Super Monkey Ball: Banana Mania Nintendo Switch Review - Is It Worth It?

"I really love Bananas" - AiAi
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#SuperMonkeyBall #BananaMania #Review

[@rotallyPumpered]

Absolutely appreciate a big outlet having such a hardcore fan to cover something like this, but also somebody who can balance that with the remit of reviewing a game for a broad audience. People often boil down a review to its final score, but there's a lot in the text here to help people know whether or not they'll enjoy the game. I've never spent too much time with the Super Monkey Ball series, and I expect I'd enjoy this release fine, but I can absolutely relate to how much a remake's shortcomings and inconsistencies can disappoint when you're so invested in the original game. I expect lukewarm reviews will put off some people who might otherwise have a great time with the game, and fuel ignorant discourse, but I really like seeing this level of insight from a longtime fan on a big site. Great work, Jon.

[@zachsteiner]

This was a great review!

[@CaptAwesumNo1Zone]

The controls to this game are broken, that is like 99% of the game is controls, all that extra crap is unnecessary if it plays like crap which it does

[@GetMadz]

I’m a little sad not to hear “everyone! Jon from NintendoLife here.” after hearing “hello! hello! hello! hello!”

[@basicbird2467]

Hi madz I love the vids, please keep up the good work

[@mattjcwig]

Same I was expecting to here lovely people from Alex 🤣

[@cammoore___]

Too true Mr. Madz!

[@mexiwolf009]

If this was Alex, I would have been even more disappointed not hearing “hheeeellloooo there lovely peeeeeople”.

[@BooomTomb]

Yes

[@DesignDoc]

While botching Monkey Target isn't a deal breaker at all for me...why is it so off? It's one of the few mini-games that really mattered in monkey ball since it was more of an extension of the main game.

[@ThatOneDudeWhoPostsStuff]

Simply the engine used. To make something on par with the original, retooling Unity's physics engine to fit the game doesn't do it. You would have to rebuild the game's engine from scratch.

[@robsmall6466]

@@ThatOneDudeWhoPostsStuff Guessing they used Unity because it was a cheap option. There is a lot to like hear but we really needed Monkey Ball 3

[@01banjokazooie]

While I was never the biggest fan of Monkey Target.. I actually had the best memories playing monkey tennis with my dad and two sisters. As long as that one and billiards is still good. I don’t mind.

[@Gamesforus1]

Its because of the ramp. The ramp portion is scripted rather than natural. as you get a really weird boost of speed. Its not horrible, but its kinda scuffed. Not the engines fault imo.

[@MudakTheMultiplier]

@@robsmall6466 unity is basically an industry standard by this point. There are lots of reasons to want to use it. Programmers already know it, adding assets is simple, it has decently robust built in physics, and so on.

[@DavidLopez-ln2ch]

You guys did a better job with this review then IGN. That was a fair review. However, we have to be very grateful that this game is releasing on PC because I can bet you anything that the modding community is going to get Banana Mania right next to the original games from physics, animations, to the target mini game.

[@derangeddonald6779]

But many who play on console won't have this option, so it's still pretty disappointing

[@jankington216]

Nah, anyone who gets the game early to review should be disregarded

[@Mike-sp7zv]

@@jankington216 why?

[@dmanagable]

I see where the review is coming from, physical movement especially momentum are EVERYTHING in a game like this, and if it's slightly off then the whole experience is off.

[@JIreland1992]

I can see people eventually adjusting to it. I remember thinking the physics in the N-Sane were off but I eventually got used to them.

[@RGozz]

Honestly I would rather have seen an emulated port than this. This also lacks the charm of the original in terms of art and sound design. I don't know why Sega has a hard on for the current designs because honestly they just suck. The surreal look of the first two games was part of the charm and aesthetic.

[@simplyrin210]

@@JIreland1992 I was thinking this exact same thing. Crash Trilogy ended up great so I honestly expect this to end up the same way.

[@sebastiangudino9377]

@@simplyrin210 Nah, crash HAD problems back in the day with movement physics. 3D platform games were basically nonexistent,so there was no frame of reference back then. And thought the years they made something better and better Sega CREATED a completely new game concept, and executed it to near perfection, and instead of i gradually improving, it seems like they just didn't get why the originals were good in the first place and made a mess instead. Now that they are trying to go back to their roots, it's hard for them to even find what their roots where. Specially when now there are fan-made games that do nail the snappy fast paced physics perfectly. This is engine's flaws are not "by design", they are sadly a limitation

[@janAkaliKilo]

@@RGozz That's in part the community problem, people are comfortable with pirating old stuff, so buying an emulator + rom for them looks like a scam. That leads many companies to release their old games, redone in new engine with few tweaks, this way they keep low-cost, nostalgia and provide minor 'improvements' for the potential buyers. P.S. I think people often forget, that all companies are machines earning money. (there's nothing bad about it, that's just how it is) In general - If people protesting high-price/low-effort release of any game, company won't lower the price, they'll spend as little money as possible to make atleast some people buy it; or if company gives up (usually for publicity), their next product won't be better, it'll be more persuasive. That's free market for ye - you can support good behaviour, but can't punish bad. That's why Activision, EA, 2K, etc. won't die anytime soon.

[@amirgarcia547]

As someone who’s never played a Monkey Ball game prior, this seems like the perfect place to start to me, since most of this review’s main sticking points seem to come from the lens of a longtime fan. Though considering how jam-packed October is in terms of game releases, I might wait a bit before picking it up.

[@adamholt5395]

100% agree. This looks really cool for a new comer to get into.

[@simplyrin210]

Im a long time fan and it looks great to me. The reviewer seems to be making a big deal out of some minor things.

[@robsmall6466]

@@simplyrin210 I guess it will depend if you played the original or not. Sega went with Unity ( probably because it was cheap ) and it wasn't the best option. Having said that Monkey Ball is such a good game fundamentally that it seems Sega have just about got away with it. Enjoy Monkey Ball if it's your first time playing or if you've played before it's great to have Monkey Ball back

[@teneesh3376]

I can relate. But hearing that controls aren't as good as they were before and a game mode being broken because of it is a huge turn off. Even for someone like me who has never played monkey ball. And since this is sega, I'm waiting a little more to hear what other things are messed up. Cause dear God sonic colours ultimate is a mess

[@japanesecinema6736]

Seriously, this is worth the money based on what I am seeing. The disappointment is coming from a small crowd of diehard gamers.

[@JoshArtisto]

I'm sad about the sound effects. One of the most nostalgic things about the original games is the sound of the ball rolling and hitting things. I'm still hype for the game, but the hype went down a little.

[@Festivus_Miracle]

They've included original character models and music via DLC or DIgital Deluxe edition, so maybe they'll add in a classic soundpack too down the road.

[@JoshArtisto]

@@Festivus_Miracle that would be amazing

[@Daniel328DT]

My hype dropped a bit because of the lack of multiplayer. I play this game a lot with friends and family. It's sad to see they did not include. Lots of people were misled because of information about multiplayer seem to suggest it would be usable in the main game.

[@Daniel328DT]

@@Festivus_Miracle Classic sound for $5? Oh boy...

[@zoelindwall637]

I think when I played super monkey ball 2 the ps2 sound effects were too loud which I think was a glitch in the original version.

[@b00psn00t]

I personally don’t care as much about the party games as the main game

[@Daniel328DT]

I mostly only messed with Monkey Race and Target. RIP Monkey Target.

[@roseways]

jon - thank you for always talking so casually about accessibility features. they’re so important for so many people, but often get missed out of reviews. appreciate it!

[@BustedSkies]

As someone who played monkey ball as like a 7 year old and hasn't kept up with the game since. I'm very excited for this :')

[@ansnfbsknanssshshbsnsndnd5438]

This game was way to hard for me as a kid lol. I remember getting so angry

[@chrisr393]

Same! Have you gotten it yet? If so, how is it?

[@JDPro-y4z]

Monkey Ball suffers from "regression to the mean". The original games were so good that it is almost impossible to ever get to that same level again.

[@srduncanbyu]

was thinking about this during the review. what an amazing thing that happened when sega made monkey ball. and recalling that the arcade game was released with a banana joystick makes the story feel all the more like a wild fever dream

[@cameronwallace8265]

Me: enjoying the video, and ready to hear about how great Monkey Ball is 1:50 hits Me: oh no

[@christophergardiner7372]

Agreed. I’m still excited though. I think Jon’s being particularly hard because he’s such a huge fan, which is fine. But as someone who hasn’t played a monkey ball since the GameCube/ds days I hope this will be great for me and most audiences.

[@cameronwallace8265]

@@christophergardiner7372 Yeah, I've never played a Monkey Ball game, so this is probably the pest place for me to jump in, but it's still disappointing to hear that it didn't live up to Jon's expectations.

[@Scrubber89]

Same, so disappointed. As somebody who loved the original 2 games, i HATE everything since.

[@sethgob5591]

I feel that this is because jon is sucha huge fan of the originals. The new features and content dont mean nearly as much to a man like jon as the core gameplay that he fell in love with all these years ago, and even the slightest of changes can seariously lead to dissapointment.

[@macmonkeyhat]

No multiplayer for the main game sounds like a big missed opportunity. I hope they add it in an update

[@fishyperil2153]

My biggest problem with the game is something I didn't see anyone mention - I think the soundtrack sucks compared to the originals. It's got that plastic kind of post 2010 mainstream electronica sound, while the originals are dripping with 90's rave goodness that gets my head bobbing immediately and puts me into a sort of a trance

[@mythosinfinite6736]

So the game's got 300 levels that work just as they should and a couple of minigames that have different physics than before? Sounds like a victory to me, honestly.

[@Thisisgood99]

He’s saying the whole game feels different

[@Thisisgood99]

So not just as they should

[@charlesw7397]

Like the other person said, the physics in the main game have the same issue. Sounds like movement doesn't have the same fun impact that the originals have (which is a huge reason people love the games so much). Mania looks a bit slow, floaty, and unsatisfying. It sounds like Jon had a good time with it but the sheer difference in physics causes the game to be worse overall. Definitely still serviceable but to hardcore fans, it loses a lot of its fun factor. All this to say, it's definitely more than just "a couple of mini games that have different physics"

[@neutralnarration1463]

bot account

[@toooydoeur]

@@neutralnarration1463 no?

[@darthwiizius]

F-zero Gx: "I'm not coming back" Monkey Ball: "Fine, I'll do it myself"

[@CinnamonOwO]

Super Monkey Ball 2 didn't show the next floor in the air too. The ramp thing It seems like the camera movement makes it feel like it's scripted, but it's not scripted, going slow shows that, the sound stuff is good for what they were aiming for, the original sounds are so satisfying and the new one is cute, which what the series is now, I like both, I bet the game will be modded to add them back

[@Daniel328DT]

Multiplayer, sound design, and the butchering of Monkey Target is really heartbreaking. I really hope they consider updates in the nearby future. It might just take away from the bitter cons the game has.

[@citrusblast4372]

Not just monkey target but ALL the minigames look pretty bad

[@krammy9goggler]

probably no real improvements in the pipeline but can we interest you in a $6.99 kuromi dlc costume

[@dennisarnold7756]

There's no multiplayer? No split screen?

[@Blt9983]

Literally one of my favorite things was reaching max speed in Monkey Ball 2 and seeing the sparks fly and hearing the ball sound speed up. It’s honestly really sad they removed the sound/effect, feels like something is missing 😔

[@lukeanthony2279]

I suddenly don't want to go get this game after reading your post. ☹️☹️☹️ Sound is just as important as graphics. Graphics ant shit if there's no sound to go with it. 🤬🤬🤬😭😭😭😭

[@Blt9983]

@@lukeanthony2279 I just went and got the OG Super Monkey Ball 2, and it’s just as incredible as I remember; like the value of Banana Mania is great but everything being so different really turns me off.

[@brianvaira486]

It sounds like this is similar to the Spyro or Crash remakes. Different enough to bother hardcore fans, but perfectly acceptable to more casual fans or newcomers. Considering that I haven't played the original since it came out, I'm still very excited for this.

[@DeeJamari]

With the huge reduction of Multiplayer games, gratefully, this would be the PERFECT time to bring back Multiplayers in Main Game!!! It's been a single player experience FOREVER now, (after Deluxe). I pray they bring it back! I miss playing on the couch as each person takes turns challenging each Floor as each becomes more difficult than the last! #MultiMainGame #MultiMainGame #MultiMainGame

[@James-gj8rn]

I’m going to get this with Metroid Dread on Monday, I’ve never played these before and I always wanted to so this is my chance even if it’s not the absolute best way to play them😊

[@bender9740]

WITH Metroid Dread? That comes out next Friday.

[@James-gj8rn]

@@bender9740 i mean I’m going to be ready to buy it but on Friday 😊

[@neonshark337]

Those are the two games I ordered as well. Though, I was tempted to cancel Monkey Ball on the switch and get the steam version....decided I would "get good" on switch, then get it on steam when it goes on sale and grab those achievements.

[@JorizzleMeNizzle]

As a huge fan of monkey ball 2, and many many many hours playing Targets with my whole family, this is disappointing news to me. If you can’t get the physics right on a physics-based game, what’s even the point? I used to love testing the limits of monkey targets. I wouldn’t even take the ramp, I would drop right off the side of the platform and open just in time to pull up, skimming the water’s surface. It was in all honesty, a thrilling experience.

[@RukoshiSensei]

No multiplayer in challenge mode? That’s like the main thing I did in the original with friends...

[@emiliofahr504]

I really hope they fix Monkey Target. That had me returning to the original time after time. Having said that, this looks like a definite buy.

[@shammahikoro8475]

I think the sound effects bug me the most out of all the critics for some reason 💀 like the original sound effects were so arcade like and adorable! Now they sound so generic!

[@IonSquared]

I mainly just miss the fast ball rolling sound effect. What were they thinking ditching one of the most satisfying sound effects in gaming?

[@frealish6622]

If the party games are the main sticking point where the main stages are as fun as ever, its gonna be an instant purchase for me. I didnt even know the original 2 games had party games LMAO

[@nicholasdiaz1925]

Agreed for the most part, but no main game multiplayer is a bizarre bummer. Even though it was just taking turns, it's not as simple as just passing the controller every round. Every players progression was individual, so some players could be multiple stages ahead of the others. Idk, it just seems weird not to have it.

[@YuseiTheSynchroHero]

I didn't play the original GameCube games but I respect where you're coming from in terms of the physics, the momentum, and the engine in question. Like, even _I_ noticed that ramp jump in Banana Mania looked SO weird... Why? Like I said... I didn't play the originals and if I picked up this game today, I'm sure I'll enjoy the game! But I think your criticisms are valid for the most part. So overall, I'm getting the impression that the overall package is excellent and doesn't feel like a cheap cash grab and can be VERY fun but isn't quite what it was back on the GameCube (including the party stuff like Monkey Target).

[@TheLonelyGoomba]

This is the only review that matters. So it's a shame it didn't live up to the originals. I'll still get it cos I love the series and I'm sure there's still fun to be had. But I could also just play the originals and have a better time, which is a shame,

[@alexalani10110]

Yeah I’m curious to see how the engines feel different. Honestly and I know this isn’t most but I never really played the mini games only main game so I’m curious to see how that feels different.

[@segaspice4062]

Make a video about this game

[@Owlgineer]

I feel like I'm one of those few people that played Monkey Ball 3D and wanted Jam and Jet in.

[@pilot_aki]

It was my first game in the series.

[@nerlam1]

If multiplayer from the main game is missing, I’m canceling my preorder. Thanks so much for this review. Man, with target and main game multiplayer dead, then I have no desire to buy

[@boogiepop4203]

Same, I’m not purchasing it anymore

[@chancekull]

Absolutely agree. No multiplayer in the main game is an instant no-buy from me.

[@moonlitlaurel8103]

I've never played Monkey Ball before. Maybe I'll pick it up to support the franchise

[@MITHYKA]

They did a phenomenal job recreating the original stages and they feel pretty great for me! But they totally botched the mini games, which is not a deal breaker for me but they really half assed them specially the low res textures and the physics to my beloved monkey target :(

[@Remz727]

Is there bosses on super monkey ball mania?

[@MITHYKA]

@@Remz727 nope, just classic style super monkey ball remade in HD

[@Remz727]

Damn, are all the courses on monkey ball blitz on mania? I know blitz has the bosses

[@skeldare]

Hopefully they'll release a patch to fix Monkey Target. Probably not, but I'd like to see it.

[@DreamCartridge]

Can someone start a petition to fix the sound effects and monkey target? I don't think monkey target has to be just like the original to be fun. I feel like they should trust the physics engine they have in place and make monkey target satisfying in its movement with what it's working off of. Idk if that's possible but the physics in the main game look good. Idk why they nerf that momentum with an animation :/

[@durzoblint6532]

From what I heard, they were aware of these issues, but I think the issue they found was the same issue that hold Jet set radio from being ported or remade. Apparently the original code that's responsible for the OG game's existence was lost to SEGA, so from deluxe onward, they had to use alternative engines to get to that level. I say with that info in mind, I would recommend bumping it up to a 8.5/10. When put behind this context it's even more impressive how close it got, but how Monkey Target was handled still holds it back from being at it's greatest.

[@poudink5791]

They can still RE the original games tho

[@durzoblint6532]

@@poudink5791 RE?

[@alexpotts6520]

It's unfortunate for SEGA, but ultimately this is being judged as a product people are spending their hard-earned money on, and you shouldn't be awarding sympathy points for developers who ran into problems during production.

[@Cysubtor_8vb]

Always wanted to play Super Monkey Ball yet never got around to it, so I'm definitely getting this one and actually may benefit from not having any of your nostalgia over the original two.

[@yubacore3369]

So besides Monkey target? Are the physics in the base levels fine? Would be really disappointed if the physics were bad across the board since I've never played Monkey Ball and I've been looking forward to this game

[@gameswithalley4362]

This game looks challenging for real and also pretty fun!

[@14vatochongo]

Oh it’s a little challenging but it’s much easier than you think

[@gameswithalley4362]

@@14vatochongo awesome I have the game but haven't tried it yet. I thought about streaming it once my capture card finally comes in the mail. So far I'm just streaming games on xbox but can't wait to crack into my nintendo games!

[@captainmega6310]

@@14vatochongo it isn't but once you get used to the game it will be

[@CVSooner777]

As someone new to the series, can someone tell me why the newer games, specifically Blitz, aren’t considered good?

[@arios6443]

Banana Blitz was originally made for the Wii's Motion Controls. It featured wider levels to accomodate and, as a result, it's now way too easy without motion.

[@netako]

@@arios6443 Also the levels on the newer SMB games are far less creative and too easy for the most part.

[@poudink5791]

Jr./N-Gage: Too many of the stages ate recycled from the first game and the controls are worse because there's no joystick. Deluxe: Nobody seems to dislike this one, but I will criticize it because a lot of its new levels are terrible mazes. Touch & Roll: Lots of recycled stages, much like with Jr. Still no joystick, but controls are nonetheless better thanks to touch screen movement. Adventure: Bad game. Bad controls. Someone at Sega must've played the rolling ball stages in Crash Wrath of Cortex and somehow thought it would be a good idea to ask Traveller's Tales to make an entire Monkey Ball game with that mechanic. Banana Blitz: Blitz has jumping, which for many people defeated the point of Monkey Ball. The game was also built around motion controls and is far too easy as a result. The fun in the original games was the satisfying feeling of speeding your way through the brutally difficult levels. In Blitz, many of the levels have very wide platforms and have guardrails. Oh and the party games are bad. The first few games had few, very polished and fun party games. Blitz instead went with quantity over quality and has a whopping 50 unpolished, one and done party games with terrible controls. Step & Roll: Balance board controls lol 3D: Too short. Heard the mini games were good, though. Banana Splitz: Heard this one was good, but never played it because it was only on the Vita.

[@IonSquared]

@@poudink5791 How did I completely forget Super Monkey Ball Adventure was a thing? Always wanted to play that one despite hearing it wasn't good

[@robertsammons1]

Blitz is decent in the remake, its not amazing and the bosses are a pain but I think it’d actually be good for a new starter because of its easier system and then move onto banana mania if you enjoyed it. The later levels however are super hard, have a check out of level 10-5!

[@_cityjunk]

"they can probably breathe but it isn't specified"

[@samuelc6246]

I only played Monkey Ball Jr, and LOVED it. I always thought about getting the other games, and this seems like a perfect opportunity. If the controls are analog, they're already better than any Monkey Ball I played and loved. Target wasn't even in Jr. There was golf, fight, bowling, and I'm not even sure if there were more in Jr, and I played that for ages.

[@TheJmack90]

So…in summary, Super Monkey Ball Banana Mania is great, but if you’re too attached to the originals, keep playing them on Dolphin

[@Daniel328DT]

And if you like playing with friends, play the originals

[@TheBestPikachuFan]

9:26 "Until Monkey Target returns to its former glory, we cannot truly say Monkey Ball is back" I'm sorry, but this statement is blasphemy to me. I'm really don't think a singular botched minigame (albeit the best one) defines what the entire series is all about. It's extremely strong wording for something only a select few people, even in the Monkey Ball community, has played only a handful of times. Can you honestly tell me with a straight face that a minigame is worth such a statement? Worth the ENTIRE name Monkey Ball? Is it really THAT important?

[@boots3372]

Yes, I honestly can tell you it's worth such a statement. I pre-ordered this game without knowing they botched Monkey Target and now I'm pretty upset. It's a big deal.

[@TheBestPikachuFan]

@@boots3372 It's really not. Y'all make it sound like you buy Monkey Ball for the single minigame and not the main game that is rolling the ball to the goal.

[@boots3372]

@@TheBestPikachuFan I was buying it for that single mini game. I know this is hard for you to understand but different people like different things.

[@TheBestPikachuFan]

@@boots3372 You're better off emulating it then. Even if Monkey Target wasn't botched, spending $40 to essentially ignore the rest of the game can't possibly be worth it when there's a free alternative. It's like buying Super Smash Bros Melee just for break the targets.

[@boots3372]

@@TheBestPikachuFan "You're better off emulating it then" No kidding, really? It's nearly like that's what sucks about it. Gee golly mister thanks

[@SodaPopBot]

Never played Monkey Ball before so I'll probably been fine. Just been wanting to get into a modern entry that hasn't been reviewed poorly, and this seems decent at least Also KIRYU GRABBING STAMINANS

[@Bschweitzer69]

Target is such an issue. It really killed the excitement. Race doesn't have the same... speedy feeling you'd get going 80 km/h. I remember FLYING through the air just to beat my siblings and now it's like "wooo" passed you? Fun. The main games feels fine. Not exact which is what you commented on it.

[@t00nbink]

God damnit, I was very excited for this to play challenge mode with my friends locally but if that isn't an option I won't be buying it sadly.

[@CheeseMaster75ok]

Same :(

[@Daniel328DT]

Definitely do not recommend buying if it's to play with others. I was completely disappointed by this, but I guess I'll just play the game solo...

[@Daniel328DT]

I would probably get Mario Party Superstars for multiplayer

[@t00nbink]

@@Daniel328DT definitely getting that, but yeah really sad, I guess we playing Super Monkey Ball Deluxe for a while

[@SheWanna69MeDoe]

whos here after the terrible ign review

[@BatcaveCrypto]

Me! 😂

[@desh206]

I love that intro so much

[@awesomeguy2009]

Best Monkey Ball game since Deluxe.

[@Daniel328DT]

Are you only saying this because it's the original games?

[@awesomeguy2009]

@@Daniel328DT I'm saying it because this is the closest we've ever gotten to the physics of 1, 2 and deluxe lmaoo

[@Daniel328DT]

@@awesomeguy2009 It looks like Banana Blitz HD. I'm not sure how they both function though. Are they using the engine similar to that game?

[@grimey3480]

@@Daniel328DT I can tell you that banana blitz just doesn't have good level design so this is a step up

[@Homerstar]

Can I just double check something, did you say that there's no multiplayer in the main game at all as in they haven't even got the taking turns mode. If so that sucks as that was the main reason I wanted this so I could play it with my brother and his girlfriend as she really loved the Monkey Ball games.

[@drummaster10]

Yes. There's no multilayer in main game.

[@summerycast7936]

How does the water looks worse in Mania for Monkey Target than in the original...

[@RAGEAlanBun]

I think if anything, it's a testament to how amazing Amusement Vision were. They only really released Monkey Ball and F-Zero GX, but both games had such amazing game engines that they struggle to get the game/animations feeling as good as the originals. I'm still really excited for this game. Monkey Target being nerfed is a bit of a pain as this was by far me and my friend's favourite mini-game, to the point that we play it every single time we meet up and get excessively competitive over it, but hopefully it can be patched in the future, or maybe it's just something we need to get used to. I remember when Crash N.Sane Trilogy and CTR Nitro-Fueled came out I initially wasn't a fan due to how it didn't perfectly recreate the original feel, and this is something that has improved over time to the point they are now my preferred way of playing these games. I hope people still buy Banana Mania. I don't think they fucked up, but rather they just didn't hit the lofty heights reached by the original game, which was always going to be hard to follow. More than that though, this represents a chance for people to tell Sega they want this style of Monkey Ball game. Hopefully they take feedback on board and release some patches etc. but only time will tell.

[@EduardoPerez-bq8qf]

I was only buying this for monkey target. My friend and I sunk so many hours on the original mini game more than the main game. Sucks that my favorite mini game got robbed. Thank you for the honest review!

[@boots3372]

Same, pretty bummed about it

[@_ryju_]

Basically Marble Blast dialed up to 11!

[@MyDogCarla]

Came here from that horrible IGN review, the quality of this review is exceptional.

[@ArcRay20]

it'd be neat if they could patch in some fixes and add back in the sounds for the ball. it seems SUPER awkward to not have the sound of the ball smacking the ground at all.

[@guitaraobscura8802]

After playing the game myself and watching multiple Monkey Ball speed runners playing it, I think Jon might have been a bit too harsh regarding the game feel. The physics are different for sure but I've noticed that even the speed runners who played 1000s of hours of the original games are readjusting and enjoying it for what it is instead of constantly comparing. They even mentioned certain stages feel better to play in this game than the original games. I do think the biggest issue is the lack of co-op and Monkey target.

[@VantaCube]

Nah, he was spot on. I’ve played monkeyball with my friend routinely for over 2 decades and this port straight up feels weird, sounds weird, and the redesign of courses either makes them harder (4-9) or easier (4-10). The mini games were absolutely slaughtered and are rendered unplayable in their current state. You can’t change to classic costumes (DLC) and even if you buy the classic soundtrack DLC some of the classic music is missing like monkeyball baseball. Trying to excuse a mediocre port is what it is: trying to excuse a mediocre port. Don’t do it

[@guitaraobscura8802]

@@VantaCube "Excusing a mediocre port" . Here is where I don't agree, this isn't a port. It's a remake if anything. Expecting everything to be the exact same as it was makes it sound like you just want a port at that point which is fine. I agree that the sound implementation for the rolling is strange but it feeling weird is probably due to those two decades of muscle memory you built up and it's just different. I've also been playing Monkey Ball for two decades and I've beaten master for 1 and 2 on the originals and this version. I just readjusted to the different physics and didn't find it that horrible. I will admit, I don't really play the minigames except Monkey Target back in the day so I can't comment on that.

[@summerycast7936]

Sound design is a big thing for me and I do own the original. So it's a pass for me. Not that I wouldn't recommend to new comers, but if they had a GameCube then I'd encourage buying the original. Emulating is an option too and cheaper.

[@maestromovesmedium931]

All in all these sound like very minor complaints, aside from the physics for monkey target. I can see SEGA adding better sound effects as an update post launch but Monkey Target is a little disappointing...

[@robharli]

_Watches other reviews and hears how good the game is_ That's REALLY good to hear! _Watches this video and hears Jon's complaints_ That's kinda disheartening to hear. I myself got into the series on Gamecube and I will admit, the 2 big draws for me were the mini-games and the physics. And while I'll still get this and hopefully have fun with it, hearing it's just not as good as it used to be makes me sad. :/

[@neutralnarration1463]

gotta be careful about paid reviews

[@robharli]

@@neutralnarration1463 One of them was Good Vibes Gaming who are independent and Patreon funded...

[@billfusion]

I hope the game gets a demo, because I heard some much about the series and I would love to play this game.

[@hardwired2]

“They can probably breath, but that isn’t specified” Well that took a dark turn

[@boots3372]

I'm really displeased that I paid for this thinking it was going to be the games I loved but remade only to find out they broke Monkey Target. I won't cancel my preorder because the main game and pool is worth it, but very disappointing. I really hope they fix this.

[@triple7marc]

7:45 The stages don’t appear in the sky in Super Monkey Ball 2, either.

[@orufus12]

"It isn't exactly the same as I remember" - The Review

[@IllusiveDev]

His points are valid criticisms especially since this game was made for the old fans.

[@WagnerKoop]

I mean, a lot of complaints on an aesthetic level are more or less unimportant and just notes for classic fans, but when it’s such a physics-centric game I think it’s super relevant to point out in what ways it’s different.

[@gummyshark93]

Wait wait WAIT! Multiplayer is missing from Main Game??? Wtf that's the only thing we do

[@Mr.Foxhat]

I know this is off topic, but this is the 10th anniversary of arguably one of the best Wii titles: Conduit 2. The Conduit was the definition of "good for a Wii game," but Conduit 2 is, in my personal opinion, severely underrated. JarekTheGamingDragon made a video reviewing Conduit 2 (and all first person shooters on the Wii) and its sad that he is the only sizable KZbin channel that has talked about this underrated title (he gives mad praise for it too.) It is High Voltage Software's magnum opus yet never is spoken of, as it lives in the shadow of the original game. I would love to see you guys give Conduit 2 the attention it deserves, even if it means only playing it. Thank you :)

[@Nate9-9]

I don't understand why you had so much emphasis on the party games. I used to play them a little, but the story and challenge modes were always what I.cared about more. Also i never liked the story mode cutscenes. I think I will prefer this change. Besides the focus of this game was never the story, it was the gameplay.

[@satan-kun8974]

You mean.. someone likes something that you don’t?? :O oooohhh myyyy gaaaaawwwwd

[@Nate9-9]

@@satan-kun8974 The party games are fine, i just assumed more people cared about the main gameplay in a review. I am sure there are different opinions out there and there is nothing wrong with that. With friends, I always played multi-player in challenge mode. Rarely the party games.

[@goosepapoose8666]

You guys have an unhealthy obsession with monkey target lol can't wait to never play target and love the game lmao

[@frealish6622]

I didnt even know it had this fan base lmao. I just love playing through the stages over and over lol

[@mashn8328]

@@frealish6622 it’s my favorite thing about the game and I have very fond memories of playing it with my family but even I was shocked at how popular it is. I guess if you had any siblings you’d be obsessed with it and if you played the game alone as a child you wouldn’t care less

[@gilesharrison4577]

Money target was the main reason I was gonna pick it up so many evenings with friends over playing target. Can't believe they have ruined it. Hopefully they will patch it

[@ant_989]

This and Metroid Dread are 2 huge releases for me this month. I don't care about monkey target mini-game. It shouldn't have so much impact on final score in my opinion.

[@segaspice4062]

Exactly

[@simplyrin210]

Well said.

[@mikeykane5938]

When you buy a remake expecting it to be close to the original but the physics are just completely different. I am pretty heartbroken. Least I’ll enjoy the story levels :(.

[@707tinman707]

Everyone please purchase this game. We need to show sega that their on the right track with monkey ball.

[@ramar2]

Main game and monkey target aside, is it still good for playing the other mini games with friends? I want to introduce my nephew, niece and girlfriend's brothers to the series, to give Mario kart and Party a break for a while, but don't want to have to unlock everything playing by myself first...

[@spinballwhizzkids]

Fantastic review. I'm a little sad about the sound design and disappointing monkey target minigame. :(

[@statesminds]

I just realized this series is made by same people as Yakuza.

[@RetroBritishGamerUK]

I don't remember ever playing Monkey Target as a child. Billiards and bowling on the other hand.... I'm excited for this, and at £25 it was a no-brainer for me.

[@adiz81]

Honestly, the only reason why I got this game was cuz the deluxe edition had the option to use the classic soundtracks in game (I k ow I could purchase it separately but i feel the deluxe would be a better option)

[@MasterFallenHero]

The end part "Unity" is really what makes me hesitant to pick this up. The first game was near perfect and the 2nd one really dragged its feet but was a good sequel. I'll probably snag this on a holiday deal for like 20 bucks.

[@gilolaes4725]

Hm...so are the physics off in the "not what the old games are" way, or do they legitimately seem scuffed even removed from those originals?

[@DN2Percussion]

How is the offline multiplayer? Not the minigames, base game

[@sethgob5591]

Oh... im sorry. You didnt hear? That is the one BIG problem this game has. Its... gone.

[@DN2Percussion]

@@sethgob5591 WHAT.

[@sethgob5591]

@@DN2Percussionyeah...

[@DN2Percussion]

@@sethgob5591 So you're telling me I can't go through the 300 levels and pass the controller to my friends sitting next to me...? That's the ONLY way I wanted to play monkey ball...

[@RulerMichael]

@@DN2Percussion I bought 2 version of this game for this reason alone. If this is true, we're playing the OG GC versions come midnight tomorrow instead O__o

[@TurboPikachu]

I was afraid the engine wouldn’t be quite right. I still love Monkey Ball and this game will still be one of my top 3 games of the year, but it’s super disappointing that it’s going to feel off the whole way through like Banana Blitz HD did…

[@VanillaVictini]

The physics are this game's BIGGEST problem, especially when it comes to dealing with sloped or curved surfaces. It's like you're on butter... the original just did it so much better.

[@TheInfinityMaster1]

Best thing they added in the new version is...... *JUMP!* (I don't care if you really need it or not, it simply DRIVES ME CRAZY when I can't jump in any game. lol)

[@JonnyMoto]

I hope the devs attempt to fix some of these issues

[@R.Williams]

While I absolutely respect this review, I wonder how often sequels are judged through the nostalgia lens. I didn't grow up with games and when I play retro game that were considered the pinnacle of perfection, I often find them clunky and not that fun. I did play Monkeyball on the GameCube and really enjoyed it but obviously don't have the memory that others seem to have for details. Maybe because I played as an adult and it was retro even then. It was a really fun game but this one would probably be just a fun to me. I wish I did have that nostalgic view though because it sounds like a lot of fun!

[@summerycast7936]

The one thing that jars me a lot compared to the original I played as a kid is the sound design. No joke, when the ball reaches 200mph, it REALLY does sound like it with the full of friction and speed until you come to a stop. That gradual sense is lost here, which is really jarring cause a lot of games implement that sound design according to how fast you are moving. Overall, still a solid game. They just botched the sound design.

[@nebiyumeseret]

The game looks great! I played so much Monkey Ball on the gamecube and it’s great seeing this back! I can tell some of the mini games were a bit off as you mentioned (especially the momentum of going off ramps). I don’t think you were being over critical and you are someone that is passionate about the series and you want to see it as best as it can be This game is for sure on my list :)

[@zatchbells]

banana mania is my first super monkey ball game and i love it so much i cant put it down just for the sheer amount of fun i am having

[@JVeg199X]

Glad you touched on the importance of lives and game over in this type of game. It’s not “artificial difficulty”, it’s to prevent the player from getting frustrated by challenges they are not ready for and to encourage them to really learn the mechanics. Otherwise, the game would have to play it safe and basically not challenge the player at all, which is unfortunately what even Nintendo does these days…

[@stefc309]

I have this preordered and ready to go, but have been wondering how much I will notice the negative changes Jon has mentioned. I played a lot of SMB 1 and 2 back when they were first released but haven’t played them for many years and not played any other games in the series. The sound effects don’t sound great, but I wonder whether the game will instantly feel off, or if having not played it in almost 20 years I won’t really notice.

[@johnkerkalis6310]

You won't notice if you haven't played them for so long. I haven't anyway.

[@patrickramseyart]

It's been so long since I've played Monkey Ball, I don't expect the physics to bother me as much. It's definitely unfortunate that it isn't "the definitive Monkey Ball", though. But at the end of the day, I'm excited for this game. The monkeys make me happy. And with how taxing art school has been, goodness knows I need that. Yoho, my friends.

[@senorpato3587]

It´s not 1:1 to how I remember it being...7/10. -The review

[@IonSquared]

A heads up to people disappointed with the movement: for some reason, turning off camera control seems to bring it much closer to the original. Shame that we can't have both, but you can go to options anytime to change it back on for the levels/sections of a level when it's more needed. Now why can't they add the option to switch the music between classic and the new tracks at any time (instead of only from the main menu)? That might be my current biggest complaint, hah.

[@Ryanmiller70]

Love the review. I'm still really excited for the game since I've only played one of the GameCube Monkey Ball games (can't remember which one) and I didn't play it for very long since the Wii was in the family room at the time and I just didn't have much time to really dig into it. Plus being able to just turn my Switch on and play without having to dig out wires and controllers like I would with my Wii just sounds like a more appealing option for me.

[@oirampm]

I just bought it today because i found it in walmart at 14 dlls and i really enjoyed playing again monkey balls and to remember monkey ball 2 was so great

[@WarriorOfTheLostLand]

I actually really enjoyed Banana Blitz, though that was the first and only Super Monkey Ball I’ve ever played. So I know I’m going to enjoy this.

[@benchesh]

A free camera completely nerfs the original challenge. Disappointed

[@zachb4561]

Digital Deluxe is almost here, this will be my first Monkey Ball experience and I'm so excited!!

[@seanpaints]

I appreciate the attention to Monkey Target, as it is truly the best mini game of the bunch. That animation when you get launched is so off and jarring

[@supersmashmaster43]

It’s hard to remake something that was already perfect. I’ll probably still get this game, but sounds like some of my concerns I had for this game are true, like the physics being floaty.