The Golden Compass

 PlayStation 2
The Golden Compass Image
Metascore
46

Generally unfavorable reviews - based on 10 Critics What's this?

User Score
5.3

Mixed or average reviews- based on 7 Ratings

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  • Summary: 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 asThe 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
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Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 0 out of 10
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 10
  3. Negative: 5 out of 10
  1. Official Playstation 2 Magazine UK
    60
    Not a disaster, but sorely lacking in polish. It is riddled with problems and takes too many liberties with the franchise. [Christmas 2007, p.98]
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  2. PTGamers
    60
    Short and yet boring, doesn’t bring anything new to the table and doesn’t even accomplish what it ought to. Only the biggest fans of the material will take some enjoyment out of this game.
  3. Playstation Official Magazine UK
    50
    Playing as either character simply isn't much fun. [Jan 2008, p.114]
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  4. PSM3 Magazine UK
    45
    A crushing disappointment for fans of the book and film. Oh, and gamers generally, too. [Jan 2008, p.76]
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  5. GameSpot
    45
    The Golden Compass is just another family-friendly film cash-in with few redeeming qualities.
  6. Gamer 2.0
    42
    There’s not really much more to say about the game other than just ranting about our horrible experience with it. Surely, that would bore you, our respected readers. We’re actually somewhat sorry that you’re being exposed to this game in the first place. Please, look elsewhere for gaming if you want to do yourselves a favor.
  7. IGN
    35
    Even the music, as pretty as it is, can't redeem such poor gameplay and atrocious presentation.

See all 10 Critic Reviews

User Reviews

Write a Review
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 0 out of 2
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 2
  3. Negative: 2 out of 2
  1. ManuP.
    Dec 16, 2007
    1
    Licence games have gotten better lately, but Golden Compass throws them back to the 90s. Straightforward, simple, boring. Some decent Licence games have gotten better lately, but Golden Compass throws them back to the 90s. Straightforward, simple, boring. Some decent graphics in the action parts.… Expand
  2. OhPoop
    Jul 11, 2008
    0
    This game was terrible. The gameplay was ridiculous and boring. First off it starts from the middle of the story as a sort of tutorial,This game was terrible. The gameplay was ridiculous and boring. First off it starts from the middle of the story as a sort of tutorial, which was...playable I suppose. However, after you finishes the so called tutorial level, you are thrown back to the beginning of the story, where the game becomes absolute garbage. The gameplay becomes lame and unplayable, making you want to press a gun to your temple and pull the trigger within seconds. It's E.T. the game all over again folks. You have been forewarned.… Expand

Awards & Rankings

70
#70 Most Discussed PS2 Game of 2007