| Voltron: Defender of the Universe | |
|---|---|
| Developer(s) | Behaviour Interactive |
| Publisher(s) | THQ |
| Platform(s) | PlayStation Network, Xbox Live Arcade |
| Release date(s) | PlayStation 3 November 29, 2011 Xbox 360 November 30, 2011 |
| Genre(s) | Arcade Adventure, |
| Rating(s) | ESRB: E10+ |
| Media/distribution | Download |
Voltron: Defender of the Universe is an action adventure game based on the Voltron television series, developed by Behaviour Interactive and published by THQ.[1] The game was released on November 29, 2011 for the PlayStation Network and released on November 30, 2011 for the Xbox Live Arcade. The game allows players to play as all five of the lions from the series. Original clips and voice overs from the show as well as remastered music is also be featured in the game. Starting in November, Voltron Force aired on Nickelodeon in the US and tied in to a pair of action-figure lines from Mattel.
Voltron: Defender of the Universe is played primarily as a twin stick shooter. During most levels players control one of five Voltron lions. The lions are equipped with multi-directional cannons, controlled with the right thumbstick, while the left thumbstick coordinates movement. Each lion is equipped with pounce and melee attacks. Each lion as features a unique special attack and individual strengths and weaknesses. These levels consist of both ground and space-based levels, with only secondary controls changing between the two environments.[2]
Also featured during ground-based levels is a feature known as Survival Mode. This mode is activated when a lion takes too much damage. The player character is ejected from the cockpit and must survive for 10 seconds while the lion repairs itself. During these sequences the character is equipped with a blaster and must survive on foot, using the same multi-directional gameplay mechanics as when piloting the lion. Once the 10 seconds have elapsed the player character can re-enter the lion's cockpit and resume normal gameplay.[2] Players can also find collectible items throughout the level which can provide their character with an extra life or additional, temporary features such as enhanced firepower.[2]
During boss battles the lions merge to form the Voltron robot. Gameplay during these sequences is turn-based and also relies on quick time events. When playing with two or more players control over the robot is passed to the next player once the previous player's turn is complete. A sequence begins by choosing one of four attacks, after which a quick time event occurs. During the enemy's turn players can defend by performing a similar quick time event. Once the enemy's health is emptied a final event occurs in which Voltron forms its Blazing Sword to dispatch of the villain.[2]
The game was unveiled at San Diego Comic-Con, which included a Voltron panel. As part of the game’s promotions, there was a Voltron scavenger hunt that took place at the convention. The scavenger hunt entitled, “The Hunt to Form Voltron” had participants use their smartphones to find the five Voltron lion stands and their corresponding QR codes. At each stand, participants received an exclusive button and a chance to win a variety of collectible prizes from THQ, Mattel, WEP, Viz Media and Classic Media including: a 92-inch flat screen Mitsubishi television, an Xbox 360 console, classic Voltron action figures, Voltron retro t-shirts and DVDs.[3]
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