Pure Nintendo Review: LEGO Battles Ninjago
I had mixed feelings about LEGO Ninjago Battles. It has taken me this long to write this review because frankly I have no clue what to think about the game. On the one hand Ninjago Battles is a pretty simple and straight-forward RTS. So simple that it may become tedious and boring at times. On the other hand it is a decent RTS with the normal hilarious LEGO story and cut scenes.
Ninjago Battles is a a typical RTS game. Like every RTS you collect gold, minerals, or what ever you need to produce/create things. You build different structures, which Ninjago Battles only has a small handful. Then use these newly built structures to produce units and upgrade their defenses and attacks. Sounds like a normal RTS right…well it’s pretty much a typical RTS with LEGO’s.
One unique aspect to the RTS that Ninjago adds is the use of Ninja’s. Instead of having a variety of different units to choose from, you have a variety of Ninja’s. Each Ninja has different abilities and powers that must be upgraded by collecting those minerals. This adds an interesting dynamic to building your Ninja army. (Ninja Army sounds so cool) The Ninja’s powers correspond with different earthly elements; Red being Fire, Black being Earth, Blue being Water and White being Ice. Of course what is a Ninja team without a slightly crazy master who seems to be able to do just about anything.
Ninjago Battles really shines with the game’s multiplayer modes.The story is funny and witty at times but the missions are pretty repetitive and boring. Ninjago really strives with its DS wireless, single card, mode. The ability to challenge your friends to a Ninja battle on the go is a nice touch and plays really well. It is also nice to play against an opponent who has some common sense.
Even after getting my thoughts on paper I am still not sure what to think of LEGO Ninjago Battles. The game is an ok RTS, with a funny LEGO story. At times I found myself dragging my gamer will through a level and at other times I was giggling like a five year old at a cut scene or some funny situation. With all that said I found myself, at times, really enjoying LEGO Ninjago Battles. If you like RTS and LEGO games, Ninjago Battles is perfect for you. If you are a hardcore RTS fan you may want to stay away from this game.