Top Ten Animated Movie Tie-In PlayStation Games #8

#8: Disney’s Action Game Featuring Hercules (PS1)

Disney’s 35^th animated classic Hercules has garnered an unexpected cult following since its initial release, although it nonetheless remains one of the least acknowledged of the Disney Renaissance. Regardless, I’ve always personally held this movie in high regard ever since its original release in 1997. What’s not to like about it? Sure, it’s stylish, not to mention laden with pop culture references, but it suits the movie. The music and the characters are no less interesting than what we’ve come to expect from the average Disney flick, and to render this anything less than average is ridiculous. No, it isn’t one of Disney’s more, say, herculean efforts, but it’s nonetheless extremely likeable. Coinciding with the film’s release, Disney Interactive and Eurocom produced a video-game adaptation and, while short, it didn’t disappoint.

One aspect of the game that’s worth mentioning is the look of it. Obviously, it being the only 2D side-scrolling game on this list, the graphics appear pretty dated, especially in comparison to some of the later releases. However, I would argue that the game’s dated 2D look strangely works in its favour and is in fact part of the appeal. For starters, it looks remarkably like the film, with various locations appearing almost identical to their filmic representations and each and every character from the movie making cameo appearances throughout. Heck, it’s even worth dying just to see the charming vignettes that accompany the ‘game over’ screen. I guess what I’m trying to say is, they really capture the essence of the movie, so much so that it almost feels as though you’re in the movie itself. Furthermore, while there may not be a great deal of 3D animation in the game, what little 3D graphics there are, are pretty impressive. The hydra is especially noteworthy as the only 3D rendered character, and it looks incredible.

The design of the game is interesting. Not only can Hercules attack with a swipe of his sword, but he can also summon the power of the gods by collecting special swords that perform various abilities. For example, one sword permits the player the use of a lightning bolt which you can direct through the sword in any direction, while another shoots flaming fireballs which home in on your enemies. There is also the option to punch your foes, although this is pretty ineffective. In addition, you can pick up and throw objects into the background, and open secret underground caverns with a kind of ‘ground slam’. It’s simple, yes. But it works.

However, the game has some notable drawbacks. For one thing, the title of the game is obscure – Disney’s Action Game Featuring Hercules? Featuring?! Why is it not just called Disney’s Hercules? Why in the name of Zeus did they think this title would appeal?! Moreover, as I’ve already mentioned, the game’s length leaves a lot to be desired. With just ten levels, it doesn’t last long. In addition, after all the interesting locations and challenging levels, the finale itself feels rather uninspired and lazy – Hades’ elimination is hardly the challenge I expected it to be. Regardless, the rest of the game more than makes up for it, with bosses at every turn, surprisingly lengthy 3D ‘obstacle course’ levels, and even the opportunity to ride Pegasus. It may not leave you feeling like it’s something truly heroic, but it’s nonetheless a decent effort.

7/10