The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian Review
7 out of 15
Prince Caspian faithfully mirrors the movie’s plot but mercifully omits the teenage angst.
Date: Friday, June 13, 2008
Author: Toni Dimayuga

It’s a bit jarring to watch live action footage of the actors, and then see their expressionless digital counterparts in a following cutscene. My biggest gripes however, are with the lighting and camera angles. Yes, night missions and dark corners are supposed to be poorly lit, but not to the point that you’re straining your eyes and having trouble finding doorways. After playing a whole level that takes place at night, I developed a slight headache. Compounding this issue is the unforgiving camera. Although you can slightly rotate it, it doesn’t help much.

Navigating the controls is an exercise in frustration. Certain steps are pointless. For example, opening a treasure chest is a two-step process: click on the circle button to grab onto it then repeatedly click on the X button to open. To use a grappling hook, press the circle button, then move the left thumbstick in a clockwise motion. I understand the attempt to make those actions more realistic, but it doesn't help immerse you in the game. Using the grappling hook was especially head-deskingly aggravating. Although a nice little icon appears where you’re supposed to use it, it’s misleading since you have to stand a few feet behind the icon, not directly underneath it.

Prince Caspian had the potential to be an enjoyable game that would even appeal to those who have never seen the film. The missions aren’t too repetitive and the battle levels are fun and exciting. It’s pretty cool to see dozens upon dozens of Narnians and Telmarines duking it out. However, there are just too many exasperating issues with controls and lighting that keep me from recommending it. If you want a great adventure game by Traveller’s Tales, try any of the Lego games. If you’re a fan of the Prince Caspian film, save your money and wait for the DVD/Blu-ray release. I’ll bet they’ll include the extra footage in there.

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