Perhaps the game’s greatest asset is its presentation. As you play through each level, you’ll gain DNA points based on a multiplier system. You can then spend those points in the laboratory to unlock a bunch of cool items. It’s the way in which it’s all doled out, however, that really adds to the game’s appeal.

You’ll first have to unlock DNA strands by playing through levels. You then purchase artwork and challenges with the points earned from gameplay. Those items are linked to additional strands, and you’ll need to earn medals within the challenges in order to unlock upgrades for your characters. The game gives you more than enough points per level to buy whatever you like, but you’ll still have to do well in challenges in order to get at everything the game has to offer. This is an especially cool system, since the challenges are generally made up of the best elements of various adventure levels.

Though the menu system is really slick and the overall presentation has a nice polish to it, the in-game graphics don’t do the greatest job of utilizing what power the Wii / PS2 has to offer. You’ll see plenty of shimmer and a bit of screen-tearing, as well as some seriously poor animation here and there. Environments are very low-poly, though character models exhibit a nice level of detail. None of this affects the gameplay, however, and when running through levels, Monsters vs. Aliens has a playful style that greatly matches the kid-friendly formula it’s obviously going for.

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Though the game’s visuals fall a bit short, the aural elements in Monsters vs. Aliens are tight and well-integrated. The voice acting is on par with the movie, and the music works as a great backdrop to the action. Certain lines are repeated when exploring the laboratory, but overall, the game’s presentation is impressive for any title, let alone a title based on a movie.

If you’ve got a youngster who really took a shine to the movie, then we wholeheartedly recommend this game as a way to extend the experience. It offers a unique perspective from what you’ll see in theaters, as well as a quality gaming package overall. The adventure is a bit short and the camera system is guilty of a few minor issues, but in terms of movie-to-video-game crossovers, Monsters vs. Aliens is a rare commodity in a sea of throwaway games churned out to accompany the latest movie sensation. The story mode and achievements are tied together in a very intelligent manner, and the level of challenge is almost pitch-perfect for budding gamers. Alternate paths through levels, as well as points goals – not to mention great level design – are ample incentive to replay missions.

By Tony Capri
CCC Freelance Writer