"Simple controls, Simple gameplay, Simply addicting"

A game's mechanics may be described as a given game's level structure, gameplay concepts, control scheme, and overall feel from the experience. Game mechanics can be as complicated in controlling a monstrous mech using a three-foot wide, forty-button behemoth of a controller, as is the case of Steel Battalion, or it can be moving a paddle back and forth, as in Pong. These are vast extremes, yes, but it is rare to see simplicity in the games of today.

I believe that part of the heat of the oncoming console generations is that developers are trying to pin-point exactly what gamers want. Nintendo believes that games should strive for simplicity in controls and concepts, while rivalling companies believe gamers want much more in their game experiences, Do players want more controller functions, more missions, more characters, more multiplayer mayhem, more value for their dollar? Would they rather have a simple, effective, yet wholly satisfying console, whose system and games are without so many bells and whistles? It can be argued that some games are needlessly complicated. Mapping up to fifteen functions on a standard current-gen controller can be a hassle for developers and gamers alike.

I believe the Monkey Ball series exists not just for general enjoyment, but also for the conservative gamer who wants an arcade-style experience, without too many complications in terms control and mechanics. I do not believe that the Monkey Ball series is overly simplistic, or a bad series per se. Those seeking a complicated button-mashing game need not apply; this is for arcade gaming purists and those striving for simplicity in games.

Developed by third-party developers Sega and Amusement Vision, Super Monkey Ball 2 went to Sony's Playstation 2 and the Nintendo Gamecube in 2002. There are not only hundreds of levels to navigate, but there is also a bevy of multiplayer modes, some of which can even be constituted as their own games.

The easiest part of the game to describe would be the controls. Except in some of the mini-games, this game can be exclusively controlled with the analog stick. Granted, the "A" button can change the map size and perform certain functions in the mini-games, but the story mode can be completed simply by moving the analog stick around. No camera problems are present, so no separate stick for the camera is required.

Graphics in this game are very bright and colorful. Each environment comes alive with vibrant banana yellows, tree greens, sky blues, and so on. While the graphical presentation may turn off certain gamers because of its childlike visuals, there is a lot of depth beyond the superficial surface.

This game may be considered monotonous and overly simplistic, but arcade gaming purists will find this one to be a gem. Depends on the game player, I suppose.

The majority of the gameplay involves selecting one of four monkeys and entering stages which gradually ramp up in difficulty. The goal of each stage is always to get to the exit, but there are various obstacles in the way. Platforms move, scale, and rotate. There are switches which control some platforms' movements. Teleporters, wind gusts, gravity changes, and booby traps are not unfair game in Super Monkey Ball 2. Along the way in each stage, the monkeys can collect bananas, one hundred of which earn something special.

There are various modes in Super Monkey Ball 2, but of course, only the ones of interests will be highlighted in the review, for convenience's sake. There is a "Story Mode", which involves a family of monkeys and their plans to stop a diabolical mad scientist named Dr. Bad-Boon from stealing all the bananas in the world. The plot is rather inconsequential, however. The story is rather ridiculous, and the game engine cutscenes will accentuate this bizarre adventure. Ten differently-themed worlds with ten stages apiece are to be beaten, but the stages in each world can be played through and tried in any order.

These stages themselves can become extraordinarily difficult. The game ramps up its difficulty curve very gradually, but it can still blindside players with its tougher stages later on. However, once a stage is beaten, it can be accessed again in a different mode. There is also a fast and furious "Arcade Mode" who simply want a barrage of well-designed and treacherous maps.

Along with the standard "Story Mode", there is also an excellent multiplayer mode for up to four players. Participants can either go through the "Story Mode" cooperatively or complete its stages competitively in an elimination-style match. Along with the stages, players can do a wide variety of mini-games, which are unlocked by earning points in the "Story Mode".

These mini-games are each gems, but some of my personal favorites include "Monkey Tennis", "Monkey Fight", and "Monkey Target". "Monkey Tennis" involves, well, I'm sure that can be determined. "Monkey Fight" is a very quick and twitchy elimination bout where the Monkey Balls are equipped with boxing gloves. The last one to be on the board is the winner. "Monkey Target" involves flying over a target, Pilotwings-style, and landing on the part of the target which garners the most points.

Along with the other mini-games in the set, each mini-game is specialized with its own wide set of options and setting. Teams can be arranged, round numbers can be given, time limits are in place, item selection can be changed, and so on.

Younger players may be more likely to be drawn in initially, but those who believe that games are becoming entirely too complicated may find a safe haven in the Monkey Ball series. The graphics are good, the replay value is immense, and the gameplay is really quite remarkable. Happily, there is still room in the market for simplicity.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 11/08/05, Updated 12/01/05