Chibi-Robo Zip Lash 3DS Review
Summary: Chibi-Robo Zip Lash on the 3DS is a fun arcade game that delivers an enjoyable yet clichéd experience on this console!
3.6
Whip it good!
The classic GameCube character returns on the Nintendo 3DS with Chibi-Robo Zip Lash that transforms players into a whip carrying Robot and if you purchased the Amiibo Bundle, you get a very cool looking figurine as well which may needed in order to save the world from snack stealing robots!
So in this faux 2.5 scroller with some simplistic yet cartoon-like gaming environments, Chibi-Robo has a very clever twist with the inclusion of a powerful extension cord that allows him to navigate and interact with the gaming world, six to be precise and smash his enemies. Another interesting element of your little robot is how small the character is compared to the gaming environment which definitely makes Chibi stand out that the developers use well.
So as you progress, Chibi can collect power-ups and collectibles in order to progress through the diverse and colourful levels as you attempt to stop an alien invasion that have a taste for snacks who make a big mess. Apart from using your extension cord to attack your enemies, it is also used to press switches and complete other simple puzzles which is quite fun. Furthermore, each of the worlds that you visit has a boss that must be defeated and does give you a relatively sturdy challenge, albeit a little clichéd.
Controlling Chibi works really on the 3DS controls as you climb, jump and even (sort of) fly around with your crazy extension cord, especially when it grows longer and you use it to ricochet off walls. In terms of controls, Chibi can access some “vehicles” like skateboards and balloons in order to navigate the world and at times, the controls get a little whonky here. Your power cord is also divided into a Whip Lash (short attack) and Zip Lash (aimed attack) which must be used on conjunction to finish the game.
If you purchase the Amiibo Bundle of Chibi-Robo Zip Lash, you actually get access to a more powerful Chibi that basically gives you a super boost but thankfully this feature is limited. I enjoyed this feature because if you get stuck or need a little bonus in finishing the level, this super Chibi-Robo definitely does the trick. Furthermore, the Chibi-Robo Amiibo that comes with the game is quite a detailed looking figure and I love the power cord on his silver head.
There are also quite a few things to collect in the game like snacks, coins and trash which is stored in your home that can be accessed between levels. Also between levels, there is this strange mini-game which requires you to spin a wheel in order to move through the levels of the world that you are on that sometimes requires you to play a level again. It’s a really weird gaming mechanic but you do get familiar with it.
Graphics/Audio
Graphically, Chibi-Robo Zip Lash on the 3DS is a very colourful looking game that boasts some cartoon-like environments which really harken back to those classic side-scrollers but with a 21st century facelift. The star of the game is Chibi-Robo and all the various special effects that make this quite a good looking game on this console, although a little Spartan at times. Audio works hand in hand with the graphics and before you know it, you’ll be humming or whistling these tunes long after you’ve finished the game.
Final Thoughts?
Chibi-Robo Zip Lash may not be the most original game of 2015 but it gives the player an honest arcade experience with a fun protagonist and some old-school gaming mechanics with a few twists and challenges to be found along the way. To borrow an element from the song by Devo “I say whip it… Whip it Good!”
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