LEGO Ninjago is based on a new and exciting concept; but, unfortunately, the game’s technology is old.

“LEGO Battle”, the first so-called "real time strategy game" from LEGO, was a great game when it was released back in 2009, but since then much has changed in terms of graphics and functionality. This follow-up game is based on a new and exciting concept, but, unfortunately, the game’s technology is old, resulting in lackluster graphics and poor game functionality.

The main plot revolves around the brothers Sensei Wu and Lord Garmadon, whose father was a great Spinjitzu champion. After he died, four golden weapons were given as an inheritance to his sons. Unfortunately, Garmadon refused to share the wealth. Eventually, a war broke out, and Sensei Wu decided to honor his promise to protect the weapons against the greedy Lord Garmadon.

One story line follows the Spinjitzu warriors, who seek to protect the powerful weapons. The second story line follows the army of skeletons, in their quest to free Lord Garmadon from the underworld, and help him in the fight for ownership of the golden weapons.

Players can choose from several game modes: A separate training program, two campaigns and the opportunity to play alone or with a friend. However, the game did not meet our expectations when it comes to graphics, playability and the gaming experience as a whole.

Still, there are some positive aspects to the game. The battle scenes are fun to play with a friend in 2-player mode. You can choose from different missions, such as Annihilation, Capture the Flag and King of the Hill. In the campaign mode, you’ll encounter hidden treasures and other exciting surprises along the way.

If you are new at playing real time strategy games and enjoy LEGO, this is a decent game. However, if you have some experience in the genre, your expectations won’t be met. For this reason, we cannot recommend this game.

Child suitability:
The game contains some fighting. The violence isn’t graphic, and quite innocent. The gaming universe is constructed by the shapes and colours of the LEGO universe, and contains no intimidating material. The Nintendo DS format provides a very limited screen size, and, thus, is less frightening than the impressions offered by a big flat screen TV.

Level of difficulty:

3-6 years: Under the age limit.

7-11 years: The game has a good training mode that teaches you the basics of the game. It isn’t particularly complicated to play; however, the control mechanics are mediocre and the graphics are equally poor. This makes it hard to control the players in an intense battle, and you really need to master the art of using the stylus in order to succeed.

12+: Due to the poor graphics and playability, the game will probably not appeal to young people and adults.

Suggested age group: Suitable for children between the ages of 7 and 11

Format: Nintendo DS

PEGI: 7, violence

Our Assessment: Not recommended

    
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