Odama (GameCube)

The objective is simple. Get a mystical bell (plus bell crew - strange guys wearing only nappies) from one side to the other using troops and a pinball (or Odama). Achieving that is less simple. Indeed, for the first time in probably 10 yrs i actually had to read the instuction booklet - a sure sign that this isn't a game you'll have played before in another disguise.

It is this uniqueness of gameplay which on one side is a fairly simple pinball and the other a fairly simple strategy game that makes this such a joy. Although the two concepts behind Odama are simple it is by no means easy. This game is hard, but because of an uncomplicated control system your free to spend your time thinking tactics. And even though the game will beat you again and again (and in my case - again!) you'll want to come back to it, because its so interesting and, well, weird.

This is a game that has clearly been thought about, indeed loved by its creators and this is shown in its highly polished finish. From beautifully drawn dragons in the instruction booklet to blades of grass blowing in the wind on the battlefield. It looks like the game was painted by an artist.

Perhaps the biggest concern is the use of a mic to issue orders on the battlefield. Again, like the rest of the controls its simple and it works. It even adds atmosphere and again keeps the controls simple so you can focus all your attention on the weirdness.

There really isnt another type of game to compare Odama to. Its probably going to be a bit like Marmite - you'll either love it or hate it. I for one hate Marmite but love Odama.

If your not looking for an 80 hr epic, but a game that you can play for 10 min or 10 hr and fancy experiencing some Japanese madness thats wonderfully crafted both artistically and technically then you should definitely check this one out.


A bold experiment   April 1, 2006
 1 out of 1 found this review helpful

Welcome to a review of Odama, the new pinball-RTS published by Nintendo. I won't go into too much detail, and you'll have to look elsewhere for a breakdown of the controls, but if you just want a general overview then read on.
The first thing to be noted about this game is that it is absolutely a product of Japan. All speech is delivered in Japanese (with English subtitles), and cutscenes mainly consist of woodcut-style stills. If that alone turns you off, this may not be for you. However, for those intrepid and willing enough to leap the cultural hurdle, this game offers many rewards.
The action takes place in 16th Century Japan, and whilst there is a servicable story, it's largely present to provide a justification for bombing a giant ball around a medieval battlefield, so on to the action. The strategy and pinball elements are well balanced for the most part, and the ability to give microphone commands is well integrated - on which note, the voice recognition seems to work very well. Strategic options include the ability to reinforce with infantry or cavalry, launch rice balls to sustain your troops or distract the enemy, and discover alternate routes to victory. Victory is acheived by guiding your "Ninten Bell" (don't ask) to the enemy's gate. Whilst on its way there the Bell acts as a sort of mobile bumper (pinball, remember?). Pickups are collected, enemies are crushed by your ball, and it's all very exciting.
As I say though, this is an experimental game, which means that you have to take the bad with the good. The various gameplay elements can become overwhelming at times, and there is an factor of randomness in some victories and defeats. Pinball-haters especially should maybe steer clear, as despite the unusual setting and other bells and whistles, one wayward ball can still end your game.
Despite the shortcomings, however, I think that for sheer force of originality - coupled with an occasionally inspired game experience - Odama deserves these four stars. Not great, but definitely good.