Scribblenauts

I think this game is fun in the same way that damn blasted 20 questions device is fun - it is great to try and break the system. Initially Scribblenauts left me a a little underwhelmed, mainly because of the controls (although the more I play the more I realise that full DPad control of Maxwell would probably have borked the engine!).

However, today I just spent ages playing around on the menu screen and I there were plenty of moments that made me laugh aloud (scientist or Atheist -v- God is the old reliable, but conjuring meteors or such destructive powers are equally pleasant).

Game itself is a mixed bag. Some moments are inspired, and the fantastic thing is you're the one feeling inspired. It is the kind of game where using traditional logic (e.g. building ludicrously complex rope based devices) will only get you so far. It is so much easier just to make something bigger. The moment I realised wings would do the job of three ladders initially made me feel proud, but then an idiot for not realising it earlier! Puzzle levels are probably the most fun - generally quite easy, but always pleasant thinking up alternate solutions (had lots of fun with the trick or treat one - ghosts ftw!). Games have long thought me that all problems are needlessly complicated, but it is entirely satisfying to realise all that is needed to navigate a sick patient up a dangerous mountain is a helicopter and a rope.

Action ones are a bit more mixed I think. The need for more complex situations and set ups really shows up the weak controls IMO, and the unnecessary complications - in the most horrific and 'gamey' example I've come across so far, the unbreakable metal spikes - can be very frustrating. Still satisfying when you finish them, but the weaknesses do show up.

Probably the best database I've ever come across though, and definitely worth the 30 euro XtraVision and Smyths are charging for it!