Wii Phineas and Ferb: Across the 2nd Dimension

The highly acclaimed Phineas and Ferb series finally had its first, full-length animated movie in Phineas and Ferb: Across the 2nd Dimension. Tying-in with this release is High Impact Games’ Wii video game of the same name. Phineas and Ferb: Across the 2nd Dimension is a brilliantly executed action-platformer that combines simple puzzle solving and witty storytelling to successfully capture the charm of the renowned Disney cartoon.

Phineas and Ferb: Across the 2nd Dimension for the Wii borrows heavily from the movie’s plotline. In the game, you play as either of the brothers and their gang of friends as they attempt to make their way home through multiple alternate dimensions after they accidentally get transported via the evil Dr. Doofenshmirtz’s otherdimensionator. This fanciful scenario leads to many hilarious possibilities all throughout the game.

The dimensions which players visit are strange, parallel worlds of the protagonists’ tri-state area. One world has gelatin goop all over the place while another is a throwback to the old monochromatic cartoon era. These worlds are visually pleasing and carefully crafted with extreme detail. Graphics-wise, the game is excellent, showing vivid and cartoony backdrops that are sure to please both kid and adult gamers. In addition, various cutscenes from the movie push the storyline along and provide brief moments of respite from the action.

The characters are voiced by their original actors, and the script is penned with the same clever wit that has won praise for the series. There are many adult-geared jokes thrown in through various in-game audio cutscenes, making sure that parents playing alongside their kids will have as much fun as their youngsters. The soundtrack also fits in well with the various levels, setting the mood just right for the game.

Gameplay-wise, Phineas and Ferb: Across the 2nd Dimension is a basic action-platformer with some leveling mechanisms thrown in. There are two characters onscreen at a time (either two human controlled players or one human and the very capable AI) and the objective is to get from one end of the level to the next. On the way are various obstacles which have to be jumped over or interacted with in simple-to-follow puzzle mechanics. Phineas and Ferb have various quirky weapons at their disposal, which can be upgraded by collecting items and parts. The more a certain weapon is used, the higher its level. When a weapon levels-up, more abilities can be unlocked.

Also littered across the levels are waves of colorful enemies that have to be blasted away. The targeting mechanism is pretty simple and most shots hone it on the enemy as long as the player’s character is facing in the general direction. Boss battles also make the game more enjoyable, and the opponents are always intimidating enough to draw a sense of satisfaction after defeating them.

The Phineas and Ferb: Across the 2nd Dimension Wii game will delight kids. It will also prepare them for more difficult video games since it incorporates shooter, platformer, puzzle, role-playing, weapons, and level-up elements. Phineas and Ferb: Across the 2nd Dimension sets the foundation for future games your kids may enjoy.

The major problem with the Wii Phineas and Ferb: Across the 2nd Dimension game is the difficulty level, which is way too easy for adult players. Granted, the game was made primarily for children, but even they may beat it within a couple of hours. The most fun can be gained by playing side-by-side with your kids via multiplayer co-op mode, and the experience is well worth the price even though it may be short-lived.

Phineas and Ferb: Across the 2nd Dimension can be played on the Wii using the standard Wii remote. It has single-player and multiplayer co-op mode.

Parents of kids who like Phineas and Ferb have little reason not to buy Phineas and Ferb: Across the 2nd Dimension for their cute, little tykes. It takes the heart and humor of the series and delivers it in stunning visuals and addictive gameplay. While the game may be too easy for most players, it shouldn’t be any less enjoyable. This is certainly one children’s game you should not miss out on.