Review tylerisrandom 5/5 · Jan 5, 2020
Like a video game Criterion Collection
I remember as a child playing an Aladdin demo at the Genesis kiosk in Toys "Я" Us. I jumped on a camel, which made him spit at an enemy, causing said enemy's pants to fall down: Comedy gold for a grade schooler, and the closest thing to an interactive cartoon I'd ever experienced. Between that and the unabashed 90s cool …
I remember as a child playing an Aladdin demo at the Genesis kiosk in Toys "Я" Us. I jumped on a camel, which made him spit at an enemy, causing said enemy's pants to fall down: Comedy gold for a grade schooler, and the closest thing to an interactive cartoon I'd ever experienced. Between that and the unabashed 90s cool of Sonic, my choice of 16-bit console was locked in.
Revisiting the game today exposes a few more rough patches than my younger self would have observed... or it would, if it weren't so lovingly presented in this collection. Not only do I gain modern features like save states, rewind and invulnerability (if I so choose), but I can play a new "Final Cut" mode that improves the game's camera and other small details. I had a blast playing this version!
But the team at Digital Eclipse didn't stop there. They added the handheld port, a playable early trade show demo, achievements, and behind the scenes video and artwork. This is honestly the coolest historical re-release I've played since Kirby's Dream Collection (or maybe even Sonic Jam).
I have a lot less love for The Lion King, a game I find beautiful but nearly unplayable regardless of platform. But this is where the collection's "watch" mode comes in handy, allowing you to witness a playthrough without suffering through its baffling puzzles, unclear platforms and relentless enemies. How thoughtful!
Individually, I'd rate Aladdin four stars and The Lion King two. But as a compilation, this sets a new standard in my collection. If you have interest in the history of either game, I highly recommend it.