Here we go again. On the heels of reviewing the likable Rango: The Video Game, we’ve got yet another mediocre game based on a hit animated film. However, unlike most releases out there, Rio doesn’t necessarily try to tack on lame platforming segments. Instead, it sticks to what players will probably like the most – party games. In the game, you choose from a variety of characters from the animated film, including birds like Diego, Nico and Jewel, and take part in one of a variety of mini-games. These games are usually held in small, enclosed areas, so the rules don’t get too far out of hand. There are a variety of activities to choose from, including an interesting hockey puck blocking game that’s reminiscent of the old Atari game Warlords, a music/rhythm game that requires precision taps on the analog stick (compared to using a dance pad, but no biggie) and a firework shooting game that’s livelier than we expected it to be, though it comes to an end way too soon. The objectives are easy to follow, as each mini-game is thoroughly explained in a quick sequence before the round starts. It’s not rocket science. Kids can easily pick up and play in any of these rounds, and adults can play right along with them, provided they can tolerate the over-the-top tropical atmosphere.
Seriously, playing this game too long could make you yearn for looking back in your backyard again. It goes overboard on the “go to Rio!” theme. Rio does feature a Story Mode, but there’s hardly much of a story here. One of the characters from the film explains things to you through repetitive, second-rate dialogue, then sets you on your way through a string of mini-games. There are sequences taken straight from the film, but they’re hardly what you would call lengthy. A few seconds and you’re moving on to the next part of the game. There’s also a Party Mode, and here, you can craft your schedule of mini game events accordingly, so they run one after the other. This is probably your best bet, as you won’t have to go through the nauseating narration and can get right to the fun. For the most part, the mini games do exactly what they need to. They’re hardly memorable, but they are enjoyable against others, and they end at just the right time so they don’t wear out their welcome. They’re definitely reminiscent of the old Mario Party games, but, again, with that tropical theme that wears itself out something ridiculous. The controls are basic, but easy to learn, mostly consisting of jumping and throwing actions.
One downside to the gaming action is that it’s off-line only. Rio doesn’t support Xbox Live in any fashion, and requires you to play against local friends and family. It’s not like a game such as Rio was really clamoring for a huge online community anyway, but for those stuck playing stag, the lame-brained AI doesn’t really put up much of a fight. But then again, if you’re buying party games for solo enjoyment, something’s wrong with you. Rio’s soundtrack is decent, though it mostly consists of the same oceanic themes that play repeatedly. You might opt to play your own beach soundtrack instead…something with “Kokomo” by The Beach Boys or something along those lines. The voiceovers are decent, but obviously they’re different from the quality talent found in the film. So if you’re expecting to hear George Lopez or Tracy Morgan refill their roles here, sadly, it’s just not happening. Also, the dialogue, as we stated, gets repetitive a little too soon. Proceed with caution. Visually, Rio’s not half bad. Though the theme, as we said, is wayyyy too colorful, the animation is pretty smooth, almost as if you’re taking part in the film.
Each of the characters have their own specific animations, even if they’re celebrating or accepting their lower place in each round. The camera view is just right for the mini games too, so you can see specifically what’s happening without needing to adjust anything. The action never gets too frantic that you lose sight of what’s happening, as each of the characters are highlighted by individual colors. It’s pretty cool, though hardly what we’d call original. Still, we’ve seen worse party games. Far worse. This game does have one huge benefit over others – its price. Where other games go for around $40 on up, Rio clocks in at a very reasonable $30. For a party game, that’s an acceptable price, though those folks who aren’t crazy about the film or don’t care for party games may want to turn their dollars over to a superior product – like Rango, for instance. No, Rio doesn’t really change anything. Its colorful presentation may be too much for some to stomach, it isn’t long before the games or general content becomes repeated, and the lack of online play shuts the door on any expanded competition. That said, for a party game, this could’ve been far worse, and those with family and friends seeking a quick thrill might just find this to be paradise. Even for a short time, anyway.
