Some gaming genres demand reinvention with every new addition (at least, every one worth playing), such as puzzle games, but others are often better served by sticking to the basics of play.
The platform genre, for instance, works perfectly well without too many clever quirks, relying instead on a refinement of its established gameplay mechanics and bolstered by great graphics and a decent storyline.
Which brings us to Asterix & Obelix Encounter Cleopatra, a game that follows this platformer principle to the letter, and provides a classic run and jump game that looks as good as it plays.
Play like an EgyptianJulius Caesar wants a new palace, and appoints Cleopatra to build it for him. Unfortunately, Egypt’s architects aren’t much good at anything other than pyramids (the roofs tend to cave in when they don’t go to a point, apparently) and Cleopatra’s chief architect decides to enlist the aid of two particularly heroic, legendary heroes of legend. And you know who that is.
Way across in Gaul, you take control of Asterix and Obelix as they set out on an epic mission to reach Egypt, fending off the Roman Empire as only they know how (Clouseau style) while navigating the difficult terrain. The game takes the form of a very traditional platformer, with casual fighting, jumping and basic puzzle solving aspects thrown in.
Proper platformingIt might not sound too inspiring, but the quality of the game’s production and execution - on every level - makes for a very invigorating experience. The graphics are beautifully lively and recognisable, while the level design ensures you never feel as though you’re repeating yourself.
A subtle twist to the gameplay keeps the action hot, too, as Obelix is brought in on occasion to help Asterix in unique, two-man puzzle solving tasks.
Asterix & Obelix Encounter Cleopatra does great justice to the classic comic characters, which in turn creates an absorbing and vitally entertaining game. Admittedly it doesn’t forge new gameplay ground, but it reminds us what’s great about a classic platformer when it’s done properly.Asterix & Obelix Encounter Cleopatra Review
Proof that the old gaming genres still have what it takes to compete with modern titles, and that classic characters like Asterix and Obelix are rife with gaming potential when the developer cares about them. A return to gaming roots that reminds us how quality games are made
Spanner Spencer
Yes. Spanner's his real name, and he's already heard that joke you just thought of. Although Spanner's not very good, he's quite fast, and that seems to be enough to keep him in a regular supply of free games and away from the depressing world of real work.