Video Games

Wall-E

BFor Xbox 360. Rated for all ages. $49

JUNK IN THE TRUNK: Games based on Pixar movies have always been a step above other movie-based titles, and Wall-E is no different. But it might be a little too complex for younger gamers. In the Wall-E game, you play as both the titular trash compactor and the object of his affection, the sleek killbot Eve.

WHEELS AND WINGS: The portions with Wall-E feature more puzzle-oriented missions, in which you have to pick up trash blocks and use them as projectiles, weights or batteries to power the decrepit machines left on Earth. Eve's levels are generally about flying fast, dodging obstacles and shooting rocks and other obstacles with your laser gun.

PIXAR PRETTY: The developers of the game did a good job of capturing the mood of the movie. The terrestrial junkyards are vast and intricate, while the human spaceship is a sleek shopping mall with rocket boosters. The two main characters also have plenty of personality. Leave Wall-E inactive for a bit, and he'll strike all sorts of cute, fidgeting poses.

BOTTOM LINE: Wall-E has some problems. The camera can get turned around and leave you stranded off the screen sometimes, and the puzzles and controls are occasionally tougher than 6- and 7-year-olds might be comfortable with. But it's a fun game that parents will enjoy tackling with their kids.

Victor Godinez

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