Review by: KidErl

After many years of waiting, our three famous vikings Erik, Baleog, and Olaf once again find themselves lost in a variety of worlds. Interplay finally brings the lost vikings up to the next generation consoles with Norse by Norsewest: The return of the Lost Vikings. While the graphics have undergone only minor alterations, Interplay has kept the mind-bending puzzles and added spectacular voice to make NBN a fine addition to any action/puzzle library.

Graphics:

This is by far the weakest part of the game. At first glance, they look like a rehash of it's predecessor. But there are some minor improvements. First, instead of being hand-drawn, all the main characters have been clay-modeled. Although small, there seems to be more detail in the vikings and they have many more animations than in the first game. Of course the color palate has been vastly expanded. While the background graphics are sparse, tons of color add detail and avoid the bland look of the first game.Between levels well-animated cinemas help to move the story along. I feel that keeping the graphics simple don't detract from the gameplay because the presentation allows for the style of game LV fans are used to.

6.0

Sound:

This is where NBN stands apart from the first game. The background music is OK. It's kinda boring, but it doesn't detract from gameplay. Where Interplay hits the mark is with great voice acting. All of the major characters in the game talk (even the help boxes talk!) and most importantly, the voice acting is excellent! Each voice is completely different, and adds a new level of depth to each character. It really makes a difference when you hear a character talk instead of reading his dialog from a box!

9.5

Gameplay:

Not much has changed from the first game. The premise of the game is the same and the object is to get each Viking to the end of the level by using their skills. One frustrating thing from the first game still remains. If one Viking dies, then you must restart the level. Control is crisp, with the trigger buttons seamlessly switching control of the vikings. The inventory system is easy to control and even switching items between vikings is pretty easy. One addition to the game are two new characters, Scortch and Fang, who at times replace one of the vikings and who each have unique skills. But you never have to control more than 3 characters. The first few levels of the game are basically for training; with many help boxes. This game has a great learning curve. You never feel overwhelmed. Unfortunately, there are only 31 levels, but the later ones will take some time to get through! This game only supports one or two players, which makes me wonder why the multi-tap option wasn't added.

9.0

Overall, Norse by Norsewest continues the Action/puzzle tradition of The Lost Vikings. If you are a fan of the first game, then you can't go wrong with this sequel. For those who want a challenging game with loads of humor, then Norse by Norsewest is a game that will provide loads of fun and frustration.

Overall:8.0