The Golden Compass

 Wii
The Golden Compass Image
Metascore
35

Generally unfavorable reviews - based on 12 Critic Reviews What's this?

User Score
6.8

Mixed or average reviews- based on 6 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 12
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 12
  3. Negative: 10 out of 12
  1. Nintendo Gamer
    65
    Jumping, fighting and puzzling for young fans of the movie. Most of it is incredibly easy but there's the odd bit of confusion to slow progress.
  2. N-Europe
    60
    Poor graphics and simple game-play detract from what could have been a great film-game conversion.
  3. 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.
  4. IGN
    35
    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.
  5. Cheat Code Central
    34
    This game is clearly a rushed mess, and perhaps should have taken a nod from the Superman Returns video game and not been released until The Golden Compass inevitable DVD release.
  6. Game Informer
    33
    It pains me to say this, but turn off your TV and just read the book or head to your local theater. This is a story everyone must experience, just don’t try interacting with it.
  7. Game Revolution
    0
    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.

See all 12 Critic Reviews

User Reviews

Write a Review
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2 out of 4
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 4
  3. Negative: 2 out of 4
  1. ArloS.
    Jan 27, 2008
    10
    This game is by far the best in my collection. Lyra may have a cheesy accent, but she is a pretty lovable protagonist. Beating off wolves This game is by far the best in my collection. Lyra may have a cheesy accent, but she is a pretty lovable protagonist. Beating off wolves with Iorek that just don't quit never gets old. Don't let the rating scare you off. BUY THIS GAME!… Expand
  2. EmileaE.
    Jan 10, 2008
    10
    This game is too be enjoyed by all . It is a great adventure game.It is quite hard for the younger children .
  4. FrankE.
    Jan 31, 2008
    4
    Extremely poor control of characters on Wii made solving jumping puzzles tedious and unnecessarily hard - destroyed the experience.
  5. KikBlava
    Jun 2, 2008
    0
    First off, the N64 can handle these god awful graphics, the motion sensing controls are mind blowingly terrible, and what's gold about First off, the N64 can handle these god awful graphics, the motion sensing controls are mind blowingly terrible, and what's gold about it? If you really want to know how bad Golden Compass on the Wii is than look no further than hell itself.… Expand

Awards & Rankings

89
#89 Most Discussed Wii Game of 2007