Review by: Michael Rack
Published: October 22, 2003

Of all the next generation consoles, the Xbox is easily the one most lacking in quality platformers. One might even go so far as to say that this deficiency is the largest in the industry today. Looking to close this gap is Beep Industries, a new developer targeting Xbox owners seeking a double-jumping good time. Get your mojo risin’ and pack your bags for a trip to the dank swamps and colorful streets of New Orleans in Voodoo Vince.

The story begins at Madam Charmaine’s voodoo shop, where she helps those in need of her aid. This voodoo priestess isn’t without an enemies list though, as her arch rival, a power-hungry man named Kosmo, has sent his goons to break into her store. Their target is a bag of powerful zombie dust, which can be used to weave wicked spells, perverting reality and wreaking havoc on mother nature. During the intrusion, Charmaine is knocked out and taken away. Luckily, a voodoo doll named Vince becomes animated, and he sets off to rescue her.

Vince may be an unlikely hero, but his casual bravery gets him through. After all, being a voodoo doll has its advantages, as getting injured is not only tolerated, but encouraged. As Vince, you’ll have to do everything in your power to get yourself smashed, crushed, and chopped into tiny pieces, since Vince’s mojo will transmit the destructive energy against his opponents. Vince also has a sense of humor above and beyond any other burlap bag, with enough one-liners and sarcastic observations to make even Bruce Campbell blush.

Vince has a long road ahead, as zombie dust has already made an impact on his surroundings. Kosmo has created a army of minions to block Vince, along with a few particularly nasty generals. Before the day is won, you’ll have to battle a team of gas tanks, a demented dolly, menacing imps, and assorted other bad guys. If you’re quick, strong, and lucky enough, you just might be able to catch up to Kosmo and save Madame Charmaine. He’ll regularly try to deter you from your quest, transmitting his image to you, so he can remind you of his alleged God-like powers, and provide some comic relief.

Your journey will take you from the modest voodoo shop, to the Carnival DePrave, where Kosmo has stowed his captive. Fortunately, Vince has a strong set of jumping legs, allowing him to get over many obstacles as he hikes through the various areas. Eventually, you’ll acquire a makeshift grappling hook, allowing you to Tarzan-swing from special points scattered throughout the later levels. Failing all else, there are a number of vehicles that will get you moving at top speed, including a bumper car, a small plane, a fan boat, and more. Most levels feature a trolley car which can take you to any previously explored area, so you can return to hunt for goodies you missed on your first run through.