It’s your turn to be judged by Randy Jackson, pictured, and Simon Cowell in Karaoke Revolution Presents: American Idol.
Karaoke Revolution Presents: American Idol
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: PlayStation 2
Rating: E – Everyone 10+
Game type: Simulation
*** 1/2
• What’s the premise?
You’ve laughed, you’ve cried, you’ve called in and voted — now it’s your turn to have Simon Cowell rip a strip off you for your lack of musical prowess. Step up to the microphone and belt out one of 40 hit songs (including You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling, What A Girl Wants and, yes, She Bangs) in order to impress Simon, Randy Jackson and some woman (apparently Paula Abdul doesn’t do video games) and be named the next American Idol.
• This game is most similar to…?
Singstar Rocks.
• Can I let my kid/kid brother play it?
Sure, as long as they can carry a tune. On second thought, it might be funnier if they can’t.
• One player or more?
Passing the mic, included with this game, is a great party pastime, while adding a second for duets takes it up a notch.
• The (not-so) secret to success is…?
Pick up that tune and carry it. Strangely, the game doesn’t seem to care if you flub the words of the songs as long as you’re in tune. Don’t believe me? You should have heard my lauded, yet expletive-laced, version of Every Rose Has Its Thorn.
• And in the end?
The karaoke part of this game is classic but just like on the show, hearing Simon’s responses, like “Horrendous, horrendous, horrendous. What were you thinking?” and “It was appalling — absolutely appalling.” when you stink it up makes things much more entertaining. This is a sure winner for any fan of the show.
• What’s the premise?
Get ready to feel the Madness as you take control of your favourite from dozens of NCAA schools and hit the hardcourt in pursuit of a U.S. national championship.
No NCAA basketball game has ever delivered the kind of graphics and atmosphere you’re going to find in the 360 version of March Madness 07.
NCAA March Madness 07
Publisher: EA Sports
Platforms: Xbox 360, PlayStation 2
Rating: E – Everyone
Game type: Sports
*** 1/2
• This game is most similar to…?
NBA Live 07, with school spirit.
• Can I let my kid/kid brother play it?
For sure. Maybe it’ll inspire them to get a scholarship.
• One player or more?
Sports games are always better with friends and MM07 is no exception.
• The (not-so) secret to success is…?
If you’re playing on the PS2, use the all-new “Go-To-Guy” feature to find the hot hand and help put the game away. For the 360, the new “Team Intensity” control allows you pump up your boys by firing up the crowd and getting your arena rocking.
• And in the end?
No NCAA hoops game has ever delivered the kind of graphics and atmosphere you’re going to find in the 360 version of MM07. The gameplay can be a bit glitchy (especially on defence) and the lack of player names is frustrating, but when your team goes on a run and the true-to-life crowd goes wild, you’ll forget all about it.
