Magic Pengel: The Quest for Color

"A refreshing breath in the "monster raising sim" genre"

Most people, unless they have been locked in a closet with no access to any type of media have heard of pokemon and its innumerous rip-offs. Magic Pengel however offers a refreshing breath of much needed originality to this genre. It offers you the chance to create your own characters which play a vital role in the plot, offering an unrivaled level of personalization. You take the role of a \'\'doodler\'\' who can create pokemon-like beasties with the power of a \'\'pengel\'\' (pen angel) who must bring peace to a world torn by a corrupt government.

Story: 8/10

The story could easily be called epic, save the fact that the word \'\'doodle\'\' is used more than I have ever heard it. The characters are for the most part likeable. The ending was also extremely well done. There is also something satisfying about gaining the about watching your doodles grow from freekish blobs to monsters that beat out any pokemon-type mass produced creatures.

Gameplay: 7/10

I was torn for this section...the actual process of drawing your doodles is flawless, it is easy to do any very friendly to people who are just starting off with it. Unfortunately the battling system is nothing more than a game of \'\'rock-paper-scissors\'\', which gets a little old after the novelty of seeing your doodles animated. Another flaw is the save system which provides only one save point.

Visuals: 10/10

This game is beautiful to look at, and more than any other game resembles anime. The town is bustling with life and color. The doodles themselves are also cool to look at.

Sound: 9/10

This was another one that I was torn over. The sound affects and music are beautifully done and quirky...but the voice acting was...rather annoying...and if it was not for the wonderful music otherwise I would have muted the TV.

Replayability: 10/10

One of the best parts of this game, even after beating it is to create more doodles with the new options you gain after beating various parts of it, particularly if you are using the two player mode. It is amusing to see what other twisted minds can come up with...

Overall this game is denfinitely worth a look. Particularly if you are a fan of this genre. It is fairly cheap for a new PS2 game and a good way to waste a little time. It is one of the most quirky games I have ever played. This doodling game beats the corners of you algebra notes anyday.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 08/06/03