More Than Words

For a game that revolves primarily around words, Big Kahuna Words sure has a lot going for it. Aside from being a fun spelling game, it boasts three different gameplay modes, including a multiplayer mode, as well as an extensive level editor. The same level editor, in fact, that was used to make the game!

Presentation 101

This product follows the first rule in having a fantastic presentation: voice acting. Having a voice-over in your presentation is a sure-fire way of making your game seem both professional and well worth somebody's time. Now, I'm not saying that voice acting ensures that a game will be good, I'm simply saying that it shows that time and care went into production. If a company isn't willing to spend their time making their product top-notch, why should I waste my time playing it? Aside from the fact that it's an obnoxious surfer voice that is as grating to me as nails on a chalkboard, the makers of the game (Reflexive) deserve a round of applause for showing us that they care.

The game also boasts some pretty catchy music. I normally don't care much for the simple tunes that can be found in these types of games, but it had me tapping my toes, and definitely set the right mood.

To top it all off, the visuals in Big Kahuna Words are pretty easy on the eyes. They're among some of the best I've seen and the fish look pretty darn amazing.

I can't say I was surprised by all this, though. I've played a number of Reflexive games, and they can cook up some good stuff.

On To The Gameplay

The gameplay that can be found here is pretty standard, but that's not to say that it isn't good. You're given a random assortment of letters, in which you must pick out valid words. The letters must be adjacent to be included in the word, but the word itself can go in any direction. You can also swap letters, by simply clicking on one and dragging the mouse over an adjacent letter that you wish to swap with. The longer the word is, the more points you get.

You can play relaxed mode, which you let's you play without a time, and therefore stress-free. If you work better under pressure, you can fire up action mode, which will really test your speed-spelling skills and you race against the clock.

In Mouse Party mode, you must have two or more mice connected to your computer. This option allows for several players to play at the same time. You can either go head-to-head, seeing who can rack up the bigger score, or play cooperatively and help each other finish the level.

A Treasure of a Game

Those looking for a good spelling game have found their Holy Grail. Big Kahuna Words not only offers great spelling fun, but many extras as well. There's even a mode where you can see all the fish that you've unlocked. There's a lot of good times to be had!