Plot: What’s it about?
Max & The Magic Marker is unique game that was released on PC and Wii, but now given a DS release. The game tasks you to navigate levels via platforms of all kinds. That doesn’t sound so unique, right? But this game lets you make your own platforms, which is quite cool. The story follows young Max, who wants to track down a dragon he drew with his magic marker, before he knew how magic it was. Max uses his marker to make his way through each level, collecting enough ink to make sure his marker never runs dry at an inopportune moment. In addition to finding a path to the level’s exit, you can explore each stage to find collectibles that increase your score. Some of the collectibles can be downright tricky to nab, but the game’s sharp mechanics ensure you have all the tools you need to grab all the goodies. So hunt down the bonus items, clear a path to the level’s exit, then you’re one step closer to that pesky old dragon.
This game is an ideal fit for the DS, since drawing your own platforms and such works well with the stylus and touch screen. This is great news, since the game is so polished and made even better by the natural synergy with the DS’ tech. The process is so quick and simple with the stylus, Max & The Magic Marker is a pure delight. The game allows you to draw a lot more than platforms as well, so be prepared to get creative with your solutions. Being able to draw your own solutions is quite cool and reminds me of the similar process in Scribblenauts, which used words instead of visuals. You’re able to move through the levels at your own pace, slowing time when needed, so you’ll never be frustrated in that regard. As you progress you can unlock special bonus modes as well, which add some great replay value. Max & The Magic Marker is a perfect fit for the DS and anyone who enjoys creative, brisk games will find a lot to like here.
Video: How does it look?
The game has a whimsical, cartoon like visual design. Or kind of like a storybook come to life, either way the visuals are fun and quite cool. The overall look is on the simple side, but that isn’t a concern since the design elements are effective and the level layouts are well crafted. The graphics here won’t knock your socks off, but the visual design chosen is good and the style really fits the game’s tone.
Audio: How does it sound?
The music is light and brisk, which suits the game well. The tunes do seem to be short which results in some repetition, but such is often the case with game music. The sound effects have a basic, but passable presence. I wasn’t bowled over, but they weren’t bad either. So this leaves me to score the soundtrack as effective, but unremarkable.
Supplements: What are the extras?
N/A
