Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Kim Possible: Kimmunicator delivers a classic platforming experience on the Nintendo DS, embracing a fixed‐perspective 3D design reminiscent of titles like Klonoa. Players guide Kim through a series of linear stages, using her arsenal of acrobatic moves—double jumps, backflips, roundhouse kicks—to dispatch enemies and evade hazards. The controls feel responsive, with the D‐pad and face buttons providing precise movement and attacks, though the static camera angles occasionally make judging distances tricky in later levels.

(HEY YOU!! We hope you enjoy! We try not to run ads. So basically, this is a very expensive hobby running this site. Please consider joining us for updates, forums, and more. Network w/ us to make some cash or friends while retro gaming, and you can win some free retro games for posting. Okay, carry on 👍)

As you progress, you’ll collect computer chips scattered throughout each stage. These chips serve as the game’s currency, rewarding exploration and replaying levels to find hidden caches. Visiting Wade’s portable “Gadget Shop” allows you to exchange chips for upgrades—grappling hooks to reach higher platforms, shock gloves to stun enemies, and more—adding a light RPG element that encourages strategic use of resources and gadgets.

In addition to the main platforming segments, Kimmunicator leverages the DS’s unique hardware by sprinkling in two distinctive mini‐games. The parachuting challenge requires you to blow into the built‐in microphone to keep Kim aloft as she descends through a lava‐filled chasm, while the hacking puzzle puts your stylus skills to the test as you trace circuits without crossing the wrong wires. Both diversions break up the action nicely and showcase creative use of the handheld’s features.

Graphics

Graphically, Kim Possible: Kimmunicator adopts a bright, cartoon‐inspired art style that faithfully captures the look and feel of the Disney Channel series. Character models are well‐crafted, with Kim, Ron, Dr. Drakken, and Shego instantly recognizable and animated with smooth, exaggerated motions. The visuals retain a cel‐shaded charm that stands out on the DS’s modest screen.

The level designs range from tropical jungles to frozen caverns and high‐tech lairs, each rendered with vivid color palettes that help differentiate environments. Textures are relatively simple—unsurprising given hardware constraints—but pop nicely against the bold outlines. Some stages feature minor pop‐in when the camera angle shifts, but it rarely disrupts gameplay.

Mini‐game screens are crisp and clear, with the lava cavern’s fiery hues and the glowing circuit board both presented cleanly. The heads‐up display remains unobtrusive: your health bar, chip count, and gadget icons are easy to read without cluttering the action. Overall, the graphics excel at immersing players in Kim’s world, even if they don’t push the DS to its absolute limits.

Story

The narrative thrust of Kimmunicator revolves around the kidnapping of Wade, Kim’s loyal techno‐geek, by the madcap duo Dr. Drakken and Shego. From the opening cutscene, the stakes feel personal: Kim must go undercover and infiltrate a series of increasingly dangerous lairs to uncover Wade’s location. Fans of the show will appreciate the familiar banter and callbacks to the series’ humor.

Encountering quirky villains such as the penny‐pinching Frugal Lucre and the genetically obsessed DNAmy injects variety into each stage, with themed enemies and level hazards reflecting each antagonist’s personality. Lighthearted dialogue plays out in brief voice clips and text bubbles between missions, keeping the pace brisk and the tone faithful to the television series.

While the overarching storyline is straightforward—rescue Wade, foil Drakken’s scheme—the game peppers in small surprises, like discovering hidden data logs and bonus missions that expand on the world’s lore. The climax at Drakken’s secret hideout offers a satisfying showdown, though seasoned platformer fans may find the plot predictable. Still, it’s a well‐executed narrative that ties each level together neatly.

Overall Experience

Kim Possible: Kimmunicator offers a solid adventure for both younger players and longtime fans of the animated series. Its mix of tight platforming, collectible‐driven progression, and creative mini‐games culminates in an engaging package that feels tailor‐made for the DS. The difficulty curve is approachable, with ample checkpoints and health pickups to ease newcomers into the action.

Despite its many strengths, the game occasionally stumbles with camera angles that obscure platform edges or sudden enemy spawn points that can lead to unexpected damage. Some stages feel a bit on the short side, and once you’ve collected every chip and unlocked all gadgets, there’s limited incentive to revisit beyond completionist goals. However, the charm of the characters and the faithful depiction of the show’s universe give the title strong replay appeal for fans.

For prospective buyers, Kimmunicator stands out as one of the more enjoyable DS platformers tied to a licensed property. Its polished presentation, varied gameplay mechanics, and colorful design create an overall experience that’s easy to recommend—especially for those seeking a family‐friendly action platformer with a dash of Disney flair. Whether you’re a die-hard Kim Possible enthusiast or simply in search of a well-crafted handheld adventure, Kimmunicator delivers entertainment worthy of its spy-girl star.

Retro Replay Score

6.7/10