bit-tech Shopping: THQ SpongeBob SquarePants: The Battle for Bikini Bottom (GC)

Rating: 6

Time with product: 1 Years

Strengths: Good platformer for kids

Weaknesses: Not too deep or challenging

Summary: Of course, going in to a SpongeBob Squarepants video game, one wouldn't expect a stunning gameplay experience. However, this game manages to surprise you (a bit anyway) with its fairly good visuals and basic, fun, platformer play. Like any game of this type, it is basically a collect-a-thon where you go to different worlds (or different areas on the bottom of the ocean in this case) and try to collect different objects, beating various foes in the process. You can play as SpongeBob, Patrick, or Sandy and can switch between them (depending on the level) to perform different tasks. Different levels are unlocked once you find enough golden spatulas - thus using the tried and true Mario 64 star formula for advancing through the game. Overall while there is nothing to make this game stand out against the crowded shelves of kiddie games, it is a solid platformed with no major problems and any kid who likes Spongebob will probably have a blast with it.

Rating: 10

Time with product: 45 Days

Strengths: The game is visually appealing, challenging, develops eye-hand coordination and encourages problem solving.

Weaknesses: The only complaint about this I have is Mr. Krabs and Mermaidman have different voices and Spongebob acts stupid by trying to pass off stupid jokes and euphemisms but it's not a big deal.

Summary: This game is really good for spongebob fans. Lots of levels, cool moves and great story line. Challenging enough that adults and big kids don't get bored, but easy enough that younger kids don't get discouraged. Have fun playing this game, we loved it and you probably will love it too!!!

Rating: 8

Time with product: 3

Strengths: Great use of SpongeBob and friends, lots of levels and things to do.

Weaknesses: Nothing truly innovative. Repeating music and sounds might make adults go a little crazy.

Summary: This is the kind of game that you buy for your kids, but you play yourself, too. The best thing about the game is that it is a terrific use of the SpongeBob license. Everything looks and sounds great -- all of the characters look and sound and act like you would expect. The attention to detail and making it feel like the show is incredible.The game is not overly difficult, but young children may need help completing some areas or tasks. There's a fair amount of variety, and the different characters have their own abilities. Still, there's nothing too tough on the thumbs or the noggin.The only disappointing thing about the game is that it's a decent platform game, but nothing beyond it. If it weren't a SpongeBob game, it wouldn't have much appeal. It does have lots of appeal because of SpongeBob, and because of how well SpongeBob and friends have been realized.This game will immediately entrance SpongeBob fans. And, despite the combat helmet, it's not a particularly violent game -- no more than any other platformer. Worth it, if you or your kids are SpongeBob fans.

Rating: 6

Time with product:

Strengths: Great gameplay for the kids

Weaknesses: Graphics are poor

Summary: SpongeBob SquarePants: The Battle for Bikini Bottom is a fun game for kids that plays like an episode of the show. The game is great for younger kids that will keep them entertained. The length of the gameplay is pretty short but if you have young kids that are fans of SpongeBob, this is a good purchase.

Rating: 8

Time with product: 15 Days

Strengths: FUN!!!

Weaknesses: Graphics could be better!

Summary: Spongebob's advanture. (Actually there are two more roles that you can play, Patrick/Sandy) It is fun to play this game with kids who probably know more about the character than you. Beat the bad guys and collect the things that you need to complete the levels. Easy to play and recommand to rent it (or buy it when it's on sale).