Avatar: The Last Airbender – The Burning Earth is the second video game for the licensed franchise so far. The first title in the series wasn’t received well as one would have imagined for an Emmy Award-winning television. Critics tore it apart (myself included) for its uninspiring storyline, simple and repetitive gameplay, and the poor visuals. So when I was offered to venture into the world of Avatar all over again and review the second game, skepticism was at an all-time high.

Starting off with the storyline, the game revolves around the second season of the show. Picking up right where season one left off, Aang, the lead character, is in search of an Earth-bending tutor and is attempting to improve his skills. If players are accustomed to the storyline of season two already, then they’ll feel right at home due to that it follows the source material rather closely. Beginning with a tutorial of sorts, players will be sent packing through the sewers, into the marshlands and several other distinct areas that they should recognize from the series. Though, I must comment that the developers didn’t do a great job of filling in the holes in the storyline to bring new players into the mix. If you have no idea what Avatar is and who the characters are, Avatar: TLA – TBE is not best option to introduce yourself to the storyline.

With the gameplay, THQ hasn’t really advanced to a whole new level that is stimulating. Primarily a beat ‘em up game, THQ has added in a two-player co-op for a multiplayer component. This addition should excite several fanatics since it’s my firm belief that beat ‘em games are best enjoyed by two or more people. Players shouldn’t worry if they aren’t able to find a friend to tag along for the journey since The Burning Earth has a second character on the screen at all times that players can switch on the fly. Switching between the characters is essential to solve simple puzzles such as getting past guards and getting to higher places. As for the playable characters, THQ included: Aang, Katara, Sokka, Jet, Zuko, Momo, Appa and much more for the die-hard fans.

The two player co-op helped create a more entertaining time with Avatar, but with flaws such as tedious gameplay, the flavor of excitement didn’t last that long in my mouth. Repetitively beating up enemies is only fun for the first few hours before boredom sets in. THQ needs to bump up the volume, tenacity, and vigor of Avatar if they are going to create a successful beat ‘em up game. The puzzles are overwhelmingly easy to figure out, the enemies are uncomplicated, and even the item collecting is done without too much hassle (which may be a good thing to those players who hate hunting down items).

Though, I’ll admit that if THQ is aiming for the younger audiences, then they accomplished their job exceedingly well. Younger players shouldn’t have a problem with destroying the same boxes over and over again to find an item in need. In fact, the younger audiences – along with the hardcore fanatics – will enjoy the boss battles with dastardly villains such as General Fong and Long Feng to fight. With all that considered, THQ may be able to draw in some new fans for the show since the difficulty is especially catered to the casual crowd.

In terms of the combat, players are able to use special attacks to take down the baddies. Special attacks are only rewarded to players if they are successful at collecting the special attack tokens on the battle field. If someone is somehow beleaguered by the enemies and they are in control of Aang, then they should be prepared to enter into his Avatar state where he kicks everyone’s butt on the screen. This ultimate move is incredibly helpful, but I only encountered it twice when I was in danger of dying due to leaving the controller on the floor to answer a phone call.

Avatar: TLA – TBE has minor improvements in the graphics and audio. Being able to capture the look of the franchise is essential for any licensed video game and The Burning Earth is able to accomplish a better job than the original. Also, the sound for the title is quite good for the simple fact that they have the voice-actors from the TV show reprising their roles and the music pulled straight from the show. Though, I must say the music becomes a bit drab after awhile.

Is this one for the ages? Not even close; it’s a predictable action game that is repetitive until the very end. Is this one for all ages? Yes, I sincerely believe that everyone who plays The Burning Earth should be able to pull something out if for enjoyment. I definitely can see parents assisting their children in the co-op to overcome hard obstacles.

Gameplay: 6.4
The added co-op improves the game all round. Outside of that, it’s still a run-of-the-mill beat ‘em up title that should be enjoyed by friends and family.

Graphics: 6.6
Yes, the game does look better than the original. No, it isn’t anywhere near the best to be released on the PS2 in 2007.

Sound: 7.1
While the voice-acting is superb, the music is surprisingly dull.

Difficulty: Easy
Simple in nature, this is inherently a children’s game.

Concept: 5.5
With a “been there, done that” attitude, I felt a little let down with the lack of new features in this Avatar sequel.

Multiplayer: 6.5
Helping the longevity of Avatar, I feel this is the best addition to the sequel. I hope THQ takes it to the next step with four player co-op.

Overall: 6.5
Sticking close to the source material, Avatar: The Last Airbender – The Burning Earth should satisfy hardcore fans and children. There aren’t too many reasons to pick this up if you don’t fall into those two categories. With the lack of improvement, -- outside of minor changes in graphics and addition of co-op -- I advise renting.