Animal Crossing: City Folk

"Best Animal Crossing yet!"

This game has been criticized by many; I have heard things like, "This game is a rip-off! The city means nothing, all they are doing is trying to make you think that there is more to the game because of the city." Well, let me just say something to you people out there who believe that - I have owned this game for three days, and I already love nearly every single aspect of it to pieces. There are so many things to do, you will never left bored with this one.

The city - 4 out of 5 ****
City life is wondrous this to the animals of City Folk; it's glamorus and sophisticated. Talk and socialize with the friendly animal pedestrians who wander mindlessly around a large wishing fountain. Here is a little more in depth info on to what I believe makes the city fantastic.

Crazy Redd's Shop
Crazy Redd is a wheel-n-deal scammer. He has higher prices than Nook selling his inventory and he is now to lazy to come to your town, you have to go to him. But the reason you keep coming back is because of his inventory. His prices may be a bit unfair, but you'll find hidden treasures a good amount of the time while your there. I know I did.

The Marquee
This was an addition to the game which quite shocked me to be honest. So far, I've only seen Dr. Shrunks shows, not Frillards, but they are kinda funny. Going to these shows have given me emotions, that I suppose I might end up using in Wi-Fi to show friends how I'm feeling at times. I believe they charge a tad much for a ticket though, but what can you do?

Happy Room Academy Head-Quarters
This is what I was hoping I'd get all along with the HRA. But I didn't expect Lyle... anyway, it always bothered me that I could never contact the HRA about anything, but now, Nintendo has made my mind assured that I can. I really like the model room idea to for it's uniqueness.

GracieGrace
Ah, the admirable Gracie has finally opened up a store. It took a might longer than I had thought it would; as a matter of fact, I thought Wild World would be the one to have it. The price tags on her items are a bit out of my league, but 'It's a small price to pay for quality!" I do like it though, because if you like the stuff, it drives you to work harder to get it.

The Auction House
I consider this to be a weak point for the city. If you don't have a Wi-Fi connection, you can kiss this goodbye. The auction house is probably the worst part of the game to me, but if Nintendo shows up with a fourth Animal Crossing, hopefully it will improve.

Kicks, the Shoe Shiner Skunk
Kicks is a skunk who will shine your shoes to a look or a color you are going for. I am kinda glad you can change up your shoes though, I think that is good if you want to make a fashion statement.

Shampoodle
Harriet the Poodle has some mad skizzles when it comes to beauty. Simply change your hair style or get a full on mii makeover for a mere 3000 bells. I also suggest this for when you want to be on the fashion scene.

Katrina, the Fourtune Teller
This is a rip-off, but it is soooooooo funny. Usually her fortunes do nothing for you except make you laugh. What you can expect here is a konk in the head and a bunch of jibberish. "...and remember that bad times are only times that are bad." Give me a break.

The city is a fun part of the game, though it has some flaws they need to work out. Otherwise I say, bombs away!

Graphics - 5 out of 5 *****
This is where the game shines. It may not have realistic graphics, but they are clean-cut and have a smooth round-looking appearence wih very few glitches. It is so distinguished and much better from the previous games. I don't have much more to say about this except that if you are a hardcore old-school gamer such as myself, you'll notice the graphics.

Music - 5 out of 5 *****
The game has always had an awsome variety when it comes to music, and I have always loved going out to listen to K.K. It isn't a necessity in the world of Animal Crossing: City Folk, but it sure is nice for anyone who likes sound.

Wi-Fi - 5 out of 5 *****
I have never experienced anything like the Wi-Fi in this game. It has been fun hanging with my friends without actually hanging with them. I don't know about you, but I think this game is so much better with Wi-Fi.

Your Town- 5 out of 5 *****
In your little suburb, you live with your animal friends who can range from girly girl squirrels to buff, self-centered penguins. This is where not much has changed, although you can play hide and seek with the locals, and they have added a new holiday entitled, "Bunny Day". This is where the Animal Crossing you have all come to know and love comes in.

Overall, this game deserves 2 thumbs up. It has a good plot, new features and a whole lot of fun. If you have never experienced Animal Crossing, now's your chance to get it while it's hot. You will be blown away by how much of an improvement it is compared to it's cousins. Try it out for yourself!

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 11/20/08

Game Release: Animal Crossing: City Folk (US, 11/16/08)