Three stars out of four.įollow AP Entertainment Writer Derrik J. The developers at TT Games have created a fantastical toy world that proves there’s really no place like home. It was a blockheaded decision not to extend the game’s charms with some title cards, images or anything - ANYTHING! - other than just a rotating graphic.ĭespite that annoyance and a complete lack of any multiplayer mode, there’s still a load of fun to be had with “Lego City.” It’s a must-own for Wii U owners and Lego fans. The game’s biggest flaw is its mind-numbingly long loading screens that feature nothing more than a spinning police badge and some funky wah-chickah-wah-wah background music. It’s a neat touch but ultimately feels gimmicky and not integral to the overall experience. It’s mostly used to pinpoint locations on the interactive map, but it can also do stuff like spot bad guys through walls, listen in on conversations and snap photos of crimes. “Lego City” employs the touch screen of the Wii U GamePad as a police scanner and communicator.

These collectibles can be cashed in to craft superbuilds like helipads and stunt ramps. Just like the “Lego” games that have come before “Lego City,” there are millions of studs spread across the world that can be traded in for customizable characters and vehicles. The game is in good shape technically, with smooth gameplay and the elimination of the platforming frustrations that dogged previous LEGO titles. There are also lots and lots of bricks to pick up. Outside of the story missions that take McCain inside such Lego City locales as the museum and prison, there are enough side pursuits for even the most obsessive gamers, from capturing aliens to painting bricks. He can also ride horses, pigs and, at one point, a dinosaur. McCain can get behind the wheel of more than 100 vehicles: cars, trucks, boats and helicopters. (“I’ll come back and give you my insurance details later!” McCain yells after smashing into other cars.) While youngsters might enjoy “Lego City” the most, there’s plenty here for adults who grew up with “Grand Theft Auto,” including sendups of “Goodfellas” and “The Shawshank Redemption.” The game’s zany writing and voice acting alternate between corny and hilarious. If he’s imitating a burglar, his crowbar can crack open doors.

For example, when dressed as a farmer, McCain can water plants that blossom into vines that can be climbed. As undercover officer Chase McCain, players must seamlessly switch between multiple disguises with different abilities to hunt down Lego City lawbreakers.

Lego city undercover wii u review