In a world of edgy and violent games, every now and then it’s nice to see a friendly little adventure game.

Star Island, by Agame.com, is a refreshingly warm game that’s family friendly and easy to pick up. It features really simple, cutesy art, and colorful level art and backgrounds. While the art isn’t top notch, it’s still quite pleasant, and colorful enough to appeal to kids of all ages.

The sounds are rather basic, which only compliments the overall simplicity of the game, and the music is just so cheerful and upbeat you can’t help but feel a little happy (goths and emo kids may want to avoid this game).

The goal is simply to roll around and collect 5 stars in each level, which allow you to knock open the path to the next level. The gameplay is really simple… you roll and you jump. This basic control makes the game easy to keep up with, but the twists and turns the levels put fourth make it feel a little more advanced than it actually is.
Unfortunately, that’s as advanced as this game gets. There are no hazards until around the 5th level, and even then they are all rather easy to avoid. By the time the game begins to pose any challenge, you are bored with it.

This game’s heart is in the right place. It’s got fun controls, and a solid feel, but would be dramatically improved with more hazards, better level puzzles and perhaps a few powerups that alter the way you control the rollie guy.

I would really recommend this game for younger kids, and novice gamers. For anyone with any real gaming skill, this game is probably a pass.

[ Play Star Island ]