MARIO STRIKERS CHARGED

Publisher: Nintendo
Developer: Next Level Games
Rated: E 10+
System: Nintendo Wii
Genre: Sports/Soccer
Players: 1 - 4 plus online multiplayer

Suggested Retail Price: $49.99
Release Date: August 2007
Review Date: August 2007

Review By Jeff McKinney, Electronic Gaming Editor

What It Is

Move over David Beckam, there’s a new champ on the soccer field and he is ready to play!

Mario Strikers Charged, the new soccer game for the Nintendo Wii, is an anything-goes soccer game, first launched on the Nintendo GameCube, which introduces an entirely new spin to the sport of soccer. Earthquakes, firestorms and electric shockwaves are just a few of the environmentally charged hazards in this ball-chasing battle royal. And, for the first time, players can compete online with other fans from coast to coast using the Nintendo WiFi Connection.

Why It’s Fun

Don’t be fooled by the fact that this is a game staring Nintendo’s cute and goofy characters. It’s
a challenge and that’s what makes it fun. Unlike most soccer games, not only do you have to contend with the basics of the game including passing, quickly switching from player to player, taking shots on the goal, and blocking shots headed for your own goal, you also have to be on
the lookout for your opponent’s Bob-ombs, hurtling spiked shells and rampaging Chain-Chomps.

Who’s Going To Love It

Nintendo fans will love seeing and playing some of their favorite Nintendo characters in a whole new way. Mario, Peach, Donkey Kong and the rest of the gang are here but they brought their game faces and extreme outfits to match.

This is also a great game for anyone who doesn’t normally like sports titles. At its core, Mario Strikers is a soccer game with all the fielding and goaling features of any other soccer title. However, all the power-ups, Super Abilities, and random mushrooms and banana peels are distinctly Nintendo and present a new twist to the game of soccer.

What To Be Aware Of

Each player will need a Wii-Remote and Nunchuk controller to play. You will need a high-speed Internet connection and have your Wii connected to the Internet to compete online.

As mentioned earlier, this is a challenging game so first-time players should consider starting with the tutorial.