A screenshot from the SHREK 2 video game.
© Activision

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SHREK 2

SHREK 2 is one of the most highly anticipated movies of the summer. After the original film, there were quite a few games based on the SHREK franchise that were absolutely awful. None of them were worth playing, and in some ways, the games tarnished the image of the franchise.

Now that TDK has had the license taken from its possession, veteran game publisher Activision has snared the reigns and turned it over to one of its development houses, Luxoflux. The result is a team-based platformer that will have gamers playing through the world of Shrek in a game similar to FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES.

The feel of the game (from camera perspective and action perspective) is much like

Shrek and his pals in the Spooky Forest.

© Activision

The game starts in Shrek's swamp, and puts gamers into the role of Shrek, Fiona, Donkey or The Gingerbread Man. Later in the game other characters join in like Little Red Riding Hood and Puss in Boots. Other levels include Jack and Jill's Farm, as well as Far Far Away.

Some of the levels are fairly linear adventure romps with different objectives to complete on the way. Others are mission-based levels similar to GRAND THEFT AUTO where different objectives can be taken as you please. There's a nice variety in the gameplay.

Also, each mission features "Hero Time" a section of the level that is essentially a mini-game. Some of these require timing button presses, or jumping from platform to platform (one very cool one takes play with Puss in Boots in front of a waterfall).

The gameplay is standard fare, with each character having a specialized move set, as well as special abilities. Some characters have cool special moves like Fiona's ability to slow down time; other have attacks that are stronger, and some characters can jump higher than their pals. There is quite a variety to the characters in the game.

One

Shrek and Donkey in their swamp (from the SHREK 2 video game.)

© Activision

The graphics are excellent and portray the look of the films perfectly. This helps to pull you right into the action and is pretty cool. There's also sound that seems right out of the film, and the character voices sound great.

After the dismal showings of the first SHREK games, gamers need to know that SHREK 2 is under new management, and that the game is actually going to be worthwhile. In fact, with the multiplayer elements, it's turning out quite well. Perfect for the gamer and his girlfriend, as mine was the one who absolutely insisted we completed the previewable build.

Gamers should keep an eye out for SHREK 2 when it releases this month.