Game for the DS
Based very loosely on the series of books by L. Frank Baum, The Wizard of Oz: Beyond the Yellow Brick Road is a new release from X-Seed Games for the Nintendo DS. This release coincides with the 70th anniversary of the Wizard of Oz motion picture. For those of you not really familiar with the story of the Wizard of Oz, put simply it is story about a young girl is whisked away to a magical land by a tornado.
In this story, Dorothy lives with her dog, Toto in a small house that has been left to her by her parents. One day the house is destroyed by a tornado that carries Dorothy and Toto to Oz. She is contacted by the Wizard of Oz and told to come to the Emerald City. Along the way she meets up with Strawman, Lion, and Tin Man.
When they arrive, Oz tells them that there are four witches that oppose him; Spring, Summer, Autumn, and their mother. He wants Dorothy and Co go collect the witches “eggs” and therefore their magical power and bring them to him he will grant their wishes.
The story in the game is mostly original with similarities to both the books and the film. The story starts with the Wizard asking for help protecting his rule, from the witches. As the story progresses you learn that the witches are not exactly evil, they are just doing what they do because it is their legacy from their mother. They are witches because they learned witchcraft and really aren’t that devoted to dominating Oz. The story is enjoyable, albeit simplistic. The story is very easy for a young player to follow.
The controls of the game are quite easy as well. On the Nintendo DS, which is the game system for this game; the bottom screen is a virtual track ball, while the story plays out on the upper screen. The track ball is easy to use and quick to master. As you zip along on the famed Yellow Brick you meet both friends and foes that you can interact with as needed. You are also able to name the characters whatever you want, including the dog, which is great feature.
Battle system controls.
Trackball control
This game is fun and not very complicated. The Wizard of Oz: Beyond the Yellow Brick Road is rated E for everyone and may actually be too simplistic of a game for the advanced gamer (and probably is) but if you are a fan of the World of Oz, this is a fun jaunt over the rainbow. I do recommend this game for its playability and great graphics. The designs are quite different from the images most people are used to when they think of the Wizard of Oz and enhanced the enjoyment of the game. So follow the Yellow Brick Road down to your local game retailer or rental spot and pick up your copy today.
Thank you to Xseed Games for allowing us the opportunity to review this game.
For the Nintendo DS
Published by XSeed Games
Rated E
Released 2009
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