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Band of Bugs

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8.7 User Score:

Mixed or average reviews

Based on 15 critic reviews
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Based on 8 votes
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Game Info

Publisher: NinjaBee

Developer: NinjaBee

Genre(s): Strategy, Action

Players: 8

ESRB Rating: E (Everyone)

Release Date: June 20, 2007

Summary

[Xbox Live Arcade] Maal is an unhappy bug who needs structure and a purpose in his life, so he joins the royal army under the tutelage of the battle-hardened mantis warrior Tiernan. Now, he must begin his quest to save the Queen and the kingdom. NinjaBee's Band of Bugs puts you in Maal's shoes ... er, footpads, and sets you in the middle of a fast-playing, accessible, tactical strategy game designed specifically for Xbox LIVE Arcade. This turn-based tactics game expands the genre by providing a unique Level Editor, allowing gamers to create levels and play them online with friends. One of the few turn-based tactics games available, Band of Bugs provides gameplay deep enough to be satisfying to established fans of the genre, but friendly enough to appeal to all types of casual gamers. The game includes a story-based campaign and stand-alone missions as well as several unique multiplayer modes: Elimination, Escape, and Capture. The game has fifty levels, but also features a Level Editor allowing you to design custom scenarios and play them solo or over Xbox LIVE with your friends. [Microsoft]

Cheat Codes & Hints: GameFAQs

Also On The Web: Official Website

What The Critics Said

All critic scores are converted to a 100-point scale. If a critic does not indicate a score, we assign a score based on the general impression given by the text of the review. Learn more...

Console Monster

Overall, anyone who enjoys turn-based strategy games should definitely give BoB a go, as for 800 MS points, you really get a lot of gameplay for your money.

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Official Xbox Magazine

These standalone levels may not compare to a proper game of chess, but they have the same sort of vibe, and that makes Band of Bugs challenging and addictive enough in its own right. [May 2007, p.80]

Official Xbox Magazine UK

Refreshingly unique. [July 2007, p.104]

Xboxic

The game is perhaps the most complete experience to be had on the Arcade yet.

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ZTGameDomain

Fans of casual pick up and play mechanics will likely find the learning curve a bit too steep for their liking, but if you invest the time to learn the ins and outs there is plenty of fun to be had here.

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Team Xbox

This is a turn-based strategy game through and through, so fans of the genre will likely have a great time with Band of Bugs. However, if you don’t like the pacing or style of gameplay found in this type of game, your best bet is to avoid the game.

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Eurogamer

Niggles aside, Band of Bugs is another solid addition to the increasingly well-stocked Live Arcade line-up, and although it's not the most astounding or original title, it's got the sort of charming pick-up-and-play feel that you want from a cheap, casual game. Definitely one to check out for fans of Advance Wars.

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Game Almighty

Quite entertaining. It’s not going to be enough to draw in new fans to this type of gameplay. Let’s face it – this is a love it or hate it genre.

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Gamers' Temple

Band of Bugs is not a bad game in and of itself, but its appeal is limited by its simplicity.

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Talk Xbox

If you love turn-based strategy-styled games, then by all means, download Band of Bugs. But, for the casual gamer, I recommend to stay away. There’s not enough enjoyment to warrant the time and/or Microsoft Points.

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GameSpot

The charming visuals may hook you in, but Band of Bugs is too simplistic to be addictive and too frustrating for players looking for a casual strategy fix.

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IGN

Band of Bugs is a success in just about every category, except the most important one. The feature set, most notably the level editor, visuals, sounds, and wit all work and work well. Unfortunately for fans of turn-based strategy games, the gameplay won't hold up to the standards we're all used to.

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Worth Playing

It looks quite nice, and a lot of the basic features work exceptionally well. Unfortunately, once you start getting into the gameplay, you can't help but feel that something is missing. If the game had a more developed campaign mode or a wider variety to its basic design, it could have been a smash hit. As it stands now, however, it feels empty and basic.

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Xbox World 360 Magazine UK

Decent strategy game with a peculiar theme. Cartoon insectoids? The kids don't tend to play turn-based strategy, unfortunately. [Sept 2007, p.96]

X360 Magazine UK

As far as strategy goes, it's pretty simplistic stuff. [Issue#23, p.98]

What Our Users Said

The average user rating for this game is 8.7 (out of 10) based on 8 User Votes

Note: User votes are NOT included in the Metascore calculation.

Mike N. gave it a9:
Some games make you mad because they are addictive, but this game is addictive for a VERY good reason - it's fun. Really fun. Quick paced, strategic, witty, pretty, and inexpensive. What more could you ask for?

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Band of Bugs

Game Info

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What The Critics Said

What Our Users Said

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