They escape from New York's Central Park Zoo, encounter a crew of plotting penguins and land on the exotic island of Madagascar, where the friends each learn unique skills that help them work together to survive in the wild.

Gamers must master each animal's individual survival skills to tackle obstacles and foes in various scenarios, many of which are lifted from the movie.

The game closely follows the plot of the movie. It starts with Marty turning 10 years old and experiencing an identity crisis.

A brief interactive tutorial introduces a player to all the characters at the zoo and the game's mechanics.

Escaping from the zoo late one night, Marty reaches Grand Central Station and attempts to catch a train to a destination thought of as 'the wild' - Connecticut.

Alex, Gloria and Melman try to bring Marty back to the zoo. But they all end up being captured and put on a cargo ship that is hijacked by penguins trying to get to Antarctica.

The real fun starts in Madagascar, an island off Southern Africa.

The friends discover the unknown by roaring, racing, spinning, sneaking, solving puzzles and exploring their way across the strange environment, which is also inhabited by other animals and zany characters - some of which are exclusive to the game.

There are 11 action-packed chapters or 'levels', which are sometimes broken up into many sections. These levels offer a variety of things for a player to do, including some decent combat sequences and item-collecting missions.

The game lets players discover their true animal instincts, as the four main characters show off their special abilities. Alex the lion, for example, uses his loud roar, brawn and pouncing ability to remain the king of the lot.

As the game progresses, each player can add new abilities to their character by finding 'special ability' cards.

Players also need to pick up silver and gold coins along the journey. These are used to purchase things, such as new outfits for the characters, and help unlock powers such as getting an extra life.

There are also engaging mini-games such as Tiki Golf and Lemur Rave, bonus items for players to enjoy.

The game is a visual treat, with its spot-on lighting effects and lush background detail. The sound effects and music all project the comedy set-up of the animal friends' adventures.

Although it is designed for kids to enjoy, Madagascar The Game will make you feel you do not need to see the movie to enjoy this wonderful adventure story.

But you will certainly miss the presence of stars such as Ben Stiller and Chris Rock, whose voices are not used.

Madagascar The Game

Specifications

Price: $200

Pros: Plenty of fun to play, with amusing mini-games within the game

Cons: Not meant for seasoned players. Targeted at children of about 12 years and younger