Common Sense Media Review
By Chad Sapieha
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Frenetic action with constant but mild fantasy violence.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Play
Videos and Photos
Kid Icarus: Uprising
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 3 parent reviews
Based on 21 kid reviews
Kids say that this game is a fantastic blend of humor, engaging storylines, and varied gameplay, though they note that the controls can be tricky at first and might require adjustment for left-handed players. While many appreciate the comedic dialogue, captivating characters, and exciting music, concerns are raised regarding certain content that may not be suitable for younger audiences, including mild violence and suggestive references.
- engaging story
- humor and dialogue
- tricky controls
- content concerns
- varied gameplay
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's It About?
The original Kid Icarus for the Nintendo Entertainment System and its Game Boy Advance follow-up represent an odd case of a game property that has reached near-mythical status among players despite remaining dormant for more than 20 years. That changes with Kid Icarus: Uprising for Nintendo 3DS, a fast-paced action game that puts you back in control of Pit, a winged, angelic creature fighting against the evil, fantastical forces of Medusa. Players spend half their time in the air, fighting flying enemies in on-rails sequences that have kids dodging incoming attacks and firing their magic bow. The other half of the time, they're on the ground, where they have an opportunity to use Pit's sword to take down earthbound baddies while sprinting through castles and courtyards. Players also collect new weapons, powers, and collectibles along the way, and have a chance to battle each other online or in local area network play.
Is It Any Good?
There's much to love and hate about Kid Icarus' long-awaited return. It looks great. The aerial sequences feature gorgeous scenery, and the special effects surrounding energy bursts and explosions are a delight. Also, the aerial battles are wonderfully satisfying. Players are rarely given a break as they blast through countless waves of foes, listening to pleasant, bantering dialogue along the way. It's instantly engaging.
However, the controls are physically uncomfortable. Players use one hand -- their left -- to bear the full weight of the 3DS (your right hands is busy wielding the stylus to aim on the touch screen), as well as control movement via the thumbstick and fire weapons with the shoulder button. It's exhausting. In a telling sign, the game actually comes with a stand -- which defeats the purpose of a mobile game -- so you can give your poor hand a break. Related, the ground missions don't live up to their airborne counterparts, thanks largely to the controls. Dashes and dodges are difficult, and camera control is awkward. There are moments of brilliance, but, all things considered, it wasn't worth the 20-year wait.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about playing games online with strangers. What steps do you take to keep yourself safe? What would you do if you thought you encountered someone dangerous while playing a game online?
Parents can also ask their kids whether they enjoy games that focus solely on fighting, or if they prefer other elements -- puzzles, dialogue, and exploration -- to be mixed in with the action.
Game Details
- Platform : Nintendo 3DS
- Subjects : Language & Reading : following directions
- Skills : Collaboration : cooperation , Self-Direction : achieving goals , Thinking & Reasoning : decision-making , strategy
- Pricing structure :
- Available online? : Not available online
- Publisher : Nintendo
- Release date : March 23, 2012
- Genre : Action/Adventure
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Adventures
- ESRB rating :
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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