Super Monkey Ball Banana Blitz was a game that originally cam
e out for the Wii in 2006. This updated version of the game makes this game more palpable. On the Switch, it is less about motion and more about using standard controls, and I like that. On the Wii, it was a troublesome affair as it was all about the motion controls like many games of the era. Banana Blitz is a pretty standard Monkey Ball affair though it is the most ambitious. This was the last true Monkey Ball experience to grace the world since it didn’t do as they had hoped it would. Banana Blitz shows this through a few additions to the series, additions that do add a layer of fun and challenge.
Monkey Ball Banana Blitz has a true story where the monkeys are after their banana hoard. An evil pirate ape has stolen their bananas and runs away leaving them in the dust. Thus the gang jumps into their balls and heads out to right the injustice. This game plays as traditional games in the series have done but it does so excellently. The player will guide the group of monkeys down dangerous routes, gathering bananas along the way. Bananas will reward the player with points and a one-up after they collect 20. The stages do get more difficult as the game progresses, and sometimes this change is steep. It’s not always going to gradually get harder, and players need to be ready for that. There is something about the randomness of difficulty that can make this game feel like a slog, and it might not be for everyone.
This game does also take into account the position of the Switch. I found that when I was riding in a vehicle it would bounce and sway the ball at its leisure. This game can be played using motion controls, but if the player wants to simply play they will have to be as calm as possible. It does add another layer of challenge though, and I enjoy it at times. Players have the choice of six monkeys and eventually Sonic the Hedgehog. Each of these characters has their stats that can change the game. While Baby might be fast he can get knocked away quickly, Gon Gon is a heavy boy, and Ai Ai is pretty average. It’s important to choose the right ape for the job, and players might need to switch out from time to time.
Players will rush through levels with four lives to start. Completing them all in a row will net the player a challenge level. If a player loses all their lives they will need to restart to get the challenge medal. Note, do not press restart world, unless the player truly wants to restart the world, it resets the score to zero. As they progress they will eventually hit a banana collecting bonus stage and then the boss stage. This game adds a first to the series in the form of bosses. These bosses will pop up at the end of the level and aim to cause the player trouble. They can be rather difficult to take on, and each has its quirks. The third boss, for instance, will spin as soon as the player gets close, to protect himself. I had to switch from Baby to Gon Gon to even stand a chance. Bosses are an interesting twist to the formula and while they can be annoying to deal with, its much needed to change things up.
This game also has a time trial mode where players can race through the levels to get the best score. This is great for those who just want to play again and again to get the highest score. Figuring out the best routes is sure to be fun for some people, but for me, I just like to get through the levels. There are 10 minigames in this version opposed to the 50 that were in the original version. Though the 40 that are missing were cut because they were massively controlled by motion. These 10 minigames are fun and a good diversion, plus its a little party mode, and that is always a good time. Players can also challenge each other to decathlon and play through all the games in a row. See which one of the player’s friends is the best of the best. These games are quite fun but some of them might be difficult to grasp at first. The player might want to train up in party mode before taking on the decathlon.
This game also has internet connectivity in the form of time trials and decathlon. Players can go head to head with others from around the world to see who can get the best time trial score. They can also compete to see who can get the best score in the fun decathlon. It’s great for a game to have online support as it is sure to add hours of playtime to those interested. Player’s will also gain costumes as they play through this game. These costumes only change the look of the character but are another incentive to keep playing the game. Plus who doesn’t want to play as costumed versions of their favorite characters? Though sadly the costumes can’t be used in party mode.
My one big complaint about the game asides the randomness of difficulty is the countdown. If players can’t get to the end quick enough it will begin to countdown. When they fall off the stage the game will yell fallout too. While it might add to the energy of the game, it can also be a little disheartening. Yes, I understand I’ve fallen off the map, I don’t need to be reminded.
Super Monkey Ball Banana Blitz is a charming game that is sure to offer hours of fun. With a challenging story mode, minigames, and even online support, anyone who likes Monkey Ball is sure to enjoy this game. Ai Ai and the gang have lost their bananas, will the player help them get them back?
Disclaimer: A review key was provided