Should you buy LEGO DC Super Villains for Xbox One?

Is LEGO DC Super Villains for you?

In a world where the Justice League has gone missing, it's up to Joker, Lex Luthor, and other infamous DC villains to step up and stay vigilante in order to stop a new gang of criminals in town, dubbed the "Justice Syndicate", from taking over.

LEGO DC Super Villains is easy to learn and master, making it an approachable title for players of all ages. But if you're looking for a challenge, you won't enjoy it much. Otherwise, LEGO DC Super Villains is a great game that will win you over with its engaging levels, humor, and custom character creator.

Pros:

• Gameplay is excellent and approachable.
• Great humor.
• Lots of customization depth.

Cons:

• Lack of challenge.

The good: Gameplay, writing, customization

Like every other LEGO game, DC Super Villains is a linear level-based adventure that uses simple mechanics: every character has a basic attack, a movement ability, and a special ability. This works perfectly with the focus on super villains, as each character has unique powers and tools. Want to play as Harley Quinn and bop baddies with an oversized hammer? Go for it. See a large group of foes and need some extra raw damage? Switch over to the gigantic Clayface. Aside from the occasional moment where a specific character is needed to progress through a puzzle, you're free to play as whichever villain you'd like — including your own custom one.

This custom villain creation mechanic is possibly my favorite thing about the game. Not only can you completely customize your villain's look, but you can even give them unique powers. This drove my creative spirit, and I came up with some pretty fun ideas. I'm sure the Justice Syndicate wasn't planning on losing to a purple man in his underwear that can shoot lightning out of his eyes.

Lastly, the levels that you take these characters into are simple yet free enough that you can always find fun ways to use the entire cast of playable characters. The writing behind the game's cutscenes within the levels is also excellent and filled with genuinely funny tidbits that fit seamlessly with the standard LEGO tone.

The bad: Lack of challenge

The only drawback to LEGO DC Super Villains is the fact that the game is never really a challenge at any point. For some, this isn't an issue, but I prefer it when games try to make some tough points that require some skill to get through. It is worth noting, of course, that the obvious demographic LEGO is aiming for is children. While I would have liked to see more challenging parts in the game, it's arguable that it would make the experience less fun for kids.

Should you buy LEGO DC Super Villains?

LEGO DC Super Villains is a fantastic addition to the LEGO series that, while lacking any meaningful challenge, more than makes up for it with superb customization, a great variety of characters, well-designed levels, and enjoyable humor.