Jungle Party, which is due to be released in the UK on the 8th of October 2010, is the first Buzz! game in the PSP series to be aimed specifically at children. However, it must be said that this title already forms part of the Buzz Jr collection on the PS2.
Essentially, the game comprises of a set of mini games which are played against jungle animals. These include playing basketball with an elephant and even taming a lion.
Each game can be played by up to four players on one PSP using the 'Pass around mode' so brothers, sisters and Mum and Dad don't have to miss out on all the fun.
In Jungle Party you play as one of four cheeky little monkeys. You must complete a set of 15 challenges to be crowned King of the Jungle.
This is a cute little title with the emphasis on fun but for anyone over the age of ten it can quickly become repetitive. Everything is already unlocked at the beginning of the game and a lot of the features are very simple and easy to use.
Furthermore tasks such as throwing coconuts or completing daring tasks like stealing an ostrich egg to gain maximum points have already been seen in other 'party' type games (albeit with a different twist to the scenario).
Everything in this game title is colourful and bright, which will certainly appeal to very young gamers. This is definitely a family title, with traditional host Buzz being replaced by a sweet (and sometimes condescending) host, Becky Boxer.
However, that kind of hits the nail on the head really - in reshaping the Buzz! series for children, this title has lost the essence of what the main series is really about. This could be one of the reasons why the Buzz! logo has been removed from the PSP version of the game's packaging...
That is not to say that this title is not humorous or fun at all, just that it has not got the kind of energy and replay value of the traditional games.
Nevertheless, when you remember that the game's core audience is young children then Jungle Party makes absolute sense. It is just a shame that there could not be a little something included for older children or adults as well.
If you know some 'cheeky little monkeys' of your own and want a quick way to keep them entertained during school holidays and at the weekend, then this game is definitely worth considering. Definitely one for the kids.
However, if you are more a fan of the traditional Buzz! games instead, then do not despair, as another title Buzz! Ultimate Music Quiz will also be coming to the PSP and PS3 on the 15th of October. Look for a review of it on Mini Gamers very soon.
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