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Review of SimAnimals Africa on Nintendo DS

by Hemal Harris Hemal Harris photo Oct 2009
Cover image of SimAnimals Africa on DS
Gamefings Score: 6
Platform: DS DS logo
Released: 27 Oct 2009
Genre: Life Simulation
Developer: Electronic Arts
Publisher: Electronic Arts

Introduction

Ever wanted to be the overlord of a virtual African wildlife paradise? Well, strap on your safari hat, because 'SimAnimals Africa' is here to deliver just that. You get to play god to over 30 species of cartoonish animals while pretending you're in the middle of a digital savannah. But be warned: being the big cheese in the animal kingdom isn't all fun and games-there's a steep learning curve involved as you try to keep the peace amongst some pretty rowdy wildlife.

Gameplay

In 'SimAnimals Africa,' you're not just a spectator; you're a virtual deity controlling animal behaviors, habitats, and even the apocalypse-okay, maybe not that last part, but it sure feels like it sometimes! You'll manage over 30 species, each with their own quirky personalities. Now, managing a bunch of rogue wildlife sounds easy, but it's akin to babysitting a group of toddlers on a sugar high. One day, your cuddly lions might be lounging in the sun, and the next, they're staging a mutiny because you forgot to distribute their ceremonial berries. Players are tasked with creating a harmonious habitat, solving environmental puzzles, and ensuring that nobody's plotting to overthrow the monarchy of cute and fuzzy critters. The game ramps up in difficulty fairly quickly. You'll progress through various challenges as you not only capture their hearts but also collect items that lead to aesthetics that'll make your virtual forest the envy of the animal kingdom. You might be asked to blow into your DS mic to create wind-yes, that's right-because nothing says wildlife management like blowing into a microphone like a confused whale! There are hidden items and animal abilities to unlock, ensuring you're constantly engaged in the hustle and bustle of your animal kingdom. However, with great wildlife comes great responsibility-if you neglect your animal pals, they'll start displaying behaviors that will leave you questioning your capacity to lead. Forget to give a lion its lunch? You might just find it taking a bite out of your precious zebra. And keeping peace among the animal classes? Good luck-it's like being a modern-day Solomon, but with more lions and less wisdom.

Graphics

Now, let's talk visuals. The graphics of 'SimAnimals Africa' didn't exactly win any awards, but they aren't likely to give you the night terrors either. The animals are adorably exaggerated and come complete with a color palette that makes a kids' drawing look like a dull corporate presentation. They have cartoonish animations, and while the environments can feel a bit stagnant at times, they serve their purpose of framing your virtual wildlife extravaganza nicely. The trees sway, the flowers bob, and yes, even the animals have that charmingly goofy, 'I'm living my best life' vibe that's tons of fun to click through. Just imagine a zebra with a perpetual grin-that's basically your living environment.

Conclusion

'SimAnimals Africa' is like a wilderness-themed puzzle game wrapped in a fluffy coat of digital fur. It delivers an odd combination of engaging interaction and not-so-subtle challenges that require a bit of patience and, let's face it, a touch of luck. The learning curve is once again as steep as a giraffe on stilts, but those willing to persevere will undoubtedly find a treasure trove of creativity and management bliss. Just be ready for mild frustration when your animals act more like teenagers than cuddly companions. If you are looking for a lighthearted escapade filled with goofy animals and simulation chaos, then you might just enjoy your time in the virtual savanna. However, if you prefer adrenaline-pumping action or narrative depth, you might want to look elsewhere. In short, it's a charming title for those with a penchant for wildlife management, but don't expect to save the world-just save your own little animal kingdom!

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