Premise
Carnival Games isn’t out there to wow gamers with new, groundbreaking innovations, but rather provide a collection of fun minigames to enjoy with friends and family. The games boasts a commendable collection of 20 games with plenty of room for future downloadable content. There’s something for everyone in this collection, but ultimately I like to think this game’s entire presentation of games can be enjoyed by all, as long as they’re willing to look really silly along the way.
Gameplay
Like any Kinect game, the control is based on gestures and navigation with the body. Where this game excels, however, in comparison to other Kinect titles is that the user interface is very fluid, easy to use, and very responsive. Some titles, Game Party in Motion for example, offered wonderful minigames, but a clunky and non-responsive interface that turned players off from what was a great collection of events; these other publishers need to really study the execution of Carnival Games’ interface and take notes on how to perfectly harness the capabilities of the Kinect.
Interface aside, the core game itself handles just as well. Throughout all the events the game perfectly captured my exact movements, making it my duty to correct mis-movements rather than be able to blame unreliable motion capture. Many games allow you to take your time, like Crash Test Dummy, where you get three seconds to match a pose before you get launched through a wall, while other games like the roller coaster require reflexes a little faster and more finely tuned. The refreshing thing about this app is that every minigame plays differently, one game you’re throwing a dart, another you’re pumping air, another you’re dancing with a monkey or swatting a pig while you ride it… just play it, my description can not do this game justice.
Graphics
No Unreal engine here, folks. The graphics are deliberately cartoony and have a wonderful, bright and vibrant look about it. My baby nephew was watching us play and he was captivated by the visual appeal; this game is meant to be at a carnival and it beautifully captures the atmosphere and environment one would expect from one.
The minigames themselves almost all look like their midway counterparts, though some games like the roller coaster had some liberties taken with it, but there’s nothing wrong with going a little on the fantastical side sometimes.
Sound
Like the graphics, the audio presentation masterfully fits the desired result. The music is upbeat and chimey with slide-whistles, little organs and silly percussion. The music is very fun and it’s hard to not be smiling while listening to it unless you really make an effort not to smile, and let’s face it if you’re one of those types of people who make the effort not to smile then you wouldn’t be playing this game.
The host of the game also gives clear instructions on each activity while maintaining a voice that combines that of a carnival barker and Inspector Gadget; it’s goofy and exaggerated but not to the point of irritation. The game knows it’s made for full families, that includes children who may not be good readers yet, so having a through, fun but not annoying host verbally giving instructions was a very nice touch.
Final Thoughts
The game is just plain fun. If you’re in the market for a new Kinect game that’s not another sport compilation or dance party, then I really urge you to give this title a try; with very reliable controls, a fun presentation and even more fun collection of games, this is a new party game that will have everyone in stitches while providing a decent bit of exercise.
