Couch and Controller – Ian Huntley

Movies based on video games generally suck – see any Uwe Boll movie.  Video games based on movies also tend to be pretty bad.  However, 2012/2013 managed to deliver a few games that earn their Oscar.

Marvel Avengers:  Battle for Earth

As a rule, we don’t like Kinect games at Couch and Controller – it violates the sanctity of the whole “couch” concept.  However, this one was a lot of fun.  The graphical style and sound effects coupled with the Kinect gimmick really give the feel of being in a living comic book.  The only trouble with this game is that over-enthusiastic players might get winded after a few battles.

Lego Lord of the Rings:  The Video Game

As usual, Traveler’s Tales takes their Lego game formula and tweaks it just enough so that it’s not just plodding through Lego Star Wars as different characters.  The recreation of Middle Earth in Lego format is a real treat, as is Gimli’s special ability (being tossed at things).  The addition of split-screen “free roam” during co-op play eases the frustrations found at those times when your friend is being pokey.

The Amazing Spiderman

There have been quite a few attempts at Spiderman video games, and fortunately, most of them have worked on some level.  The takeaway from this game is the combat system.  The stacking combo system is very reminiscent of the Batman Arkham Asylum/Arkham City games, and that’s a good thing.  While this game isn’t “amazing”, it is fun to play.  There are plenty of nods for comic book fans, including the opportunity to unlock entire issues of classic Spiderman comic books.  It’s definitely worth locating a used copy.