Game Review - Wizards of Waverly Place

When Disney releases a new game that’s based on a Disney Channel Original Series, and you’re a big fan of the show, you’re usually disappointed by some aspects of the game. Wizards of Waverly Place does not in any way fit into that category.

The Wizards of Waverly Place game follows a unique storyline about some magic havoc being caused around Waverly Place as well as in the magic world. You begin the game as Alex Russo but as the game progresses you can switch between Alex, Justin and Max Russo. Instead of trying to make a life like player of the cast the players have unique cartoon looks which is welcomed as the player is not distorted and pixilated and actually has a face, unlike in some games. The characters also have unlockable outfits that have been designed around promotional photoshoots and some episodes from the series.

The game is packed full of mini games which are included into the storyline. Mini games include zapping books, making subs for the Waverly sub station, Wizard ball, catapulting, potion making, locker sequences and others. Along with the many minigames you also can use "Magic Mode" to use simple spells on some objects. This is done by clicking on the "Magic Mode" button, touching an object and moving your stylus in the correct pattern as directed i.e. making a figure eight on the touch screen to "Undo Magic".

Many aspects of the series have been included in the game and the creators obviously did their research for the game. You can interact with characters from the first and second season including Jerry, Theresa, Harper, Dean and Gigi. A great induction in the game is the inclusion of Alex’s journal (as seen in the episode "Graphic Novel") which you can access and enter to play the catapult minigame.

The game’s visual design is great, the many minigames are entertaining and the use of "Magic Mode" is fun to use. The only criticism would be that minigames are not available to play on the main menu. Besides that small criticism, the game stands out from other video games based on a Disney Channel series.

Rating: 8/10