Rugrats: Search for Reptar was a PlayStation game released back in 1998, and believe it or not, it was actually one of the titles that caused many people to take notice of the console. During the '90s and early 2000s, Rugrats was a very well-known Nickelodeon cartoon that just about everyone watched. Kids loved it, teens loved it, and even adults loved it; it was one of the few cartoons the entire family could enjoy because it addressed topics that many modern shows still tend to avoid.
The show, unlike many contemporary cartoons, featured story progression that allowed viewers to see characters develop over time. It also dealt with mature themes such as death and childbirth. The show stayed grounded in the real world, yet the creators managed to keep it child-friendly without offending anyone. The series was also well-received by Christian and Jewish families alike, particularly for its holiday specials. In short, Rugrats was nearly the perfect family cartoon and was loved by many, so it was only natural for a video game to be based on the franchise.
In today's world, when you hear the words "TV" or "movie" next to the word "game," most people assume it is going to be poor. The sad truth is that video game companies often use film licenses as a way to make a quick buck, and the games typically do not turn out very well. They often end up being rushed or limited by the film's plot, frequently resulting in a standard, uninspired platformer. While this is not always the case, it is certainly a common trend. Thankfully, Rugrats: Search for Reptar was not created in today's climate. Still, does that mean it is actually a good game? Let's find out.
SEARCH FOR REPTAR (baah baah):
Rugrats: Search for Reptar opens just like a Rugrats cartoon. The game features a digital version of the show's iconic opening sequence, and when the gameplay begins, it transitions into the well-known episode title screen. From the very start, it is clear that this is a true Rugrats experience and not just a game trying to imitate the style.
The story of Search for Reptar is quite simple and begins much like a standard episode. The babies are at Tommy's house playing as usual, and Tommy is stomping around the living room pretending to be everyone's favorite dinosaur, Reptar. "Where's my Reptar puzzle!?" he roars as he stomps over to a toy Reptar. Inside the toy are the pieces to a jigsaw puzzle; however, it seems Tommy has lost all but a single piece. Although he is saddened that his puzzle is missing, he decides to set aside his feelings, go on an adventure, and find the missing pieces!
While the overall story is basic, it serves as a gateway to many other narratives. Search for Reptar is not just a single new adventure, but rather a collection of the babies' most famous escapades from the TV show. Every level is based on an episode, and each has its own plot, from finding Grandpa's dentures in "Grandpa's Teeth" to trying to restore light to the world in "Let There Be Light!"
Just like in the cartoon, these episodes are divided into "real-world" stories and "imaginary" adventures, maintaining a solid balance between the two. In the real-world scenarios, Tommy and his friends engage in everyday activities, such as playing hide-and-seek. In the adventure levels, they embark on fantastical journeys, such as exploring an alien spaceship. For the most part, these plots mirror the original episodes, though your direct control as a player introduces some slight differences. Either way, if you have watched the show, you likely already know what to expect from the game's storytelling.
The Gameplay:
The gameplay in Search for Reptar changes based on the task at hand, so I will focus on the fundamentals for this review.
Controls
The controls are straightforward. You move with the D-pad, jump with the X button, and walk slower with the Square button (remember that this was before analog sticks were standard for this type of movement). The Circle button allows you to pick up or put down objects, while Triangle is used to throw items and enter levels. You can also use the L and R buttons for camera control. While these are very basic mechanics, they work well. The movements feel a bit stiff and dated by today's standards, but they still get the job done.
The House
The most significant aspect of the gameplay is Tommy's house. This level of environmental detail is something you don't typically see in modern licensed titles, and at the time, it was a dream come true for many fans. Tommy's house serves as the game's hub world, and you can explore every inch of it. All the iconic locations from the cartoon are accessible, allowing you to walk through the same rooms you saw on TV.
Just like in the show, the house is comprised of several familiar rooms. There is the living room with the playpen (which can be opened or closed without the use of a screwdriver), the kitchen with the laundry room, the backyard, and the hallway and office area outside the kitchen—which also houses the front door and the stairs to the basement and second floor. You can also explore the basement, the upstairs, Tommy's parents' room, Tommy's room, Grandpa's room, the guest room, and the bathroom. As I mentioned, nearly every room from the cartoon is present, and you can finally explore them for yourself.
Interacting with Objects
A major aspect of Search for Reptar is the ability to interact with the environment. You can pick up toys and objects, essentially playing with almost everything you see. Much of the house is interactive, and sometimes you are required to use objects to complete levels. For example, in "Let There Be Light," you must use flashlights to scare off "Shadow Monster" ghosts. While older players might overlook this feature, it is something children will likely enjoy, making it a worthwhile addition to the game.
Mini-Games
Several levels in Search for Reptar are designed as mini-games. While some are not worth playing more than once or can be frustrating (such as the circus levels), others are quite engaging and may keep you coming back. The Ice Cream Mountain stage is a standout; it allows you to play through a series of mini-golf courses and is genuinely fun. In addition to supporting multiple players, it works well as a single-player experience. I personally found myself returning to it often, and it was a game I frequently played with my parents as well.
Reptar Bars
Similar to many platforming games from the '90s, Search for Reptar includes hidden collectibles in the form of Reptar Bars. These bars are scattered throughout the world, and collecting them allows you to unlock hidden bonuses.
A Game Everyone Can Beat
While there is a wide range of levels in Rugrats, the game is designed so that almost anyone can finish it. Although your options are limited early on, many levels eventually open up, giving you the freedom to choose which ones to play. You do not have to complete every level to collect all the puzzle pieces, which ensures that even younger children can reach the end of the game. It is a clever design for a children's title that allows just about anyone to enjoy the experience.
90s Nick and Fan Service:
Although the levels themselves provide plenty of fan service, there is actually a wealth of additional "fan service" hidden throughout the entire game. First of all, the game starts with the classic "nick-nick-nick-nick-nick-nick-nick, Nickelodeon!" transition short. Furthermore, the levels and loading screens utilize the iconic "baah-baah" sound effect and display the traditional Rugrats episode title screens. There are several other nostalgic touches scattered around as well; however, a few specific details really stand out, even for a game of its time.
Even though this game was released before the first Rugrats movie, there are small nods to the film hidden throughout. In Tommy's room, you can find his "big boy bed," which he began using after Dil was born. In the basement, you will see blueprints for the Reptar Wagon and the Dactar glider hanging from the ceiling. These small details serve as excellent Easter eggs and are a wonderful form of fan service.
Should you play it?
If you look at Rugrats: Search for Reptar from the viewpoint of a child or a long-time Rugrats fan, you will see that the game was actually quite amazing for its time. It allowed you to enter the world of the show, offered hours of gameplay, included everyone’s favorite characters, and featured a wide range of gameplay styles. It is a solid children's title and a high-quality licensed game that you can replay over and over again. The music was great, the experience was filled with fan service, and it was simply a very nice PlayStation game; however, that does not mean it is without its problems.
By today's standards, the game is very dated. The 3D models highlight the limitations of the PlayStation hardware, the controls often feel stiff, and the camera can be problematic. Additionally, some levels are frustrating and better left unplayed, while a few others feel lazily designed. If you missed out on it the first time, you likely wouldn't want to go back and play it now, though it was actually quite good for its era. Times have changed, and since the show has been off the air for years, it is unlikely that modern audiences would find much appeal in it today.
If you are a die-hard Rugrats fan, you might want to check it out for the nostalgia, but otherwise, this game is better left alone. While the design is very dated, it remains a notable title for what it achieved at the time.
VERDICT: Recommended
Reviewed on PlayStation
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