Super Monkey Ball Touch & Roll

"The monkeys are still rolling!"

Super Monkey Ball Touch & Roll is the best portable game in the series released so far. If your a fan of the series then read on...

Graphics
The graphics aren't the reason you are playing this game. If you've played the previous games on home consoles then don't expect better. As far as the graphics go seeing as how it's a portable system with only 64 bit graphics they are decent. They are a lot smoother than the one on the GBA.

Controls
The concept of using the stylus with the touch screen would seem to make this game a lot easier than the others, but it's not. The touch screen is actually very difficult to use unless you plan on spending an hour or 2 getting used to it. Once you get used to it though, it's actually very effective. It helps you a lot better on the more narrow paths. The good thing for people like me that don't prefer the stylus is that the d-pad can always be used as an escape. The d-pad is a little bit tougher than analog but for some people it's easier. Overall I'd say the controls aren't the best, but with a little bit of practice they'll be just fine.

Gameplay
Just like the other games the gameplay is very good! They added worlds to the game like they did with Super Monkey Ball 2. Each world has it's own unique theme along with music. As far as the stages go they are very fun. They aren't quite as challenging as the other games but still give you a decent challenge. The only problem I had with the stages was the fact that about 50% or more of the stages were from the original Super Monkey Ball just with a different theme. Some of them had a few extras, but most didn't. Don't get me wrong the stages from the original aren't bad. It's just that if you have a gamecube and Super Monkey Ball then the levels brought over from it are just toned down as far as graphics and a little bit harder to control rather than the analog stick. The new stages are fun and challenging. The good thing is, just like the others this game is very addictive.

Mini-Games
There isn't much to say about the mini games. They did add a couple new ones but unless you like using the stylus then these games aren't nearly as fun. Even with the stylus though you'll find yourself overwhelmed with boredom pretty quick unless your playing monkey golf. Monkey golf has 18 holes, all with their own creativity in them. It's always fun to play and try to beat your old or your friends best score. If you are buying this game because of the mini-games, don't! They aren't as good as the other games when it comes to that. I'd suggest waiting for Super Monkey Ball: Banana Blitz when it is released on the Wii seeing as how it's going to be primarily for mini-games rather than the challenge mode like the others.

When it comes down to it I would say this is a great addition to the series and definitely worth buying. If you didn't like the Super Monkey Ball on GBA like most, don't think this one will be a flop as well. Give it a chance, add this game to your collection!

Reviewer's Score: 7/10, Originally Posted: 05/03/06