The Legendary Starfy

Even with it's charm, Starfy's biggest downfall lies in the story and simplistic gameplay

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Starfy is finally making his highly anticipated English-language debut on with The Legendary Starfy for the Nintendo DS.

Pros

  • Colourful, fun, cute, tonnes of unlockable content, multi-player boss battles

Cons

  • Gameplay is far too easy and won't present players with much of a challenge

Bottom Line

For those looking to fill the void for a zany platformer, Starfy is your starfish. There is enough content to keep gamers satisfied for quite some time. Still, if your looking for a true challenge, I'd suggest passing this one over.

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Under The Sea

A platformer that's heavily influenced by such classics as Super Mario Bros. and Kirby, Starfy also pulls inspiration from a variety of classic games. However, what is strictly unique to Starfy is the ever-present aquatic theme matched with the game's zany attitude, often brought to life in part by the game's vibrant animations and colourful cast of characters. The game is largely focused on collecting small treasures that are used to accessorise the 3D model of Starfy in the start screen — which really serves no other purpose than simply being adorable.

Starfy's controls are very basic for a platformer, often adjusting to the surrounding environment. While on land Starfy handles a bit more stiffly than he does underwater, which is perfectly fitting. When out of water you can dash and use your star spin ability to take out enemies. Be careful with how you use your Star Spin, though, as if it's executing it too frequently will cause Starfy to get dizzy, temporarily immobilising you. Puzzles are relatively easy, and usually require nothing more than simple puzzles like shifting boulders around in order to proceed.

As the game progresses different in-level actions surface, offering up a multitude of aquatic abilities. Starfy will also gain the power of transformation when merged with his little rabbit buddy, and can even earn specific upgrades such as fireballs. The depth of the game really shines through in the amount of content. There are a number of secret levels per world as well as multiple side quests, mini games, and scavenger hunts to pack this game full. Collectibles and trinkets can be purchased with pearls collected in-game, all of which allow for many hours of substance. It can all be a bit disorganised at times, but it's still good game design.

Hidden Plunder

The graphics and music are colourful and charming. The characters populating the world are all oddballs, and provide many humorous conversations. Even with it's charm, Starfy's biggest downfall lies in the story and simplistic gameplay. It's obvious that Starfy is aimed at a younger audience, but it's almost simple to a fault, as the story is a bit juvenile even by family standards and the gameplay is far too easy for even slightly experienced players. With all of it's hand-holding, The Legendary Starfy feels more like a "my first platformer" title than a full-on franchise.

For those looking to fill the void for a zany platformer, Starfy is your starfish. There is enough content to keep gamers satisfied for quite some time. Still, if your looking for a true challenge, I'd suggest passing this one over.

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