I pretty much know what to expect when I open up a tie in computer game from a children's movie. They are often cheaply made and lack any sense of depth. However, the likes of `Up' proved that, although they are never likely to reach true greatness, some of them can provide some relaxed entertainment to wind down with after playing something more extreme. For this reason I picked up THQ's `Megamind: Ultimate Showdown'. The game is set after the film and has Megamind battling a series of enemies who were foolhardy enough to steal his inventions. Now on the side of good, Megamind still has no problems using his assortment of weapons to freeze, shrink or heat enemies and objects.
Coming in at a budget level, gamers should not expect too much from the game as to avoid disappointment. It is one of the most vanilla experiences I have had on current consoles. The game is an extremely basic platform shooter; point at the enemy and fire. Even for a game aimed at a younger audience the repetitive nature of the levels, poor collision detection and dubious jumping, means that it's just not up to scratch. On a positive note there is a simple local co-op mode for a family with two youngsters, but apart from that the game lacks polish - the voice acting is not from the cast of the film.
Too completely undermine `Megamind: Ultimate Showdown' would be a little naïve as the game is advertised as part of THQ's budget range and it reflects that truth. However, with many of the LEGO games now reduced from their original price you get far more enjoyment out of those experiences, even when they are full RRP. This game is only for people who really like the film.