Shrek 2 First Look

Activision stopped by our offices with a PlayStation 2 preview build of Shrek 2 today, and we took a brief look at how the new action game based on the forthcoming CG fantasy film is taking shape. Shrek 2 will loosely follow the plot of the movie, with the newlyweds Shrek and Fiona (the latter of whom has assumed full-time ogre status) answering an invitation from Fiona's hometown to come and visit. Even after just a few minutes with the game, it was obvious that the developer is doing a lot more with the license in this game than in previous Shrek video game incarnations.

Shrek 2's single-player mode will consist of a series of storybook-themed levels that contain basic combat and a generous number of puzzle elements. You'll control a party of four at all times, with characters like Shrek, Fiona, Donkey, the Gingerbread Man, and even originals like Little Red (Riding Hood, you know) joining the adventure. You'll actively control only one character at a time, but the other three will follow you and participate in combat on their own, and you can switch to another character at will. What's more, up to three other players can grab a controller at any time and play as one of the three characters you're not currently using.

Each of the characters in the game will have a standard attack and a special move that can be used in fighting or puzzle situations. Shrek is a big, burly bruiser, of course, and in addition to his melee fighting skills, he can pick up heavy objects that others can't manage. Fiona's special move allows her to slow down time for a few seconds, rendering enemies nearly helpless while you fight. Donkey has the "burro blast," a superstrong kick that can be used in some puzzle situations. Around 10 characters will be available for play throughout the game, so you'll encounter a lot of variety before you reach the end.

From what we could tell, the levels in Shrek 2 will be packed with a generous number of activities to keep you occupied. You'll run into foes that aren't too happy about your presence in their land, so you'll have plenty of opportunities for combat. Lots of puzzles will also stop your progress, some of which require the talents of multiple characters to be completed. Each level will also feature at least one "hero time" sequence, which is a minigame-style interlude that only one character can take part in (the other three hang out on the sidelines in the meantime). Finally, you'll be able to pick up coins as you play, which will unlock special features in the game, such as stills from Shrek 2.

So far, Shrek 2 looks like it will provide an entertaining and surprisingly varied action experience. The game looked quite good on the PS2 and has really managed to capture the fantastical, storybook look of the film in its characters and environments. Shrek 2 is currently scheduled for release in May on all five platforms, and we'll bring you more on it soon.