Review: de Blob

de Blob 2, previously known as de Blob: The Underground, is an upcoming sequel to the Wii exclusive 2008 platformer, de Blob. The game is set to be released on February 22, 2011 for both Wii and DS platforms. The game was recently confirmed for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 platforms in addition to the Wii and DS. Additionally, it has been confirmed for the Nintendo 3DS handheld system.

Release Date: February 22, 2011
MSRP: $39.99
Also on: Xbox 360, DS, PS3, 3DS
RP for Rating Pending
Genre: Platformer 
Publisher: THQ
Developer: Blue Tongue
Local Play: 4 Co-op

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Gameplay:
The play of the game is, in many ways, similar to the original de Blob. The player still controls the Blob character, who can mix colours in order to paint objects and bring life to the cityscape, which in turn opens up previously locked areas. Blob is given missions by his friends in the Colour Underground, such as completing timed races, defeating enemies, liberating captured Raydians and seizing important landmarks.

New additions include a wide array of abilities. Blob can now perform a powerful dash attack, which breaks through obstacles and kills some foes, at the expense of paint points. Furthermore, as the player progresses through the game, they obtain 'inspiration points', which are used at the Idea Emporium to purchase upgrades for Blob, such as increased paint capacity and defensive shields.[6] Power-ups will feature within the levels as well. For example, the magnetic Wrecking Ball allows Blob to roll up metal surfaces and the Hazmat Suit protects Blob from spikes & flames, while the Graviton Bomb temporarily transforms Blob into a devastating black hole, the Re-Gen constantly replenishes Blob's paint points and the Rainbow lets Blob use any colour at any time.

Final Thoughts:
The game also has a heavier emphasis on platforming. Much like the first game, Blob has to take over landmark buildings in the city, but this time, rather than simply needing a certain amount of paint points to capture it, Blob enters the buildings. Inside, the gameplay switches from its usual 3D point of a view to a 2D perspective. Blob must complete a platforming challenge filled with many hazards, like the brand new Gravity Wall mechanics, before the building is taken. There are over 100 of these platforming stages throughout the course of the game.

Rating: 3.5 = Average
Recommendation: A good Buy