Short, Quirky and Fun
Similar to most games that come from other mediums Tale Spin lacks something that makes the game really stand out. Based on the television show, you play the character Baloo (and occasionally Kit) as he delivers his cargo.
Flying your ship around each level you collect various items and tokens earning money towards upgrades. At the end of each level you are able to upgrade your plane or buy lives and continues. The upgrades remain in effect one purchased so the better weapons become indispensable as the game progresses.
The game is remarkably short, it seems to end nearly as soon as it is started. The levels have some challenges but nothing to severe. This is good since there is no way to continue, no password or saved game file. It is also worth the effort to complete the levels to 100% since the extra money allows upgrades quicker.
The game has some of the better graphics for its day and bright colors designed to keep the eyes entertained. I am sure the younger player will delight in the look of the game keeping in tone with the cartoon. Certain levels have hidden areas where you can shoot open a secret area in which you take control of Baloo's younger sidekick, Kit. The Kit missions are much harder since the screen moves constantly forward preventing all but the most skilled (not I) from getting all the balloons.
Overall the game plays similar to most games aimed at a younger audience. It has basic controls and allows nearly anyone to pick up and play at any stage of the game. It has an interesting use of level design, in that you can turn the plane around in most parts and go back through parts of the level. This is a definite turn away from most side scrollers where going back is strictly verboten. Good game if you have a couple of hours and want to beat something, actually complete a game in no time.
