PixlBit

A fun little platformer that truly feels magical

Disney's mascot character starred in many games during the 16-bit console war era. One of the first was a game exclusive to Sega's Genesis. The full title is World of Illusion Starring Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck. Released in 1992, this platformer was developed and published by Sega itself. With five colorful levels, two player co-op, and a password system, the game promised to deliver that special Disney magic (and maybe a little Sega magic too). 

The story for the game goes like this: Mickey and Donald are two fledgling magicians. One day they both get sucked into some kind of magical doorway and are transported to the World of Illusion. The only way for them to get out is to find the Sorcerer and defeat him. Yes, this is a very video gamey plot, but it works. So the two set off on adventure. If you're playing one player, you can choose which character to play as, which is nice. Both Mickey and Donald are very expressive. 

The controls are simple and actually use all three of the Genesis controller's buttons. Mickey and Donald walk very slow, but if you hold the A button, they will run. However, while running you cannot jump. The B button will have them use the magic cape, which is your only weapon. It can change enemies into harmless objects or make them disappear altogether. And of course, the C button will make you jump. The controls are intuitive and never gave me any problems. 

Each level feels unique due to the different settings (forest, clouds, ocean, candyland), and the graphics are very colorful. Along the way, you can collect playing cards and candy. The level design isn't spectacular, but each level is broken into several sections so that things never become mundane. In fact, because of this, you never know what to expect next. I found myself wanting to keep playing to see what would happen next, which is a big plus in my book. I really enjoyed interacting with the different settings and characters. 

World of Illusion has some stand-out moments. In level two, there is a flying carpet section which is neat, but it's also weird. This is due to the random movements of the carpet despite your button inputs. The carpet descends quickly and pressing the buttons don't seem to do much, makind this short section not very enjoyable. However, the ocean level (level 3) is probably the most unique level because you're trapped in a bubble and cannot attack; instead you have to avoid fish, which can be tricky, but I found that this was the most interesting of all the levels. 

The bosses are pathetically easy. These include a giant spider, small versions of Pete the Dragon, a very fast-moving shark, the witch from The Sword in the Stone, and finally, the Sorcerer (who looks just like Big Pete, but never says he is). These bosses only take three to six hits to defeat. Some of the fights are underwhelming, but the shark fight is great and the final battle is a little difficult. The entire game is easy, probably because it was aimed at kids. 

After defeating each boss, you get a chest with an ancient manuscript inside that gives you a new ability, which is always connected with the word "alakazam." Mickey or Donald will automatically use this new ability when the time comes, and all you will have to do is press a button. For example, the first one is the flying carpet, so Mickey says "alakazam" at the beginning of level 2 and the flying carpet appears and takes you into the air. This was a neat way to introduce new sections of gameplay and keep the game fresh. 

As you play, you'll see plenty of familiar Disney characters and settings. I've already mentioned some as the bosses. One level has you wandering through Wonderland and the card guards will attack you along with strange versions of the Mad Hatter. You'll also recognize certain Disney designs, such as the fish in the ocean level. The enemies are also animated very well. 

The game is two player, and it's certainly more fun with a friend. This is a good game to play together because it's not hard, so you'll both probably be able to finish it. Mickey and Donald are great together; they can actually jump on each other and interact in funny ways. The music for the game is also good, capturing the feel of each level, and carrying you along with the rest of the Disney magic in the adventure. 

Final Verdict--4 Stars: Recommended

Sega's Mickey Mouse platformer is great due to fun gameplay, colorful graphics, and two player co-op. It's fun to see what the game will throw at you next, and making it to the Sorcerer at the end is very exciting. Sure, the game is easy, meaning there's not much challenge for the pro gamers, but it's still fun, and is perfect for kids. The overall game is short but enjoyable, and the ride is magical--not just Disney magic, but some Sega magic too. 

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