Video Game Review: SpongeBob SquarePants: The Cosmic Shake (Xbox One)

SpongeBob SquarePants: The Cosmic Shake features the beloved character from the hit Nickelodeon animated series. Developed by THQ Nordic, this new game takes players on an exciting adventure for fans of both the show and gaming.    

The premise of the game is that the universe is in danger and it is up to SpongeBob and his friends to save it. The gameplay involves puzzle-solving, exploration, and platforming as players travel to different worlds to collect cosmic materials and restore the balance of the cosmos. Players will be able to play as SpongeBob, Patrick, Squidward, and Sandy, each with their unique abilities that will come in handy on this intergalactic adventure. The game also features plenty of references to the show, including appearances by some of its most beloved characters. One of the most exciting aspects of SpongeBob SquarePants: The Cosmic Shake is its breathtaking visuals. 

The game contains stunning 3D graphics that bring the colorful and wacky world of SpongeBob to life like never before. Fans get to see their favorite characters and locations rendered in glorious high definition. SpongeBob SquarePants: The Cosmic Shake is available on multiple platforms, including Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. 

SpongeBob SquarePants: The Cosmic Shake is an action-adventure game that follows SpongeBob and his friends as they journey through different dimensions and explore new worlds.  One of the main features of the game is the Cosmic Shake, which allows players to shake the controllers and unleash powerful moves and combos. This gameplay mechanic is similar to the Super Smash Bros. series, where players can perform various moves by pressing certain buttons or shaking the controllers. 

Players also get the chance to explore different worlds, including Bikini Bottom, Jellyfish Fields, and many more. The game features an open world environment that players can freely roam to complete various tasks and objectives. The game's story revolves around SpongeBob and his friends as they try to stop a cosmic menace that threatens to destroy their world. They must work together to collect different items and solve puzzles to progress through the game. 

One of the best parts of SpongeBob SquarePants: The Cosmic Shake is its soundtrack that can be described as a collection of songs that feature elements of pop, rock, and electronic dance music (EDM). The soundtrack includes both original compositions and covers of classic songs, and it captures the whimsical and zany spirit of the SpongeBob SquarePants franchise. Some of the standout tracks include "Jellyfish Jam," "F.U.N. Song Remix," and "Happy-Go-Lively." Overall, the soundtrack adds to the fun and lighthearted atmosphere of the game, which is sure to appeal to fans of all ages.

However, despite its great visuals and soundtrack, SpongeBob SquarePants: The Cosmic Shake doesn't offer enough new content or originality to justify its release, which leads to a lackluster gaming experience. Additionally, the game's development and release seem to be more driven by commercial interests than a genuine desire to offer a fun and engaging experience for players. 

Overall, SpongeBob SquarePants: The Cosmic Shake offers a decent gameplay experience for fans of the franchise despite its flaws. The game features colorful graphics and a great soundtrack that make it stand out from other SpongeBob games despite its lackluster gameplay. 

SCORE: 7 out of 10