Although Magician's Quest Mysterious Times doesn't do anything wrong, it doesn't do anything right either. The vast majority of the game is a direct planarization of Animal Crossing and the little content added to the game to separate the two is neither very fun or well done. At best the game gives you a sense of deja vu mixed with amusement over the mash-up with a Harry Potter type setting. At worst you find yourself exceptionally bored due to the game's constant shameless ripping off of Nintendo's town simulation franchise.
Only if you really love Animal Crossing should you even consider picking up this game. In that case, and ONLY in that case, will you find a game guaranteed to delight you. Everyone else will just be counting the moments until they can trade this turkey in or sell it on Ebay.
Gamertell has posted its DS game recommendations for the 2009 holiday shopping season.
The list is divided by ESRB ratings.
Gamertell has posted a positive review of Konami's Magician's Quest Mysterious Times for DS.
From the review:
"There's only one really bad thing about Magician's Quest Mysterious Times, and that's how hard it is to find it. Unless you're buying it online, you'll experience quite a quest trying to find it in a local store.
It's just a wonderful life simulation game. I'd recommend it most to Harry Potter, Sims and Animal Crossing fans, but really it's the sort of game that all DS owners could enjoy. It has action, RPG, collection and simulation elements, all tossed into a stylish and sweet package. Plus the weekly challenges and multiple spells will keep you coming back every day."
Gamer Limit writes: "Magician's Quest has been likened many times to "Harry Potter meets Animal Crossing." In fact, I watched a video where even a Konami employee made the same connection. You go to a school of magic and learn how to cast spells and stuff, which is its likeness to Harry Potter. And, it's like Animal Crossing in the way that there's a town, and you talk to people…and stuff? Can you tell I've never played Animal Crossing?"
