Cute game, great acting, subtle maturity
3 October 2003
Willy Beamish, a clever kid with a hectic life, goes through realistic circumstances. The voice acting is surprisingly good, like most Dynamix/Sierra videogames.

The game's basic interface is a point-and-click system. Most of the game's challenge comes from being at the right place, at the right time, with the right items. Sometimes a simple mistake; such as forgetting to, or not knowing to, do something early on in the game, can affect you later on. Walkthroughs are HIGHLY recommended for this game.

Although this game's a bit cartoony, it has several subtle references to things of a mature theme, providing fun for all ages.

Graphics: 10

Basic 2D cartoony graphics are beautifully illustrated, and present an atmosphere that fits the storyline; cute, hilarious, dramatic, sometimes scary!

Sound: 10

Nearly each place you visit provides a different tune, and the sound effects are as cartoony as the graphics.

Gameplay: 8.5

Chat with friends, try different items on different things, sometimes for no reason at all. Make decisions, try to keep the meter down (A thermometer, only popping up when something happens, measures Willy's behavior, in relation to his parents' reaction.) The loading times can be frustrating, namely if you're repeating a scene you are having trouble with. If the loading had been faster, it would've recieved a 9.5 easily.

Entertainment: 9.5 Since a lot of the game revolves around communication between characters, those not playing this game can enjoy the storyline. Decision-making, as well as practicing the "Nintari", are the main attractions here, and believe me, they are a lot more fun than they sound.

[Note that the graphics and sound are subject to difference, between the PC and Sega CD Versions. I rated this game from experience with the Sega-CD version.]

Also check out Sierra/Dynamics' Rise of the Dragon, if you're looking for a more mature, violent thrill.
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