This whacky 3DS game from Nintendo is the perfect platform for younger gamers to create their own virtual creatures called formees and their creation is only limited by the players imagination. By using the innovative controls of the 3DS, players can choose from over 600 different forms as they tweak these creatures to explore this rich and engaging world from adding wings or multiple legs like a centipede to their formees. It's all up to you. It should also be noted that this game definitely targets the younger gamer and Nintendo do a good job at delivering a fun game for this particular audience.

Before jumping into this colourful world, you first need to create your formees via the creation tool which could keep you busy for a considerable amount of time. Add in a "voice" for them and even a catch phrase and you're ready to play. Best of all, it's all Stylus controlled which really lets you unleash your creative side. Although there is an element of exploration to this game and even a touch of RPG, as you do progress, the game opens up additional forms and shapes to the player... it's basically a create your own Pokémon game.

At first your formees are quite basic creatures, however by completing quests such as finding fruit, going dungeon crawling or delivering items to other formees, you are awarded goodies such as gold and food to assist your creatures during questing. The main controls of the title is the stylus which is used well with the gameplay to not only create your formees but navigate the menus and the environment.

Exploring the dungeons of FreakyForms Deluxe: Your Creations, Alive! is a fun part of the game but it is quite basic. Don't expect the next Zelda game here. Enemies in the game are generally quite easy to battle and there is the occasional boss battle to be found in the dungeon. Combat is also automated and it actually works well with the simplistic premise of the game. Formees even have their own special attacks and while exploring the dungeons, you can discover additional powers for your characters.

In terms of multiplayer, FreakyForms Deluxe: Your Creations, Alive! supports Street Past which allows player's formees to interact and share images from their games. Local multiplayer on the other hand allows up to four players to join together and best of all, only one person needs to own the game. Once the players are connected, they can commence their formee creation. At the end of the day, FreakyForms Deluxe: Your Creations, Alive! is an interesting game that younger gamers will enjoy, even some older gamers who are looking for something a little left of centre.

Graphics/Audio

Graphically, Fortunately FreakyForms Deluxe: Your Creations, Alive! is a bizarre looking game with extremely strange concepts. The game is quite colourful with some great use of lighting and some fun special effects. 3D isn't really a highlight of the game but at times, it does add a unique element to your creations. The areas that you visit like the dungeons and the wilderness look good in this strange surreal and Spartan way. The sound effects are equally as whacky with all these strange sounds and the musical score suits the game well.

Final Level

When a game is so far outside the square in terms of creativity, it can be a dangerous dance between something ridiculous and genius. Fortunately FreakyForms Deluxe: Your Creations, Alive! falls into the almost genius category with its charming and simplistic gameplay with massive customisation options. With fun gameplay, easy controls, this is definitely the most quirky game of the year and if you're looking for something totally different, check it out!

Update by Editor: Freakyforms was originally available through the eShop, however the deluxe version (e.g. store version) contains additional shapes and the inclusion of an RPG-like Dungeon Crawl.