OlliOlli
By Chad Sapieha,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Fun skateboarding game is loaded with real-world stunts.
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OlliOlli
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What’s It About?
OLLIOLLI is a side-scrolling skateboarding game with a retro vibe that lets players take on the role of a skilled skater who works his way through dozens of courses filled with stairs, railings, and other objects that he can grind and leap over while performing real-world tricks. Each level comes with its own set of objectives, including specific tricks to carry out and score targets, but all you need to do to advance to the next level is complete the current one without wiping out. An optional tutorial provides the basics on movement, and a trick dictionary accessible before each level provides details on how to carry out particular tricks. After working through amateur competitions in five locations, players can engage in an equal number of professional events in the same environments. Once a level has been unlocked, players can play it again with an aim to achieving a high score that will be posted on an online leaderboard.
Is It Any Good?
OlliOlli's old-school, pixelated graphics may recall those of classic 8-bit and 16-bit skating games -- such as those in EA's 1980s-era Skate or Die series -- but its play mechanics are brimming with modern complexity and nuance. Deft flicks and twists of the thumbstick are required to carry out challenging maneuvers with split-second timing. It's simple enough that rookies should be able to clear most levels without spending hours learning every single trick, but those who put in enough practice will eventually be able to link dozens of grinds and tricks, earning very high scores.
Of course, players who can't be bothered to learn all the tricks will have significantly less fun. The complex controls -- though eventually empowering for experienced players -- aren't very easy to learn and may turn off some players. Still, it's safe to say that avid gamers with a passion for skating will have a lot of fun with this one.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about sports safety in games like OlliOlli. Some sports require protective equipment. Others are safely enjoyed only after you properly prepare via stretches and exercise. What measures do you take to ensure you don't get hurt playing your favorite sports?
Discuss the differences between professional, amateur, and casual athletes. Athletes competing at different levels have varying skill sets. Why is it important to understand your personal limits?
Game Details
- Platforms: Mac, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita, Windows
- Pricing structure: Paid
- Available online?: Available online
- Publisher: Devolver Digital
- Release date: July 22, 2014
- Genre: Sports
- Topics: Sports and Martial Arts
- ESRB rating: E for No Descriptors
- Last updated: August 25, 2016
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