The Kore Gang is a 2009 3D platformer and action-adventure video game developed by Comad and published by Game Factory for the Nintendo Wii. The game was initially conceived much earlier, with development starting around 2000 for the Nintendo GameCube under the title Kore by the German studio Pixonauts, before undergoing a long and troubled development cycle that included planned versions for Xbox and ultimately culminated in its Wii release.
Gameplay
The Kore Gang is a traditional 3D platformer with elements of action and puzzle-solving. Players control Kiku and Mao, two alien siblings who become trapped inside a powerful robotic suit named "Kore." The core gameplay revolves around switching between the three forms:
- Kore: The combined form, offering balanced abilities for general exploration, combat, and traversing most environments.
- Kiku: The agile and nimble sister, capable of faster movement, higher jumps, and accessing smaller spaces.
- Mao: The strong and powerful brother, able to push heavy objects, break certain obstacles, and engage in more robust combat.
Players must strategically utilize the unique abilities of each form to navigate levels, defeat enemies, solve environmental puzzles, and collect various items. The game features a hub world from which players can access different levels, each filled with platforming challenges, enemies, and boss encounters. Combat involves basic attacks and special moves unique to each form.
Plot
The story follows the alien siblings, Kiku and Mao, who are inadvertently sucked into a mysterious robotic suit called Kore. This suit is the only hope for the galaxy as it stands against the nefarious "Kore Gang"—a group of super-villains led by the mad scientist Dr. Afandi, who plans to conquer the universe with his army of machines. Kiku and Mao, now merged within the Kore suit, must travel across various planets, battle Dr. Afandi's minions, and ultimately foil his plans to restore peace to the cosmos. Along the way, they uncover the secrets of the Kore suit and their own destiny.
Development
The development of The Kore Gang was notably protracted and complex. It began around 2000 as Kore for the Nintendo GameCube by Pixonauts, aiming to be a flagship title for the console. Early previews showcased impressive graphics and ambitious gameplay. However, due to financial difficulties and changes in publishing agreements, the GameCube version was eventually canceled.
Over the years, the project resurfaced occasionally, with talks of an Xbox version, before finally being revived for the Nintendo Wii. The game underwent significant changes during its long development, including shifts in visual style and core mechanics. The final Wii version was developed by Comad, a German studio that took over the project. Its extended development period meant that by its release in 2009 (Europe) and 2010 (North America), some aspects of its design and presentation felt dated compared to contemporary titles.
Reception
The Kore Gang received generally mixed to negative reviews upon its release. Critics often praised its colorful graphics, varied character abilities, and ambitious scope for a Wii title. However, common criticisms included:
- Controls: Often described as clunky or imprecise, particularly for platforming sections.
- Camera: A frequently cited issue, with a sometimes uncooperative or poorly positioned camera hindering gameplay.
- Difficulty Spikes: Some reviewers noted inconsistent difficulty.
- Dated Mechanics: Due to its long development, many elements felt like holdovers from earlier console generations.
Despite its flaws, some reviewers found enjoyment in its charming character design and its attempt to deliver a classic 3D platforming experience on the Wii.