Wario Land: Shake It!, also known as Wario Land: The Shake Dimension, is a throwback to the classic side-scrolling adventure games of the past. Developed by Good-Feel and published by Nintendo, this game is a must-play for retro gaming enthusiasts looking for a nostalgic experience.
As you step into the smelly and bad-mannered shoes of Wario, Mario's alter ego, you'll find yourself navigating through a series of lively side-scrolling stages. One of the standout features of Shake It! is its unique control scheme. By holding the Wii Remote controller sideways like an old-school controller, players can easily run, jump, and smash their way through the game.
But what sets Shake It! apart from other side-scrollers is the innovative use of the Wii Remote's motion-sensing capabilities. Players can shake the remote to help Wario defeat his enemies, empty bags of treasure, or even cause earthquakes. This added layer of interactivity adds an exciting element to the gameplay, making each action-packed moment feel even more engaging.
The game's level design is a true testament to its retro roots. With numerous stages to explore, each offering multiple missions, players will find themselves constantly drawn back in to unlock everything, collect more coins, and improve their best times. This level of replayability is a testament to the game's commitment to providing a satisfying and immersive experience for players.
However, while Wario Land: Shake It! captures the essence of classic side-scrolling adventures, it falls short in some areas. The game can feel repetitive at times, with some stages blending together and lacking the variety that gamers may expect. Additionally, the controls, while intuitive for the most part, can occasionally feel imprecise or unresponsive, leading to frustration during more challenging moments.
In terms of visual design, Shake It! exudes the charm and whimsy reminiscent of classic games. The hand-drawn art style is a delightful throwback to the 16-bit era, and the colorful environments and character designs are a joy to behold. The soundtrack also adds to the nostalgic atmosphere, with catchy tunes that transport players back to the golden age of gaming.
Overall, Wario Land: Shake It! is a mixed bag. While it successfully captures the essence of retro gaming with its charming visuals, engaging gameplay, and nostalgic appeal, it falls short in some areas. The repetitive nature of some stages and occasional control issues prevent it from reaching the heights of classic side-scrollers. However, for dedicated retro gaming enthusiasts, Shake It! can still provide an enjoyable trip down memory lane.
