Skylanders Trap Team Traps

2 min read 13-12-2024

The Skylanders franchise, known for its innovative blend of toys-to-life gaming and imaginative storytelling, reached new heights with Skylanders Trap Team. Released in 2014, this installment introduced a groundbreaking gameplay mechanic: the ability to capture and play as villains. This review will explore the game's unique features, its strengths, and areas where it could have been improved.

The Allure of the Trap

Skylanders Trap Team's core innovation lies in its titular Traps. These physical toys, resembling translucent portals, allow players to capture villains encountered in the game's various levels. Once captured, these villains can be “trapped” in the portal and then used as playable characters in the game itself. This added a thrilling layer of strategic depth, transforming foes into formidable allies. The satisfying click of the Trap and the villain's unique power-set made the capture mechanic remarkably engaging.

A Roster of Rogues

The roster of capturable villains was extensive and diverse, featuring iconic characters from the Skylanders universe and some truly memorable new antagonists. Each villain possessed unique abilities and combat styles, offering players a wide array of choices for their teams. The variety ensured that each playthrough felt fresh and exciting, encouraging experimentation and strategic team building.

Beyond the Trap: Standard Skylanders Gameplay

While the trapping mechanic was the star of the show, Skylanders Trap Team retained the core gameplay elements that made the franchise so successful. Players navigated colorful levels, solved puzzles, and engaged in action-packed combat, all while collecting and upgrading their Skylanders team. The game's level design was generally well-executed, offering a good mix of challenge and exploration.

Graphical Improvements and Enhanced Storytelling

Skylanders Trap Team boasted improved graphics and a more engaging storyline compared to its predecessors. The visuals were vibrant and detailed, bringing the world of Skylands to life in a more immersive way. The narrative, while aimed at a younger audience, was well-paced and featured memorable characters.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its innovative gameplay and engaging storyline, Skylanders Trap Team wasn't without its flaws. The sheer number of Traps and characters could feel overwhelming for some players, and the pricing structure of the additional toys was a point of contention for many. Additionally, some players found that the difficulty curve was inconsistent, with some levels proving unexpectedly challenging.

Conclusion: A Triumphant Entry

Despite its minor shortcomings, Skylanders Trap Team remains a significant entry in the franchise. Its innovative trapping mechanic fundamentally altered the gameplay, offering players a level of strategic depth and replayability unseen in previous installments. The diverse roster of villains, coupled with the satisfying act of capturing them, provided an engaging and exciting experience that cemented Skylanders Trap Team's place as a high point in the series. It remains a solid and entertaining title, especially for fans of the franchise and action-adventure games.