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Where many licensed movie games usually falter on the Nintendo DS, Alice In Wonderland is fantastic and compelling from start to finish. Unlike the PC and Wii versions which are visually linked to the film, The DS version has a much quirkier minimalist art style that recalls games such as Okami, Patapon and The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass. The plot more or less follows the film's events, but in a looser and less wordy way. The dialog (what little there) is quite funny, but it's the solid gameplay will keep you totally engrossed. Developer Etranges Libellules (who also did the fun PC and Wii versions) has also done some innovative things with the gameplay, allowing the four characters who get to escort Alice through her journey through "Underland" some neat talents. While this could have been yet another generic platformer that would have sold based on the movie tie-in alone, what's here is a screen shifting, time bending, gravity defying slice of pure genius that's addictive right from the opening screen. As you guide Alice and her friends through the game, you'll find the controls intuitive and well-explained. Combat sections start out simple, but get tougher as you get closer to your goals. A moves list can be called up by pausing the game at any time, so those pesky Red Knights won't be pesky for too long. The entire game is controlled using the stylus and while some of the puzzles may stump you, it's going to be because you need to revisit areas once new characters join your party over the game being too difficult. Everything is laid out so that you won't blow through the game in one sitting. Some later areas will have you switching between the four characters in rapid succession to solve a tricky puzzle or two, but again, the game is never frustrating as long as you're paying attention to the symbols on screen. Boss fights can be challenging, but like the main quest, you won't be stopped for long if you think creatively. While it has some minor elements from the genre, I wouldn't call this a RPG at all. It's more of an adventure with light quest elements (like the Legend of Zelda games, but on a smaller scale). As great as the visuals are, the soundtrack is equally fantastic in bringing a nicely dreamy mood to the game. There aren't a lot of tracks, but everything fits and keeps things flowing. The pace of the game is intentionally slower than what you'd probably expect, but this is actually a good thing for younger or older gamers who want to hop in and play for a bit. Two profiles can be saved, so feel free to share the game with a sibling or parental unit, if you like. In addition to the main game, there's the Dgamer function that allows you to create an avatar, unlock in-game rewards and even gain bonus items from playing the game, VERY much like Xbox Live. I'm guessing we'll see this feature in other Disney DS/DSi games, so get used to it. You can also ignore the Dgamer stuff and just play the game, but some of the cool bonuses include costumes from the film you can dress up your avatar with. Overall, Alice in Wonderland is a great DS game that's one of the nicest handheld surprises of 2010. If you loved the film, this should be the perfect companion piece for your next road trip. Of course, you don't need to go on road trips to play great portable games, right?Read full review
One of the best games I've played. Love all the characters, love the graphics and very creative puzzles.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Great fun game
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Love the animation art work!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Game was as described, perfect condition! Thanks!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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