Your favorite DreamWorks animated characters are ready to race! Stars from films like Shrek, Madagascar, Monsters vs. Aliens, and How to Train Your Dragon are hopping into go-karts in this ironically pedestrian kart racer (3DS version reviewed here).

Everything about this game is typical of a cartoony kart racer. You have your selection of playable characters, such as Shrek, Fiona, and Donkey from their movies. Also Alex, Marty, and Skipper from Madagascar, B.O.B. the blob from Monsters vs. Aliens, and Hiccup and Toothless from How to Train Your Dragon.

The tracks are also from the movies as well, such as Shrek’s swamp, the island of Madagascar, and Dragon Island. The pickup weapons are typical kart racer stuff, and include speed boosts, shields, and homing bombs. At least the weapons do make reference to the films as well, such as the frog balloon. Each character has their own special ‘Star Move’ they can use when they collect enough stars on the track, but some moves are more useful than others. There are also hidden DreamWorks logos to find on each track, too.

Unfortunately, the gameplay falls flat, at least in the 3DS version. Other racers are way too brutal, even on the easiest difficulty. And the frame rate is so choppy that it affects how you drive and use weapons. It’s a shame, too, because one thing they did get right is the humor of the movies. Each character has their own funny quips as they race, and King Julian the lemur is the announcer. It’s almost worth getting to the next race to see what they have to say next! But if you want a GOOD kart racer, you’re better off waiting for Mario Kart 7. Maybe the other console versions are better?

Kid Factor:

DreamWorks Superstar Kartz is rated E for Everyone with an ESRB descriptor of Mild Cartoon Violence. Characters can use silly weapons to make other racers spin out, but that’s about it. Reading skill is helpful for the menus, but kids (and even adults) may get frustrated at the difficulty and under par racing.

In the comments section, let me know what YOUR favorite DreamWorks animated pictures are!

Tags: Game Reviews