By: Jason D'Aprile
Video Produced By: Adam Sessler