The Golden Compass Image
The Golden Compass
Xbox 360
Sega
Release Date:
Also On: PC, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3
Metascore
41
Based on
25 Critics
User Score
4.3
Based on
13 Ratings
Summary Back to top
The Golden Compass follows the screenplay adaptation of the first book in the acclaimed trilogy, capturing the fantasy adventure set in a parallel world where giant armored bears rule a kingdom, beautiful witches fly through the frozen skies, and human beings' deepest essence is manifest as talking animals that remain their faithful companion for life – their daemon. Players can assume the role of Lyra, a young girl, along with her daemon Pantalaimon (Pan), as she journeys through theThe Golden Compass follows the screenplay adaptation of the first book in the acclaimed trilogy, capturing the fantasy adventure set in a parallel world where giant armored bears rule a kingdom, beautiful witches fly through the frozen skies, and human beings' deepest essence is manifest as talking animals that remain their faithful companion for life – their daemon. Players can assume the role of Lyra, a young girl, along with her daemon Pantalaimon (Pan), as she journeys through the frozen wastes of the North to rescue a friend kidnapped by a mysterious organization known as The Gobblers and winds up on an epic quest to save not only her world, but ours as well. Gamers can also take on the character of Iorek Byrnison, a great armoured polar bear who joins the quest. As Lyra, players use their daemon and collaborate with in-game characters, collecting special items in order to explore, evade, and deceive their way through confrontations with the Gobblers, the Magisterium, and the horribly dangerous spy fly to find her friend. They can also do battle as Iorek with special attacks and a riding mechanic as he protects Lyra during the journey. Gamers can unlock secrets and mini-games using a mysterious, truth-telling golden compass device called an alethiometer. Players can explore 13 vast locations, including all-new breath-taking environments not seen in the film, on this massive journey of collaboration, exploration and the eternal struggle between good and evil. [Sega]… Expand
Starring: Torgeir Hagland, David Msika, Soren Hannibal
Developer: Shiny Entertainment
Genre(s): Fantasy
Cheats: On GameFAQs
Rating: E10+
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Critic Reviews Back to top
Positive:
2
Mixed:
4
Negative:
19
78
Game Chronicles
Despite the mere average visuals and sound presentation (music not withstanding), The Golden Compass was a fun adventure and a fantastic gameplay experience that took me the better part of two days to complete.
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60
Official Xbox Magazine
There's no reason to play The Golden Compass unless the movie or book absolutely monopolizes your imagination. [Jan 2008, p.62]
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45
GameSpot
The Golden Compass is just another family-friendly film cash-in with few redeeming qualities.
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35
IGN
Even if you were completely charmed by Philip Pullman's work or enjoyed the movie adaptation, there's absolutely no reason to give this game a try. Even the music, as pretty as it is, can't redeem such poor gameplay and atrocious presentation.
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32
MEGamers
No matter how hard you look trying to find something good about this game, you won’t come up with anything. Trust me, I tried.
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30
GameDaily
The camera moves about uncontrollably, making it hard to navigate certain areas or get a lock on enemies. Do not walk in this game's direction.
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0
Game Revolution
In general, playing the game is a sinusoidal process of momentary elation as you uncover a new element, quickly followed by deep disappointment as you discover it’s a piece of crap.
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User Reviews Back to top
Positive:
0
Mixed:
0
Negative:
3
4
daredad
May 9, 2013
I picked the game up for $0.99, and the game is pretty pathetic. True, there are enjoyable moments, like fighting a tank while riding on anI picked the game up for $0.99, and the game is pretty pathetic. True, there are enjoyable moments, like fighting a tank while riding on an armored bear, but for most of the game you're stuck playing boring mini games as Lyra instead of destroying monsters. Overall, it's worth my one dollar, but not much more.… Expand
1
DaredadCrust
Sep 5, 2013
The last three letters in the title 'The Golden Compass' literally define this game. I have never played a more boring game ever. You couldThe last three letters in the title 'The Golden Compass' literally define this game. I have never played a more boring game ever. You could read my science book and be more fascinated. If you hate someone, then this is a great gift to give them. If you give this to someone as a gift, they will most likely never speak to you again. If you give it to your spouse, (s)he will divorce you and move thousands of miles away. Anyone who loves this game is really stupid and needs their brain checked.… Expand
0
Nikolai
Dec 31, 2007
Why do software developers continue to create games based upon movies? No matter how much the studio offers you to make it, just say no. Why do software developers continue to create games based upon movies? No matter how much the studio offers you to make it, just say no. Almost every single time it's a dud. Boring gameplay for a relatively decent movie. Let the movie do its own business and stop selling out to make a few extra bucks. It will lend more credibility to you to develop original games rather than movie knock offs.… Expand