Nintendo Switch’s latest release, WarioWare: Move It!, has garnered positive reviews for its simple and silly fun gameplay. Developed by Intelligent Systems, this fast-paced party microgame series takes full advantage of the Nintendo Switch’s motion control-based activities and the Joy-Con controllers’ features to create a fun and engaging experience.
The game’s premise revolves around Mario’s rival, Wario, and his friends winning a holiday to a remote vacation resort. Each player is given their own Form Stones, which closely resemble the Nintendo Switch Joy-Con controllers. Players must participate in microgames, short and fast-paced minigames that increase in speed as you progress, using different Forms to complete the tasks.
Throughout the story mode, players are introduced to various Forms such as Choo Choo and Knight, each requiring different movements and positions of the Joy-Con controllers. The game provides clear instructions before each microgame, allowing players to easily understand what actions to perform. Whether imitating a car’s windscreen wiper or adjusting their arms to block a giant nose’s nostrils, players find satisfaction in the fluid and immersive gameplay.
WarioWare: Move It! bears similarities to the 2006 game WarioWare: Smooth Moves on the Wii. However, Move It! takes advantage of the Nintendo Switch’s advanced motion controls, allowing for unique and quirky poses like Ba-KAW!. The game also impresses players with its use of the infrared sensor on the Joy-Con controller, which accurately detects hand gestures and displays them on screen.
Despite its enjoyable gameplay, Move It! can be overwhelming for newcomers who are not familiar with the different Forms introduced in the story mode. The game lacks clear instructions between microgames, making it challenging for new players to understand what actions to perform within the limited time given. Additionally, the introduction of button inputs alongside motion controls adds another layer of complexity and confusion for players.
Nevertheless, Move It! showcases the innovative use of the Nintendo Switch’s hardware. The Hand Model Form, where players use gestures detected by the infrared sensor, and the inclusion of Joy-Con wrist straps for certain microgames provide unique and enjoyable experiences. These features contribute to the game’s overall fun factor and make it appealing for group play.
On the downside, accessibility is a significant issue in WarioWare: Move It!. Although the game offers options for specifying right or left-handedness and alternative instructions for different Forms, there are no further customization options for the controls. Some Forms, such as Squat, At Attention, and Big Cheese, require players to be in a standing position, limiting accessibility for players who cannot stand or have mobility limitations.
Overall, WarioWare: Move It! offers entertaining and engaging gameplay for those willing to invest time in learning its various Forms. However, its control scheme and lack of accessibility options may hinder some players from fully enjoying the experience. Despite this, the game’s innovative use of the Nintendo Switch’s hardware and its emphasis on multiplayer party fun contribute to its appeal.
