Fuzion Frenzy's presentation doesn't help matters. The mini-games show signs of being rushed, with a poor choice of colors and camera angles that can't be adjusted. The characters lack personality, relying on basic stereotypes instead of acting like actual people (the strong guy, the sassy girl, etc.). The announcer emerges as the only real noticeable character in the game, who looks like something yanked out of Elton John's closet in the year 2050, with distracting colors and outlandish light-up shoulder straps. He sounds even worse, constantly yelling out commentary during each multiplayer match. Even though players see their characters taking damage on-screen, the announcer still feels compelled to remind them of it constantly. Character voices run this same tired route, saying uninspired lines at the end of each mini-game. Bland rock tunes do nothing for the game either -- players should crank up their custom soundtracks instead.
This sequel does shine in two departments -- achievements and multiplayer. Achievements can be earned quite easily in the game by completing tournaments. Off-line wins earn players 50 points, while Xbox Live tourneys double the reward at 100 points each. A persistent player should be able to add all 1,000 achievement points within the matter of a weekend.
With multiplayer, up to four people can jump into quick games or tournaments. Players adjust the number of rounds, whether they want a quick 2-round game or want to knock all six planets out in one try. The game fully supports Xbox Live as well, so players can comb through the service looking for prospective opponents. However, gamers may play something else after a few boring sessions. With more worthwhile games like Uno and Texas Hold 'Em available for a much more affordable price, Frenzy's lame mini games look terrible -- especially when the package costs $50.
Fans of the original Fuzion Frenzy and other party games may want to give this a rent. Everyone else will probably take part in a contest to see who can return it to the game store the fastest.
Final Score: 4 (out of 10)
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