Marvel: Ultimate Alliance

"Amazing, an RPG at a Nintendo launch? Is it good?"

Marvel: Ultimate Alliance is an Action-RPG created from the expansive Marvel universe and though it may not use the Wii in the most inventive way possible, it is still quite entertaining.

STORY:
This game is definitely the most faithful representation of the Marvel universe ever created. It presents itself it the Elder Scrolls style, in which more is learned about each and every character through talking to them and learning their unique back-stories. The character's histories are presented very faithfully and will remind Marvel fans of classic tales they have forgotten about or maybe even convince newcomers to start reading Marvel comics.

GAMEPLAY:
It is an Action-RPG and thus, involves two things: beating up lots of enemies and customizing characters similarly to a more traditional RPG. However, what sets this game apart from others is that it can't be completed by just mashing the A button. Enemies have various strengths and weaknesses that force the player to use different techniques to defeat them. One drawback to this though is that even though gestures with the wii-mote can be used to attack, the buttons are much more responsive so they're the ones that players will be using. One very cool use of the controller (though it does take some getting used to) is that the Nunchuck is used to control the camera, making up for the Wii's lack of another analog stick.

LASTING APPEAL:
The game is solid in this category. The main game takes about 35 hours for the main playthrough and is set for multiple playthroughs since the story varies based on the characters that the players control and the action they choose during the game. It also has a bonus comic mission for each character which are lots of fun.

All in all, Marvel: Ultimate Alliance is a solid game that all Wii owners should purchase. However, if you have multiple next-gen systems, the 360 version is the best because it has achievements and live service. Also, PS3 is barely better for on-line play. But, don't pick up the current-gen versions, as this game was made for next-gen systems and that is the way all gamers should experience it. Anyway, Wii owners should definitely pick this title up, it is a solid Action-RPG that shouldn't be missed.

Overall:8/10

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 03/26/07