Review: Although it runs a little short, Lemony Snicket: A Series of Unfortunate Events is a fun-filled video game for kids. 

Based on the plot, situations, and settings of the movie, the game captures the characters and themes well. The game opens with the tempting line, "The video game you are about to play is extremely unpleasant..." Players are told right from the start that they won't find a happy ending, happy beginning, nor a happy in-between for that matter in this video game. 

Gameplay begins after Count Olaf has placed the three children in their sleeping quarters and demanded that they take care of the rats that infest his creepy mansion. Kids initially play as either Klaus or Violet (later, they get to play as the baby, Sunny, as well), and explore such areas as the Lovely Library and Uncle Monty's garden. 

Players collect items that help them create inventions that will get them out of jams, help solve puzzles, and defeat the villains, including Count Olaf himself. Inventions include such things as the brilliant bopper (used to "bop" enemies), levitating loafers, and so forth. Violet, of course, is the mastermind behind the inventions, and players need to find the items that she requests, and then assemble the invention. For example, Violet requests a screwdriver, garden hose, and a lawnmower bag in order to create a Reptile Retriever, a tool that is necessary for collecting snakes for Uncle Monty (one of the many "odd chores" thrust upon the Beaudelaire orphans!).

The game follows the basic movie plot, with plenty of side adventures, of course. Players have to deal with Count Olaf's multiple henchmen. Players navigate a hedge maze, battle swarms of wasps, repeat patterns in order to open a chest, dodge rolling barrels, gather hurricane supplies for Aunt Josephine, and other such tasks. For the most part, Sunny the baby rides in Violet's backpack, but from time to time players take on the role of the baby. This baby does some wild things! 

Players collect puzzle pieces as they play, which open up media clips from the movie.

The game is absorbing and clever, if a little short. It is fairly easy to play, making it just right for children approximately ages 9-12.

For more information, user reviews, or to buy the game, follow this link:

Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events

Our Rating:   A-

[For more information, user reviews, or to buy: Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events]

Reviewed December 2004

See Also:

• Article: Lemony Snicket Movie & Games

To Buy this Video Game:

Buy Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events at Amazon.com

Buy Lemony Snicket  at Amazon.ca