Mario Party 7

Developer: Hudson
Format: GC
Genre: Party

What friends were invented for



Number 7 rolls into town. Complete with brand new games, new board maps a frenzied 8-player option and enough multiplayer to while away the small hours. Forget this if you're on your own though. Single player mode will just reinforce the fact that you're on your own!

Basically, the Party series are souped-up electronic board games, designed for that after-hours time of the evening, when four of you can crowd round the console and indulge in karting, jumping, racing and climbing games in order to be the one with the most gold coins. Simple in theory but actually more intense, complicated, frustrating and addictive than you can imagine.

Number 7 throws up 6 new board maps on which you can participate in 86, yep 86, new mini games. Eleven of these will involves the use of the miniature microphone the game is bundled with so you'll need to get your karaoke voices in order. There's also a variety of games that let you have 8 players. This logistical nightmare means that each player takes control of just half a controller. It all makes sense if you've had one too many pre-game sherries. (It also gives you the excuse to get closer to a loved one, though you might end up falling out.)

Most of the mini games, require deft controller actions, a satisfying amount of dirty tricks a variety of players competing in each one. There are loads of variations in the games and hours of longevity with the added option of skipping the board maps altogether and jumping in for some instant multiplayer action. It's pure fun all round, you can overlook the cutesy graphics and limited sounds and just relish the social shenanigans.

Perfect if you're new to the Party formula (and have four controllers) and excellent late night entertainment with your friends. It's just a shame it isn't out in time for the Xmas season!