Mon, 13 Oct 2008 by Corbie Dillard
It's certainly no secret to WiiWare fans that World of Goo has seen more hype than just about any other WiiWare title to date. While this generally leads to unrealistic expectations, every so often a game somehow manages to not only fulfil the hype, but exceed it. Say hello to World of Goo. Not only does the game live up to the immense attention that has been heaped upon it over the past few months, but it brings one of the most unique and original gaming experiences to the WiiWare service yet and proves that a WiiWare title done right can be every bit as good, if not better, than an actual Wii retail release.
There's nothing quite like a simple design where everything just seems to click. That's an apt description of the gameplay found in World of Goo. There are no complicated control schemes to learn and no gameplay tutorial is even needed. You basically grab balls of Goo and stick them onto each other to slowly build them into a structure that will reach the drainpipe located somewhere in each level. Each level has a specific Goo requirement that lets you know ahead of time how many Goo Balls you must guide to the drainpipe in order to progress to the next level. Once you complete the level, you're given a report card of your performance, such as how many moves and how much time it took you to complete the level.
Building these structures with the Goo is tough in and of itself, as the game employs astoundingly realistic physics. This means that you have to be careful how and where you attach balls of Goo. If you put too many Goo Balls on one side, the structure will begin to sway and will soon collapse under the strain. You have to carefully balance things out if you're to have any hope of reaching some of the lofty drainpipe locations in each level.
To make matters even more challenging, you'll also have to deal with various other dangers ranging from gusty winds to spike-filled pits, all of which can spell dire consequences to your Goo if you're not careful. Luckily you'll be given access to a variety of different types of Goo to help you out, each with their own unique characteristics. You'll find that some Goo Balls are very flexible and will stretch while other types of Goo are firm. There's also Goo that can be attached and then disconnected whereas other Goo will be permanently locked into place once attached. There are even Matchstick Goo Balls that are highly combustible, which can be used to start a chain reaction of fire. It's up to you to figure out how to use each type of Goo and how to connect them in order to traverse the many challenges in each level. If you find yourself stuck, you can always read the Sign Painter's messages located in various places around each level that will give you a vague hint at what you're objective is in each level. It's not much to go on, but you'll definitely appreciate the help on some of the more intricate levels.
The control method in World of Goo is extremely intuitive given that you basically only use the Wii Remote to move your Goo pointer around the screen and one action button to latch onto a Goo Ball and drag it to where you want to attach it. It's this simple play control coupled with the challenging level designs that make playing the game so challenging and nerve-wracking all at the same time. Nothing sends a wave of panic through your body quite like the sight of your teetering tower of Goo collapsing down around you. Of course the sound of all your Goo Balloons popping won't exactly instil any confidence in your plan either. It's this careful blend of patient Goo construction along with the constantly changing conditions around you that make each level so enthralling. The game just has this uniquely addictive quality where the more you fail the more you'll find yourself going back to try to find a way to complete each level. It can be quite maddening at times, especially when you finally realize that the solution was actually right in front of you the whole time.
World of Goo sports 48 levels to play through, so you'll really have your work cut out for you in order to finish the game. Depending on your skill level, you can expect to spend in excess of 7 hours on the game (even more if you feel the need to go back and try to build up your extra Goo Balls or try to achieve faster completion times on the various levels). You can even select the OCD option (Obsessive Completion Distinction) which ups the amount of Goo Balls you need to rescue to complete the level if you're looking for more of a challenge. About the only downside to the entire package is that it's a bit like an RPG in that once you figure out the puzzles in each level, it's not much fun to go back and play it again, at least not until you're brain has had time to forget most of the solutions to each level. As much fun as the game is, it's a no-brainer that you'll want to come back to the game at some point, just not right away.
While the single player mode is the heart and soul of the game, the developers have included a couple of additional modes to make things a bit more interesting. Multi-player is a nice change of pace in which up to four players can play each level in a co-operative fashion. This can make it a bit easier to tackle some of the tougher levels, since it will make it easier to distribute large numbers of Goo Balls around the structure at once. It can also make it more difficult if you can't find a way to work in synch with one another.
The World of Goo Corporation mode allows you to build your own unique Goo structures with extra Goo balls that you've collected in each level, and have them displayed using the WiiConnect24 setting of your Wii console. Each cloud in the World of Goo Corporation represents a player around the world and how high they've currently built their Goo tower. It serves as basically an online leaderboard of sorts too see who can build their tower the highest.
The visuals in World of Goo often look like they just stepped out of a Dr. Seuss book. The backdrops have a very abstract look to them. Couple this with the amazing use of vibrant and often-contrasting colours and the end result is one of the most unique visual experiences you're likely to see in a video game. There's not only a lot of variety between the different areas of the game, but each individual level generally has its own unique look and feel as well. You'll almost never see the same graphical styling between the different levels and the surroundings seem to get better and better as you progress through the game. Even the Goo Balls themselves show a good amount of detail and variety, so it's never too tough to distinguish between the various types of Goo. It's clear from the moment you begin playing World of Goo that a lot of time and emphasis was placed on making the game not only look outstanding, but to offer up something unique and original as well.
As amazing as the visuals in World of Goo are, it would be a shame not to mention the outstanding musical score and realistic sound effects that go along with it. The music sounds more like it belongs in a Tim Burton movie than a video game, but it somehow fits the overall theme of the game perfectly. And if you're fortunate enough to own a good Dolby Surround Sound system, you're in for a wall-shaking treat with World of Goo. Some of the musical tracks have a softer, more melodic tone to them, whereas other tracks are more up tempo and moody for levels that tend to feature a more frantic atmosphere. The songs are repeated at times, but they're so good you certainly won't mind. To complement this creative musical score are some of the most quirky, yet realistic sound effects you'll ever hear; never before has the sound of Goo splattering into infinity sounded quite so nice. Even the sounds of your Goo balloons popping are very authentic. As easy as it would have been to simply tack on some half-baked sound effects to go along with the impressive visuals, it's nice to see a developer go the extra mile and put some thought into making the game sound as good as it looks.
1. Dazza
13 Oct 2008, 21:55 GMT
Great review Corbie. You completely summed up my feelings of playing World of Goo all week on the PC, given all the pre-launch hype I was afraid it wouldn't live up to expectations, but amazingly it managed to far surpass them!
What a game! It feels like the joy I got playing Lemmings for the first time in 1991. Very fresh and original
2. Luigi
13 Oct 2008, 22:01 GMT
Wow! 10/10! Didn't see that coming!
3. AlexSays
13 Oct 2008, 22:01 GMT
I knew it!
This game is as close to perfect as we'll probably see on WiiWare.
Hopefully the developers see this review, they deserve the credit!
4. Corbie
13 Oct 2008, 22:02 GMT
I just didn't want it to end. In fact, I might run through it again just to try to build my World of Goo Corporation Tower up higher.
5. lucario13
13 Oct 2008, 22:03 GMT
WOW, hey corbie is it true europe not gettin it on the wiiware?
6. Ferret75
13 Oct 2008, 22:03 GMT
10/10.
Wow. =o
7. Corbie
13 Oct 2008, 22:03 GMT
No. Europe will be getting a retail version with extra levels in the Spring. I'm wondering if a Mac OS X version might be in the works. I wouldn't mind being able to take this game with me out of town on business.
8. samus2008
13 Oct 2008, 22:07 GMT
awesome review, corbie, a 10/10 is what i would've given it too cause this is truly the best game on wiiware!
9. danik
13 Oct 2008, 22:08 GMT
Great score still not sure i would purchase it as it doesnt sounds too much like a game for me but i think its obviously going to do well.
Thanks for the review
10. RetroWare
13 Oct 2008, 22:10 GMT
WOW..... * twitching in joy from godly score *
Excuse me, let me just catch myself for a second............all better
I honestly can't believe that this game got a 10/10 (not saying that in a bad way).
Anyways, great review Corbie, and thanks for puttingit up so darn quick! No where is Cubello's review?
11. Terranigma
13 Oct 2008, 22:12 GMT
Woah, a 10!? My god, if only i was more interested in the game. It just ain't for me but nice to see it's that it gets the first 10
12. lucario13
13 Oct 2008, 22:13 GMT
Thnx corbie. Still sucks thou.
13. OverlordMao
13 Oct 2008, 22:18 GMT
eh,It LOOKS and IS like a great game,but I don't think it's for me.
14. Pegasus
13 Oct 2008, 22:20 GMT
Yes, Corbie, an OS X and Linux version will be released at a later date. Says so right on 2d Boy's website.
15. Cheezy
13 Oct 2008, 22:21 GMT
i'll buy it. But not yet, because I'm only a little interested in this, and I've been buying Wii Points for the past 4 weeks. I'm all out of cash.
16. beastman93
13 Oct 2008, 22:24 GMT
will buy! Secret of Mana, World of Goo, and I am buying No More Heroes. What an amazing week!
17. Finalkingdom13
13 Oct 2008, 22:24 GMT
Im deffinetatly going to get this =]
after alien crush comes out =p
so that way i buy more wii points =]
18. Corbie
13 Oct 2008, 22:25 GMT
@ Pegasus - Great news! I'll definitely pick the Mac version up when it's released.
19. Versus22
13 Oct 2008, 22:26 GMT
YES... 10/10!
Congratulations on your first 10 rating WiiWare World! LET'S CELEBRATE!
Also, big time credit to 2D Boy for an awesome WiiWare game!
20. bloober
13 Oct 2008, 22:36 GMT
2D boy are our competitors but we have to say that they did fantastic job. We know how hard it was and they did it! CONGRATULATIONS!
It should be the way for each WiiWare developer - create something unique and special not just next crap. We really hope that more WiiWare developers will invest their time and mind to create fresh and big titles like World of Goo.
21. bboy2970
13 Oct 2008, 22:37 GMT
A 10/10, are you joking! World of goo is simply put, the worst game on wiiware to date.......................haha, just kidding! decided to cut the joke short before being verbally assaulted! But seriously, this review could not be more spot on. World of goo is AMAZING!!
22. Negative_Zero
13 Oct 2008, 22:38 GMT
Do they have a pc demo?
23. blockhead
13 Oct 2008, 22:39 GMT
i've downloaded it
IT IS AWESOME
24. agent_lime 13 Oct 2008, 22:42 GMT
Great review! I agree with the 10, this game is amazing!
25. Naturestee
13 Oct 2008, 22:42 GMT
Yay for 2D Boy! Now if only I had the time to play it... Whatever, they're still getting my monies.
If anyone complains about getting yet another puzzler on WiiWare, I'll kick them.
26. Nintendork
13 Oct 2008, 22:44 GMT
Finally! WWW first 10/10!
27. Clayfrd
13 Oct 2008, 22:49 GMT
I'll have to download this as soon as I can! Crap. I only have 400 points, which means I'll have to buy a whole 2000 more. At least I'll have enough to get Cubello then...
@BeastMan93 - Have fun with No More Heroes. I got it back in January, and it's a great game. It's weird, but it's one of the few hack and slashes I actually enjoy.
28. Gitaroo_Dude
13 Oct 2008, 22:49 GMT
Wow, this is just getting crazy now.
Way too many good games coming out too fast.
Tetris Party is likely to come out soon too since the preview is up now, and so is Strong Bad 3.
But congrats to 2D Boy. Showing the world that passion and ambition trumps money and large teams when it comes to making games.
29. darkmagi_82
13 Oct 2008, 22:50 GMT
My prediction was correct! And I will soon be in possession of Wii Points! * does dorky victory dance *
30. WarioFan63
13 Oct 2008, 22:54 GMT
Woah Corbie has a Mac? Is it possible for Corbie to get more awesome?
31. i_am_error
13 Oct 2008, 22:55 GMT
It deserves it. Best WiiWare to date and probably one of the games of the year. Simply put, a masterpiece.
32. tantrumario
13 Oct 2008, 22:59 GMT
Wow..... The sites first 10. AWESOME!!!!
33. Tony
13 Oct 2008, 23:09 GMT
I knew it. would get a 10 after I read IGN's impressive review
34. Starwolf_UK
13 Oct 2008, 23:10 GMT
Do they have a pc demo?
Not really. Though you can find Tower of goo which is like the World of Goo Corporation section so will give you a feel for the physics. I look forward to getting this game on Thursday.
35. Kawaiipikachu
13 Oct 2008, 23:15 GMT
Wow 10/10 score i would be getting it then i will yes i well even if its the same here in Australia as Europe i would certainly buying it .
The only problem for a pal retail release would be a price increase as 1500 points would be $22.50AUD & the average cost for a retail game is $99.95AUD .
Yes unfortunately Australia has to pay more for all the retail games .
edit
Great review Corbie i dont know why but there is something about your reviews that i love .
36. Jonny
13 Oct 2008, 23:19 GMT
First wiiware 10 and we don't get it....that makes me so angry i can't express myself without getting banned for abusive language.
37. MarkyVigoroth
13 Oct 2008, 23:20 GMT
There is finally a 10! Corbie-san did not rate Rockman 9 a ten, since Rockman 9 did not truly push the Wii, yet World of Goo did!
Your review, especially your 10, motivated me to buy World of Goo! (Now, if only I can re-set my Wii Points reservation, since I have planned games for 6,000 WP!)
38. Negative_Zero
13 Oct 2008, 23:22 GMT
Thanks starwolf_uk.
39. Nero
13 Oct 2008, 23:23 GMT
I just finished the game on PC and this game is so amazing. I've been listening to the music in Winamp for many hours now and love it. There's some truly amazing levels in here that will make you go OMG.
40. Corbie
13 Oct 2008, 23:39 GMT
I sincerely appreciate all the kind words. Very much so. This was an easy game to review and a lot of fun. I hope everyone enjoys the game as much as I did.
41. Mario64DStyle
13 Oct 2008, 23:42 GMT
Wow, very nice. I'm buying this for sure as soon as I can
42. Negative_Zero
14 Oct 2008, 00:13 GMT
Yeah this looks sweet, once I get the cash im soooo getting this
43. whalleywhat
14 Oct 2008, 00:15 GMT
Hopefully there'll eventually be DLC for those of us who bought the WiiWare version. So good.
44. robbob88
14 Oct 2008, 00:39 GMT
Corbie says that this raises the bar for WiiWare developers but it DEFANITLEY raises the bar for the super lazy Software companies that make crappy games even though those software companies have more people than a three man team. Great job on 2DBoys' part.
45. breaderer
14 Oct 2008, 00:39 GMT
I love this game....but its really hard.(maybe I just suck at it)
46. SupermarketZombies
14 Oct 2008, 00:52 GMT
Wow...I was kind of expecting a flop...I guess I'll be buying this then?
47. tasthomas
14 Oct 2008, 00:56 GMT
yeah, I haven't played it yet, but it looks kinda like Lemmings or Pikmin.
48. Kirk
14 Oct 2008, 00:56 GMT
Hmmmmm...
Based on some of these comments it looks like this may turn out to be another one of those Wii games that gets really great reviews in the press and such but the no one actually goes out and buys it...
49. MrPoo6321
14 Oct 2008, 00:57 GMT
Most definitely getting this when I buy my next Wii Points card.... You mofo's better not be over-hyping the game GTAIV style!!!
50. Crazynoodle
14 Oct 2008, 01:03 GMT
Wow A 10/10
I always wanted to buy this , it looks awesome. I now onley need to buy another 2000 points. There are way to many interesting wiiwares. I also hope there will be downloadable contant, b/c it looks awesome. I would want more levels once i beat it. Great reveiw corbie, i just wish there was a level editor.
I am deffinantly buying this i love puzzles
51. Kirk
14 Oct 2008, 01:08 GMT
I suggest gamers get for their girlfriends and sisters, as a present, or they should let their parents try it and see if they enjoy it.
Maybe then it will get out there and do some decent sales.
Can you send WiiWare games as gifts or is it only VC games?
52. WeeGee
14 Oct 2008, 01:11 GMT
Oh, cool 10/10. I'm just wondering though. If this wiiware game is 10/10 than what would you consider an actual retail game a 10/10? Is this a Super Smash Bros. Brawl 10/10 or what...
53. Peznaze
14 Oct 2008, 01:18 GMT
Wow, 10/10... perfection! And so quickly reviewed, too! Shocking to see, congratulations to the Goo Corporation!
I'll be passing, though, I think... It'd take longer for me to download than it will take to win, so... not really worth it for me.
54. shadows262
14 Oct 2008, 01:25 GMT
haha MM9 got served
is world of goo this good
omg im sooo getting it tomorrow well i was anyway but still
i thought it was gonna get an 8/10 highest 9/10 but NOT 10/10 I LUV IT HAVENT EVEN PLAYED IT YET!!!!!
55. Adam
14 Oct 2008, 01:37 GMT
2dboy has definitely noticed the score. It's noted at the top of their site.
Doesn't look like my kind of game, but it sure is pretty. Hopefully someone will get it so I can just look at it.
56. AlexSays
14 Oct 2008, 01:40 GMT
2dboy has definitely noticed the score. It's noted at the top of their site.
Good.
They should take these great scores, put them on a flag, and parade around the countryside.
It's really hard to put in to words how much their work is appreciated, so I'm really hoping they get the hint.
57. andy836
14 Oct 2008, 01:42 GMT
OMG wiipoints cards are 40% off at toysrus!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
58. shadows262
14 Oct 2008, 01:45 GMT
@andy836
U MY FURRY LITTLE FRIEND ARE FREAKING LUCKY!!!!!!
buy as many as u can
59. Koto
14 Oct 2008, 01:46 GMT
A PERFECT SCORE!? then this will be a must buy, the review is pretty great too!i haven't seen any perfect scores on wiiware before this game
60. LucBernard
14 Oct 2008, 01:48 GMT
I don't think World Of Goo is a puzzle game though, it's alot more than that. I kind of think it doesn't fit in any categories.
61. breaderer
14 Oct 2008, 01:52 GMT
Everyone should download this game, unless you disparately hate puzzle games...Its just....AMAZING!!!
62. andy836
14 Oct 2008, 01:52 GMT
@shadows262
i know but i think it applies to all toysrus in the US so check everyone
63. vampirelich
14 Oct 2008, 01:54 GMT
@andy836
my toysrus had them on sale but sold out yesterday.
just downloaded the game and it is amazing. This is the first wiiware game i've downloaded in over a month... still haven't picked up mm9.
64. Cartoty
14 Oct 2008, 01:58 GMT
omg...im getting this for sure!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I better get a wii points card tomorrow!
65. andy836
14 Oct 2008, 01:59 GMT
i managed to get two but i had to literally fight for them yes 4000 wii points for 24 dollars
66. Orgone
14 Oct 2008, 02:02 GMT
Maybe one day, but then there will be a sequel and I won't know which one to get.
67. shadows262
14 Oct 2008, 02:20 GMT
@andy836
$24 thats it for 4000 points damn!
dude here in dubuque we dont gotta Toys R us it went outta buisness o well Milwaukee HERE I COME!!!!!
68. AlexSays
14 Oct 2008, 02:29 GMT
World of Goo is already 6th on the US charts.
Looks like people are buying!
69. Finalkingdom13
14 Oct 2008, 02:39 GMT
@LucBernard
Where have you been =DD
hows eternitys child commin along ?
did you like world of goo?
70. LucBernard
14 Oct 2008, 02:42 GMT
@Finalkingdom13
World Of Goo is probably game of the year and not just wiiware I mean on all platforms, thats my opinion
71. wiikii
14 Oct 2008, 02:44 GMT
@AlexSays
That's good news, but what charts? Link?
72. Corbie
14 Oct 2008, 02:51 GMT
The Wii Shop Channel sales chart. You can check it on your Wii.
73. Kevin
14 Oct 2008, 02:54 GMT
First 10 huh? I really wanted that honor to go to Mega Man 9. Oh well, this game sounds cool. I might get it when I get more points in a week.
74. AlexSays
14 Oct 2008, 03:00 GMT
That's good news, but what charts? Link?
Well I went through a lot of unnecessary work while Corbie supplied you with the easy answer.
So check your own Wii!
I can get points cheaper at Toys R Us??
Sunday and Monday, Wii point cards were 40% off. So you could have saved a little, but it's a little late now.
75. Objection_Blaster
14 Oct 2008, 03:26 GMT
Gotta get this soon~~! Based on earlier comments I can get points cheaper at Toys R Us??
76. earthworm
14 Oct 2008, 03:50 GMT
This game is really amazing. The developers deserve to sell a ton of copies (and I predict that they will). I think it definitely deserves the 10 awarded in the review.
77. Twilight Crow
14 Oct 2008, 03:51 GMT
Well done 2DBoy! Thanks for showing what can be done on wiiware. CONGRATULATIONS!!!
The game that stood to the hype, and WWW first 10/10, I'm definitely buying this one in the future. Great review Corbie, Thanks!
78. World 1-1
14 Oct 2008, 03:54 GMT
Awesome review. Definitely checking out this game!
79. Nintendude92
14 Oct 2008, 04:23 GMT
Haha, I was gunna pass on this for a while; I planned on buying one card for tetris party. But I won 10,000 Wii points from Hudson's bomberman blast tournament, so I know what I'm downloading once the points arrive! I'll be picking this up entirely off your reccomendation, Corbie.
EDIT: I love whoever gave me this avatar! Mario is my favorite video game character of all time!
80. Corbie
14 Oct 2008, 04:30 GMT
I gave you the avatar. I do a few in my spare time for those who don't have one. I felt like the classic Super Mario Bros. was fitting.
And you'll be glad you picked Goo up. It's amazing, even my second time through the game. And congrats on the Bomberman tournament win!
81. Versus22
14 Oct 2008, 04:58 GMT
@ 51. kirk - You can send gifts from both VC & WiiWare sections of the Wii Shop Channel.
@ 68. AlexSays - 6th place? I hope World of Goo continues to sell well!
82. Fuzzy
14 Oct 2008, 05:10 GMT
Can't wait to get this game when it comes out over here!
83. Gavin Rozee
14 Oct 2008, 05:51 GMT
I'll get it if 2D boy regain their sanity and release it as a WiiWare game in Europe. They'll get so many more sales than at retail if they do.
84. WiiMan192
14 Oct 2008, 06:20 GMT
Wow. Great review. It's great to see relatively small developers have such an immense scope of concept and imagination and combining it into one hell of a game! I was expecting a ten
But I don't know what they were thinking when they decided to release it as retail in Europe. Sadly I'm not going to buy it then. They can always release the retail version AND release the WiiWare version, though.
85. that_dan_guy
14 Oct 2008, 07:39 GMT
@ Wiiman192 - I couldn't agree more. This was going to be an instant download for me, but I doubt I'll get it at our current retail prices. Even as a budget release (AUD$50 - $60) it would still be roughly 4 times the price of a wiiware version.
I wonder whether this move will pay off for them? I hope for 2D Boy's sake it does, but there would have to be a great deal of additional content before I considered buying this retail.
Also, while it appears to be a deserving 10/10 wiiware release, what sort of score would it warrant as a full priced game?
86. wesleyh
14 Oct 2008, 08:06 GMT
You can use the homebrew channel to get access to the US shop from within Europe, I did this and am playing the game now in Belgium
http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=338730
Ofcourse, on your own risk.
87. Herzlos
14 Oct 2008, 08:41 GMT
Would buy it if it would be released for WiiWare for my GF (and maybe play it myself a bit) but Retail... ... naaaah
88. Omega
14 Oct 2008, 09:59 GMT
World of Goo seems to be very good. I would immediately buy it if it would appear as WiiWare in Europe. But as a retail title? And for a higher price? No!
89. calculon
14 Oct 2008, 10:50 GMT
Sounds good, but I'm buying it over Steam. $19.99 is a steal compared to what it'll cost us in the UK, despite the loss of the extra level.
90. germania
14 Oct 2008, 11:07 GMT
This game is almost instantly one of my favourite games of all time. I'll definitely buy the 2D Boy guys a beer if I ever meet them.
91. hansolo350
14 Oct 2008, 11:29 GMT
In Canada the game is already 4th on the populare list.
92. Starwolf_UK
14 Oct 2008, 11:35 GMT
The chart positions might be a bit lower than they should be because yesterday put the Wii Shop under tremendous strain. Lots of people were getting the shop timing out on them. Come Wednesday if its anything less than number 1 i'll be ranting about people being morons for thinking 1500 points is too expensive for World of Goo but not for My Life as a King (bu..bu..but thats Final Fantasy).
Can you send WiiWare games as gifts or is it only VC games?
Yep anything in the Wii Shop can be gifted to other Wiis. the limitation is you and the reciever of the gift must be set to the same country.
I'll get it if 2D boy regain their sanity and release it as a WiiWare game in Europe. They'll get so many more sales than at retail if they do.
It's not the fault of 2D Boy. They needed a publisher a for a PC retail release and a WiiWare version so they went with one publisher. The publisher then got cold feet about Wiiware (or didn't understand it) for some reason and wanted to do a retail release.
I don't think canceling the contract completely was an option available to 2D Boy and even if it was they might have been left with no publisher in Europe and I'd say some sales is better than no sales.
The upside is the publisher might do some TV marketing for the retail release...also, I hope the publisher reconsiders their €40 price. Make it €30 so it directly competes with Popcorn Arcade, Big beach Sports and other shovelware...
93. Robster!
14 Oct 2008, 12:12 GMT
Spring 2009?! Gives me time to save up for the pricier retail version or just buy it on steam now.....what to do? Anybody played both versions and can comment on the different control methods?
94. Mayhem
14 Oct 2008, 12:17 GMT
Just as well I put 5000 points on my Wii recently, may well check this out given the score and the fact I like a good thinking game...
95. Mr.chippy
14 Oct 2008, 13:33 GMT
this game is awesome
96. Starwolf_UK
14 Oct 2008, 14:01 GMT
Good news. PC demo tomorrow:
http://2dboy.com/forum/index.php?topic=340.0
97. Yatesy
14 Oct 2008, 14:41 GMT
Mayhem64 said:
"Just as well I put 5000 points on my Wii recently, may well check this out given the score and the fact I like a good thinking game..."
Only if you plan on downloading it in America- we Europeans are being denied the chace to play it on the Wii until next year, and even then not on the virtual console, but as a retail game that'll probably cost at least £20! Not that £20 will be too pricey for a game like this, but... next year! That's a nonsense.
98. wesleyh
14 Oct 2008, 15:45 GMT
Yatesy, it's possible, read my comment # 86. Wiiware-world should make a post about this
99. Wiiloveit
14 Oct 2008, 16:08 GMT
@Wesleyh: Doing this will defect your warranty though, and so I'm neither going to try it or recommend it.
@The game: ROOOOOOOOOAAAAAARRRRRRRR!!!!!!!!!!!!! 10/10 is even better than LostWinds, MegaMan 9 and FFCCMLAAK - I didn't realise that this was even going to be that good. Right now, I am soooooo angry at 2D Boy for not giving us a release soon enough in Europe (though I do respect that it is not their fault). The next WiIWare game that's even got a chance of getting a 9 or 10 is Tetris Party - any ideas on a release date yet?
100. ALDAWGZ
14 Oct 2008, 16:24 GMT
@ corbie
i have 2 agree with you on that i didnt want it 2 end either def a very fun game 4 wiiware in the top 5 so far imo
101. turtle
14 Oct 2008, 16:26 GMT
I've played only 5-6 stages and so far, it has been really enjoyable. Very realistic game mechanics. The kind of fun I had when I first stumbled across titles like Animal Crossing, Loco Roco, etc. It's worth every single point 1500 points are reasonable to pay for such a great game.
102. Mayhem
14 Oct 2008, 17:36 GMT
@Yatesy - I have a US Wii
103. Nintendophile
14 Oct 2008, 17:54 GMT
This game deserves an 11 out of 10, honestly! I just finished it, and each and every level was amazing! They just kept getting better and better! Everyone, please, do yourself a favor and buy this game! Support 2D Boy, show them your love! We want a sequel!
104. Outrunner
14 Oct 2008, 18:09 GMT
Wish it was on Wiiware in Europe. I don't see myself buying this at retail... How much more expensive will it be I wonder and just how much extra content are we talking...
105. David77
14 Oct 2008, 18:39 GMT
The game is extremely fun and innovative, but the music is the most amazing aspect of the game, beside the physic. I think it's the best game, with Mario Galaxy, on the Wii.
106. Boringman54
14 Oct 2008, 20:50 GMT
I never thought they'd give a game a 10. I was wrong.
107. Crazynoodle
14 Oct 2008, 20:52 GMT
I still need more $$ to get this game, o well i can wait,
Nintendude92 said
"Haha, I was gunna pass on this for a while; I planned on buying one card for tetris party. But I won 10,000 Wii points from Hudson's bomberman blast tournament, so I know what I'm downloading once the points arrive! I'll be picking this up entirely off your reccomendation, Corbie."
What bomberman tourney?
108. DaVeMaN99
14 Oct 2008, 22:16 GMT
Game looks awesome, i gotta get another points card...
Oh where oh where did my money go
109. lockelocke
14 Oct 2008, 22:28 GMT
I had a suspicion this would be the first 10, I'll have to fork over the skrilla
110. Paper92
15 Oct 2008, 00:02 GMT
Looks like a fun game, but with all the other one's I'm looking forward 2 (Tetris, S&S, Bomberman) I dont think my wallet can afford another high price game!
And yes, I'm aware Bomberman is already out, i just havnt got around to buying it yet
111. David77
15 Oct 2008, 00:23 GMT
Listen Paper92, buy World of Goo before any Tetris or Bomberman in the world. You won't regret it.
112. Pocketim
15 Oct 2008, 00:36 GMT
WHAT THE CRAP?!?!?
Darn, I SO wish that World of Goo was coming to the PAL regions now =(
113. Serpent
15 Oct 2008, 01:06 GMT
This is the best Wii-ware game!!!
114. zombiekillr
15 Oct 2008, 01:39 GMT
=O... that about sums it up...
115. Nintendude92
15 Oct 2008, 03:11 GMT
@Crazynoodle- Hudson hosted a tournament for bomberman on its site. "Bomb it up Tournament/sweepstakes!"
Believe it or not, the 10,000 Wii points reward was 3rd prize! (Thanks for assuming I won, Corbie.
)
I've been assured to get these points by the end of the week, can't wait.
116. motang
15 Oct 2008, 03:36 GMT
Sounds a very fun game, buying this once I get my next paycheck.
117. Elmernite
15 Oct 2008, 04:05 GMT
I was only thinking about getting this game, until I read the review. I think I'll get it tomorrow for sure now.
Great review! Hopefully I enjoy the game as much as the review promises.
-Elmernite
118. Killraven
15 Oct 2008, 04:06 GMT
Does world of goo play much like tower of goo, in the building aspect?
because i wasn't that fond of the building method in tower of goo.
119. Corbie
15 Oct 2008, 04:14 GMT
This is what co-creator Kyle of 2D Boy had to say about the correlation between Tower of Goo and World of Goo. Apparently the building mechanism is the same.
I made this short prototype "Tower of Goo" several years ago as an experiment in just a few days. It's buggy and doesn't even run on some computers! So please don't think it's representative of World of Goo - only the basic idea was carried over - World of Goo is much more friendly, stable, and filled with delicious! - Kyle
That being said, the building mechanism in World of Goo is perfectly simple yet extremely effective in carrying out the construction of the Goo Balls that is needed to traverse the many levels of the game. I wouldn't change a thing!
120. Killraven
15 Oct 2008, 04:20 GMT
Thats good to know.
121. pagster
15 Oct 2008, 04:45 GMT
Demo is up.
http://2dboy.com/forum/index.php?topic=378.0
"Make me dirty right now."
122. mrPlow
15 Oct 2008, 07:30 GMT
Thanks for the heads up, pagster. Just tested the demo and it was great.
, double *sob*
Too bad that I (and other europeans) will have to wait until spring to get this on wiiware *sob*.
*Edit*: Damn, we are not going to get this on wiiware at all
123. GMo4824
15 Oct 2008, 09:03 GMT
def a 10/10
been waiting for a game like this on Wii since um FOREVER finally a fantastic Wii Puzzle game that just needs a Wii-Mote, 4players and wi-fi are cool I wish it had online co-op but i can see how that'd be hard.
I hope they make sequels somehow
124. PALgamer
15 Oct 2008, 09:10 GMT
Does the WiiWare version of the game have 5 or 6 chapters? The sixth chapter (moon) was going to be the exclusive for our over priced retail copy, so is this extra chapter in the WiiWare and/or PC version?
125. Dazza
15 Oct 2008, 09:51 GMT
@PALgamer - It is 5 worlds on the WiiWare version.
126. themacmeister
15 Oct 2008, 10:19 GMT
If you cannot wait until next year, and you have a PC, buy the PC version. I personally find the mouse easier to use than the wiimote anyway. I am going to buy the Wiiware version too (my Wii is offline-only, but I will make an exception for THIS game!). All up, I will have spent at least $150 on WoG (including Wii LAN Adaptor), but I would spend more, if it meant indie developers like these stayed around!
127. mrPlow
15 Oct 2008, 11:10 GMT
I would have definitely supported developers by buying this game via Steam for my PC but at steam store there was an announcement:
"We have just been informed that World of Goo will not be available in Europe until Feb/March of 2009"
Guess we'll just have to wait but anyways great to see that a small development team can achieve such remarkable results like WoG
128. PALgamer
15 Oct 2008, 11:57 GMT
Thanks Dazza for clearing that out. You know if the PC has all six chapters? Thinking on getting it.
129. Dazza
15 Oct 2008, 14:10 GMT
PC version is same as WiiWare more or less. Only the EU retail version next year will have the extra levels.
130. msephton
15 Oct 2008, 14:23 GMT
There's no way as a gamer resident in the EU, I am paying any more than £20 for this. Even if it's great, buying it will give publishers the green light to screw us over.
131. calcifer
15 Oct 2008, 14:34 GMT
Anyone know the reasoning behind the decision to not releasing this as a digital download in pal regions? And yes, if we have to pay more than 20 euro just for the extra level we are getting screwed over.
132. Omega
15 Oct 2008, 15:42 GMT
On "Amazon.de" the game can already be preordered. The Wii-Version costs 39,99 Eur. and the PC-Version 29,99 Eur. Date of release is February, 26th 2009.
133. vherub
15 Oct 2008, 16:12 GMT
the pc version is region free and available:
http://2dboy.com/games.php
134. Drake
15 Oct 2008, 17:00 GMT
Yeah, the only way to get the game now (Legally) if you live in Europe is buying it straight from 2D Boy on their site.
135. Finalkingdom13
15 Oct 2008, 20:52 GMT
I'm going to wait until next week and find out what comes out. Otherwise if i dont' like what i see next week i'm picking up World of Goo =DDD
136. Pocketim
16 Oct 2008, 01:27 GMT
Wait, World of Goo IS coming to PAL gamers! Yay! =D I thought I was never going to get it! =D
137. RocketBird
16 Oct 2008, 07:08 GMT
I just played the demo and it is awesome!!!!! It is definitely a must buy.
138. tasthomas
16 Oct 2008, 20:19 GMT
I need to give everybody a warning. I don't think that this game is for everybody. I would give it a 10/10, but I think that it is aimed at the "nerd" demographic (of which I am a proud member). However, my wife hates it; she would much rather play Bomberman Blast. It is not AT ALL an action title. People say that it is a puzzle/ strategy game using physics. I think that it would be more specifically described as mechanics rather than physics. There is no game I know of to use as a comparison. Lemmings combined with Pikmin would be the best I could do.
139. Mickeymac
16 Oct 2008, 21:08 GMT
Finally, a game that doesn't disappoint! I'll pick this up ASAP!
140. Adam
16 Oct 2008, 23:26 GMT
@: Tasthomas
Maybe it's a special kind of nerd it appeals to. I have put a couple hours into MM9's Endless mode alone probably, but I was bored with most levels and annoyed with the others about 10 minutes into the demo of Goo.
141. Corbie
17 Oct 2008, 00:13 GMT
I've read well over 500 comments on various message boards and I think of those 500+ comments I've only seen like 4 or 5 people mention not liking the game. So it must appeal to a very wide nerd demographic.
142. AlexSays
17 Oct 2008, 00:31 GMT
Maybe it's a special kind of nerd it appeals to.
Or maybe it's a special kind of nerd that the game DOESN'T appeal to.
Your idea is good and all, but I'm going with mine.
143. achillem
17 Oct 2008, 14:41 GMT
This game rocks..
Obviously i have seen this coming in my dreams..
Hope more games like this where published.
144. Dazza
17 Oct 2008, 14:50 GMT
World of Goo is officially wife friendly!
Even babies love a bit of Goo goodness!
145. Damo
17 Oct 2008, 14:53 GMT
I think she just beat my high score Daz!
146. achillem
17 Oct 2008, 16:06 GMT
aww man, how can someone beat that?
147. Corbie
17 Oct 2008, 17:29 GMT
World of Goo was worth the price just to be able to watch my wife play it. Every time her structures begin swaying back and forth, she sways back and forth with them as if that's going to keep them from collapsing. It's absolutely hilarious. I need to drag the video camera out for it sometime.
148. Serpent
17 Oct 2008, 17:31 GMT
My sister who usually isn't interested in playing any of my games is addicted to this. (she has probably played it more then me). I think this game mixes with core and casual crowds very well.
149. Yatesy
17 Oct 2008, 19:26 GMT
As someone who has a European Wii, and whose PC is amazingly poor and wouldn't be able to handle the might of World of Goo, I am devastated about not being able to play it. That I'll won't be able to play it until NEXT YEAR, and even then at more than double the price the Americans are paying for it, is really quite sickening. Anyone other Europeans thinking of boycotting it?
150. Omega
17 Oct 2008, 20:51 GMT
@Yatesy: I totally agree with you. My PC is a Pentium 2 Oldtimer with 400Mhz and 64MB Ram. Probably the PC Version will not run on it and moreover I'm not interested in PC games at all. And for 40 Eur. I will certainly not buy it. There are many other games for that price that interest me more. Nevertheless, I find it a pity and I envy the americans a bit.
151. Objection_Blaster
17 Oct 2008, 23:26 GMT
I have a new computer, so would someone who has played both tell me which controls better? Is the PC version worth $5 more? Is the Wiiware version equal in controls with good multiplayer? Thanks.
152. Luigi
17 Oct 2008, 23:27 GMT
I accidentally downloaded this game lol
153. planchitecto
17 Oct 2008, 23:34 GMT
WOG just got another 10 from nintendo world review:
http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/reviewArt.cfm?artid=17003
154. Kaluba
18 Oct 2008, 00:50 GMT
Hmmm, I don't know about this one. The music sounds outstanding, but I don't know if it's my kind of game. It has to be good though, I mean it is WWW's first 10/10. I just don't know.
155. WeeGee
18 Oct 2008, 02:45 GMT
I'd recommend it, though it's pretty hard.
156. wichdog
18 Oct 2008, 08:53 GMT
I downloaded it today before work and just played about 1 1/2 hours after work and I must say this game is fantastic! Anybody thinking of downloading this, do so right away, you won't regret it.
157. Serpent
19 Oct 2008, 02:39 GMT
@ Kaluba
You can download a demo of it on your computer and decide from that. Its the same game and its free.
158. Clayfrd
19 Oct 2008, 20:20 GMT
Does anyone know why I can't see other people's clouds on WoG Corporation? I'm connected to the internet...
159. AlexSays
19 Oct 2008, 23:30 GMT
@ Clayfrd- Clouds appear very slowly.
And I mean VERY.
You almost have to leave your game on that screen for like 10 or so minutes.
160. Clayfrd
20 Oct 2008, 01:31 GMT
@AlexSays - Weird. Ever since I got the game I was getting no clouds (except on the demo), but the very next time I visited the corporation after asking that question I got a barrage of clouds instantly. Huh.
Oh, and I beat the game, but I skipped the whole last chapter except the finale, haha.
161. Satan's Therapist
20 Oct 2008, 15:17 GMT
This is going to bomb at retail. Odd looking quirky games are much harder to market that other games that fit easily into a specicif genre group and gaming history tells us that its the more weird esoteric titles that get ignored in favour of easier to market franchises. This would be a perfect download at £10.50 but £20 plus for retail and I'll be passing on this until it turns up cheaper and then it will more than likely be pre-owned and the developers who have worked hard on this fantastic game on this will not recieve any money. It should be kept as ware wii. The publisher has really missed an opportunity here.
162. rich
21 Oct 2008, 16:37 GMT
there is no way in hell i am going to buy this as retail product - i will not pay 3 times the US download price out of principle! it might be 10/10 game but i am not going to be taken for a mug thank you. i'll wait for it to bomb and then they will have to make it available for wiiware.
163. rich
21 Oct 2008, 16:43 GMT
i think all EU gamers should boycott this game until it is made available as WiiWare - or else we risk seeing this happen with other games in the future...
164. nintendo87
21 Oct 2008, 20:13 GMT
very good game it is worth 1500 points!
165. BigKing
21 Oct 2008, 20:54 GMT
Wonderful game. Just a bit on the short side. You won't get the replay value of some other WiiWare games like Tetris Party or Bomberman.
166. Matrixneo42
22 Oct 2008, 18:26 GMT
World of Goo reminds me of Braid (for the 360) in that it's an awesome/brilliant puzzle game with refreshing innovative game play, art, and music.
167. Clayfrd
24 Oct 2008, 01:02 GMT
@Satan's Therapist - You have a point. Great games like No More Heroes have received far fewer purchases in the retail market than other lesser game. If every person who bought Carnival Games bought the far better NMH instead, the Wii (and Ninty in general) demographic might slowly start to lean back to hardcore.
168. AlexSays
24 Oct 2008, 14:38 GMT
If every sorry person who bought Carnival Games...
My brother bought Carnival Games.
I thought it was a fun game.
169. Clayfrd
25 Oct 2008, 00:56 GMT
@AlexSays - No disrespect intended, it was just the first 3rd party minigame collection I could think of. I'm sure it is fun, and I really didn't mean to offend you. I'll edit out the "sorry." Sorry.
170. AlexSays
25 Oct 2008, 05:55 GMT
It's okay. I realize it's a heavily criticized game.
The reviews aren't all bad though.
You're better off using a game like this, which nobody enjoyed.
171. Objection_Blaster
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