Despite being identical to SuperSmash Brothers, this doesn't stop it being the fast, frantic fun you've been looking for
Buy hey! This doesn't stop it from being one of the Arcade's most accessible, fun and non-stop action game available.
Unsurprisingly, the gameplay is that very similar of the Super Smash Brother series; you are put against several other characters on a 2D map and fight it out 'til death do you part. There are two main attacks for each character and the result is in a satisfying and a frantic one.
However, there are a few strange gameplay quirks which hinder this from being a classic. For instance, the main focus relies on the pick-up of weapons. This is also coupled with the fact that you find yourself too often running out of ammo and will consequently end up with mad dashes trying to find a new weapon.
This also means there is less significance on which character you chose, as you will be likely to be able to pick up your preferred weapon while fighting it out, meaning the result is of less memorable characters.
In addition, there really seemed to be a lack of characters. Only 12 available – although there are a few more available with the extra content – which seemed disappointing compared with the vast array on offer on the latest Super Smash Brothers. The single player is also lacking much content; consisting of just 10 levels which can be finished in the same number of minutes
On the up-side, the Xbox Live and local multiplayer mode is where this really shines, with brawls rarely getting tiresome. There are several modes and a generous amount of varied, very attractive levels to keep you entertained as well as extra downloadable content to quench your thirst further, if you feel so obliged.
Let's not forget, Small Arms is yours just for 400 Microsoft Points. For this price, it would be completely unreasonable to expect something better or even on par with the Super Smash Brothers series. And, although rough around the edges, has more than enough positives to warrant you with a very entertaining and satisfying experience for both you and friends.