FlingSmash is a Wii game that is pretty simple to control, requiring users to be able to flick the remote in order to hurl a ball-shaped character at blocks and objects onscreen. The game requires use of Nintendo’s Wii-Motion Plus controllers, and comes packaged with one Wii-Remote Plus, which is a new version of the Wii-mote that contains the Wii-Motion technology inside. If that sounded like a lot of jargon, don’t worry, just know that you can play the game with the controller that comes with it, and that if you’ve purchased other Nintendo games recently, you likely have another Wii-mote that will work.
The game is simple enough to play that even younger kids are able to have a high degree of success, although as the game progresses, there are some more precise flicks that are required. Additionally, all the game’s story and direction is written only, so kids who aren’t old enough to read will likely need a reader with them to understand what is going on.
The game pushes you constantly from right to left (or left to right if you choose the “left-handed option”), slowly scrolling the screen as you flick the ball off objects. In each level, in addition to building up points, you’ll need to collect at least 3 of the 5 coins that are scattered throughout the level. These coins unlock a Pearl at the end of each level, and when you collect three Pearls, you can then take on the “Boss” of the level, which is a giant creature that requires multiple attacks and strategy to defeat.
Each overall level of Flingsmash is slightly different as well, featuring different contraptions, or even different types of balls that you’ll need to flick around. For example, in one level, your ball is turned into metal, and it reacts as if it were heavier. In another, there are cannons throughout the level, and you’ll need to time your launches to make sure you can collect all the coins.
FlingSmash also features a great cooperative mode in which both players are onscreen, progressing through the level at the same time. Players share points, lives, coins – everything. It is truly a cooperative effort.
There is also a competition element of Flingsmash in the title’s mini-games. After playing through the regular levels, you’ll eventually unlock up to eight different mini-games you can play against one another, such as a version of “tennis” in which you battle to flick the ball past your opponent. Some of the mini-games are competitive, and some are cooperative.
FlingSmash is a very interesting Wii title that is designed to be played simply, but isn’t too simple to play. Younger kids will easily be able to play along, but they’ll likely need help from older players as the game progresses in order to perform some of the more precise flicks that are required to defeat the bosses. With its simple flick of the wrist gameplay motion, we definitely recommend FlingSmash for families looking for an easy-to-play game to enjoy together, with its great cooperative gameplay.
*FamilyFriendlyVideoGames.com Favorite* - This was one of our favorite family-friendly video games we saw at the E3 video game trade show in Los Angeles in June. Here's what we had to say about it then:
FlingSmash is a 2-player cooperative game from Nintendo that sort of reminds people of pinball. The object of the game is to help a ball through a slowly moving level, breaking down barriers, or navigating around objects. Each level requires you to collect three coins to progress to the next level.
Although no firm release date has been announced, the company has stated that FlingSmash will be avialable in Fall 2010.
What’s great about FlingSmash is that it is really simple to control. Basically all you need to do is be able to flick the Wii-mote, without even pushing any buttons. The makes the game very family friendly because it is highly accessible for kids and adults of all ages and skill levels.
FlingSmash seems like it will be a perfect game for families that are intimidated by having to remember which buttons to push. But just because FlingSmash is designed to be played simply, it doesn’t mean that FlingSmash is too simple to play. We’re really looking forward to gauging the level of difficulty and ease of play when FlingSmash comes out later this year.
INFORMATION FROM COMPANY FACT SHEET:
Introducing a New Spherical Smash-Hit Hero
FlingSmash™ combines the hands-on fun of tennis with the nonstop action and instant gratification of pinball. When the tropical Suthon Island is invaded by the evil Omminus, the ball-shaped hero, Zip, is summoned to save the day. Using the Wii Remote™ controller with the Wii MotionPlus™ accessory, you'll fling Zip at targets to smash your way across eight colorful worlds. Use the Wii Remote like a racket and watch Zip bounce around like a pinball to smash through oncoming barriers and enemies in this action-sidescroller.
FEATURES:
• Attach the Wii MotionPlus accessory to your Wii Remote controller to precisely fling and smash your way through enemies and past barriers with a fun combination of racket motions and pinball gameplay. Hit Zip and watch as he bounces around like a pinball, smashing everything in his path.
• A second player can join the action using an additional Wii Remote controller and Wii MotionPlus accessory (each sold separately) to control Zip's friend, Pip.
• During the game, Zip and Pip travel through eight fast-action side-scrolling worlds, each culminating in a boss battle. Each level offers a unique challenge as Zip might be shrunk down, fattened up or turned into a heavy steel ball. Other levels turn the action on its head to scroll vertically instead of horizontally.
• The vividly colored worlds include sandy beaches, lush tropical treetops and even underwater grottos.
• FlingSmash has eight unlockable mini-games and eight extra levels – all playable by one or two players.
• For left-handed players, the game will flip and position Zip on the left side of the screen.