Publisher: Disney Interactive Studios

Developer: Disney Interactive Studios

Reviewed by: Michael Cohen

Phineas & Ferb, for those who don’t know, is a hugely popular Disney Channel cartoon about two brothers who spend their summer vacation building crazy contraptions and coming up with crazy schemes, all in a bid to ensure that every last ounce of their vacation is memorable. It’s a wonderful show with some really mature humour that kid and adult alike can enjoy together. This summer they released the first ever Phineas & Ferb movie, Across the 2nd Dimension, and of course, along with it a video game for multiple platforms.

I’m here to talk about my experience with the Nintendo DS port of the game, which as one might expect, is a watered down version of its console counterpart. At it’s heart, this game is a very basic platformer. You have the choice of controlling Phineas, his step-brother Ferb or their pet platypus, Perry (who also happens to be a secret agent who goes by the codename Agent P). Each character has a “unique” ability that allows you to solve certain puzzles and progress through the game. Only trouble is, they’re not that unique. Phineas has a softball shooting gun, Ferb has a lightning-ball shooting gun, and Agent P is equipped with his trademark grappling-gun. All of which pretty much do the same thing, kill the enemies in one hit. Every once in a while the platforming through guided levels breaks down into generic touch screen puzzles, but that’s to be expected at this point when it comes to a DS game.

Unfortunately, the thing that makes P&F so great is kind of lost in the experience of this game, and that’s the characters. Even though we’re treated to the show’s voice talents, the story is a very stripped version of the movie storyline, and leaves a lot to be desired.

Bonuses like unlockable costumes and upgradable weapons would be interesting if they actually enhanced gameplay, but they’re mostly just cosmetic. And when you’re a DS game, cosmetic changes aren’t really going to be noticed.

At the end of the day, this is a game for kids, and I think the majority of them will enjoy it, but for the more mature gamer, you might want to steer clear.