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Skylanders SuperChargers

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Skylanders SuperChargers
Item: Skylanders SuperChargers
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2015

GenresAdventure, Platformer, RPG, Single Player, Multiplayer, Racing

AvailableSep 20, 2015

PlatformPlayStation 4, Xbox One

DeveloperVicarious Visions

Overview

The next game in the Skylanders franchises adds air, sea, and land vehicles to the mix.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Skylanders SuperChargers’ story is a predictable, formulaic affair that prioritizes gameplay over narrative depth, offering accessible fun with shallow characters and recycled tropes. While humor, varied missions, and cheeky twists (like Kaos breaking the fourth wall) add charm, its reliance on familiar villains, minimal character growth, and consumerist undertones make it a bland, uninspired entry—functional but unremarkable, serving more as a backdrop for action than a compelling tale.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

12%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

84%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Skylanders SuperChargers is generally praised for its accessibility, simplicity, and adherence to the series’ established formula, which resonates well with its target audience. Critics like 3DJuegos and Critical Hit highlight that the narrative follows a straightforward plot—Kaos threatening the Skylands again—with a sense of urgency and well-produced video scenes that enhance engagement. IGN Italia introduces a unique twist by having Kaos address the player directly, adding a fresh angle to the recurring villain trope. Additionally, Worth Playing notes that the story’s humor and character development, particularly with Lord Kaos and Glumshanks, help offset its predictability. The campaign’s structure, as described by Gaming Nexus and PlaySense, offers variety through land, sea, and air missions, while Twinfinite acknowledges hidden paths and side activities that add subtle depth. These elements collectively suggest the story functions effectively as a framework for gameplay rather than a narrative powerhouse. However, several critics criticize the story for being formulaic, shallow, and lacking originality. IGN and Digital Spy describe it as "disappointingly bland" and "idiotic," with predictable boss fights and minimal character development. Atomix and Forbes point out that the narrative avoids deep exploration of characters or themes, instead relying on references to previous games like the Golden Temple. Level7.nu and Metro GameCentral critique the script as "bog standard Saturday morning fare," while Gameplanet highlights consumerist undertones tied to toy purchases. Arcade Sushi notes uneven pacing, with some segments feeling optional, and COGconnected calls the story "minimal filler." These criticisms underscore a general consensus that the plot prioritizes gameplay mechanics over storytelling, leaving little room for innovation or emotional investment. Overall, the critics agree that Skylanders SuperChargers delivers a functional, if unremarkable, narrative tailored to its family-friendly audience. While it lacks depth and originality—repeating Kaos’s villainy and relying on familiar tropes—it succeeds in providing a cohesive framework for its vehicle-based gameplay and varied missions. Positive remarks about humor, character quirks (e.g., Worth Playing), and unique elements like IGN Italia’s fourth-wall break suggest the story is competent within its constraints. However, the widespread criticism of its predictability and lack of narrative sophistication indicates that it fails to elevate the series beyond its formulaic roots. The game’s strengths lie in its gameplay variety and charm, with the story serving more as a backdrop than a central pillar.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Skylanders SuperChargers revitalized the series with bold vehicle-centric gameplay, blending racing, combat, and puzzles across land, air, and water—its co-op mechanics and creative level design earned widespread acclaim, though repetitive elements and uneven controls tempered its impact.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

74%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

26%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Skylanders SuperChargers was widely praised for its innovative integration of vehicles as a core mechanic, offering a fresh twist on the series’ traditional platforming and puzzle-solving. Critics highlighted the introduction of land, air, and water-based vehicles, which added diverse experiences through racing, exploration, and combat. For instance, GameSpot lauded the “varied vehicle mechanics” across different terrains, while IGN noted the “creative level mechanics” like gravity manipulation and elemental bonuses. The inclusion of cooperative play—where one player drives and another acts as a gunner—was a standout feature, with Gaming Nexus emphasizing its “enhanced accessibility.” Additionally, the game’s balance between accessibility for younger players and depth for veterans was frequently cited, as noted by GameSpot and Metro GameCentral, who praised its engaging challenges and varied difficulty levels. The mix of racing, puzzles, and combat, along with vehicle customization options, created a dynamic experience that many critics felt revitalized the series. Despite these strengths, several critiques emerged regarding gameplay execution and design. Some reviewers found repetitive elements, such as GamesRadar+ noting “easy combat lacking depth” and Polygon criticizing short missions. Vehicle controls also drew mixed reactions: while Pure Xbox praised racing mechanics, they flagged “poor control schemes in arena battles,” and IGN mentioned overly simplified customization. Others pointed to accessibility issues, such as 3DJuegos highlighting that some content required additional purchases, and Arcade Sushi noting non-shareable resources. Additionally, certain vehicle types—like aerial or aquatic ones—were seen as less engaging by critics like Multiplayer.it and ZTGD, who found them “less refined” compared to land-based mechanics. While these flaws were acknowledged, they were often framed as minor drawbacks rather than deal-breakers. Overall, the majority of critics viewed Skylanders SuperChargers’ gameplay as a significant improvement for the series, with its vehicle-centric innovations and variety earning high marks. The consensus leaned heavily positive, emphasizing that the game’s strengths—such as its creative mechanics, co-op play, and diverse challenges—outweighed its shortcomings. GameSpot and IGN both acknowledged the “successful addition” of racing elements, while Digital Spy praised the “successful integration of racing.” Even critics who pointed out flaws, like Worth Playing and COGconnected, conceded that the game’s depth and innovation made it a worthwhile experience. While not without its issues, the gameplay was broadly celebrated as a bold step forward for Skylanders, reflecting a strong critical reception that highlighted its creativity and replayability.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Skylanders SuperChargers dazzles with vibrant, detailed visuals, creative environments, and faithful toy integration—earning universal praise as the series' best-looking entry despite minor critiques over animation quality and consistency.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

93%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The majority of critics overwhelmingly praised the graphics and visual design of Skylanders SuperChargers, emphasizing its vibrant, detailed, and immersive presentation. Reviewers like 3DJuegos highlighted "high-quality graphical details," "striking animations," and "notable visual effects," while Digital Spy described the game as "colourful," "buoyant," and filled with "richly detailed figurines." The environments were consistently lauded for their creativity and variety, with IGN calling them "beautifully animated" and "the best-looking Skylanders ever," and Twinfinite noting "a perfect blend of color, effects, and humor" across unique sky islands. Gameblog.fr and Multiplayer.it praised improved lighting, complex models, and dynamic environments, while GamesRadar+ and God is a Geek highlighted the sleek vehicle designs and faithful representation of physical toys. Even critics like PlaySense and Post Arcade celebrated the game’s "unparalleled appearance" and "terrific" visual presentation, underscoring its appeal to both children and adults. While the consensus was largely positive, some critiques pointed to specific shortcomings. JeuxActu noted that "some animations and character models are subpar," while Level7.nu criticized overdesigned toy characters and inconsistent vehicle designs, suggesting a lack of cohesion compared to earlier entries. Additionally, Worth Playing acknowledged the game as "not a graphical masterpiece" but still "solid" with clean textures and stable performance. Polygon mentioned that while the art style was a step forward, it avoided gritty realism, and Destructoid compared the visuals to classics like Diddy Kong Racing, implying a nostalgic rather than cutting-edge approach. These critiques, though minor, highlighted areas where the game’s visual design fell short of perfection, particularly in animation quality and consistency. Overall, the critical reception of Skylanders SuperChargers’ graphics and visual design was overwhelmingly positive, with most reviewers celebrating its vibrant aesthetics, creative level design, and faithful toy-to-life integration. The game’s improved lighting, detailed environments, and charming art style set it apart as a standout entry in the series, even if some critics like JeuxActu and Level7.nu pointed to isolated flaws. As IGN and Gameblog.fr emphasized, the visuals represented a significant leap forward, offering a visually engaging experience that appealed to both younger audiences and seasoned gamers. Despite minor criticisms, the consensus was clear: Skylanders SuperChargers delivered a polished, colorful, and immersive visual package that reinforced its status as one of the series’ strongest entries.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

music and sound design

Description unavailable

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Positive reception for Skylanders SuperChargers' voice acting, praised for professionalism, distinct characters, and strong regional dubs, though Richard Horvitz's shrill portrayal of Kaos drew criticism.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

55%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Skylanders SuperChargers is largely praised for its quality and immersion, with multiple reviewers highlighting its strengths. 3DJuegos emphasizes that professional voices from children’s movies elevate the game’s presentation, adding depth to characters. Atomix commends the Spanish dub as "excellent," noting it enhances the fantasy setting’s magical atmosphere, while PlaySense praises the Dutch voice acting for contributing to the game’s overall quality. Worth Playing appreciates the "strong" and "distinct" voices of characters, with no repeated lines that bolster immersion despite limited dialogue. Additionally, COGconnected and ZTGD acknowledge the return of familiar voice actors, maintaining the series’ established quality. These positive assessments underscore a cohesive effort to deliver engaging and memorable performances across multiple languages and character roles. However, some criticisms emerge, particularly regarding specific voice work. NZGamer directly criticizes Richard Horvitz’s portrayal of Kaos as "shrill" and irritating, especially in cutscenes, which detracts from the experience for some players. While other reviewers like Destructoid mention "upbeat performances" that align with the game’s Saturday morning cartoon style, they do not elaborate on specific actors or technical aspects. Similarly, Gameplanet notes memorable lines from characters but does not delve into the quality of voice acting itself. These critiques, though relatively isolated, highlight that while most voice work is well-received, certain performances may fall short of expectations, particularly in villainous roles. Overall, the consensus among critics leans positively toward Skylanders SuperChargers’ voice acting, with the majority praising its professionalism, variety across languages, and character distinctiveness. While NZGamer’s criticism of Kaos’s voice work stands out as a notable negative, it is an exception rather than a widespread issue. The inclusion of familiar actors, strong regional dubs, and immersive performances across multiple platforms (PS4 and Xbox One) reinforces the game’s commitment to quality in this aspect. Most reviewers agree that the voice acting enhances the game’s charm and engagement, even if minor flaws exist in specific areas. This balance of praise and isolated criticism reflects a generally favorable reception for the title’s audio presentation.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Skylanders SuperChargers offers polished 60fps performance and stable multiplayer on PS4/Xbox One, but clunky controls, accessibility hiccups, and arena flaws undermine flow—technical issues were minor, but design quirks linger.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

37%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Skylanders SuperChargers on both PS4 and Xbox One received largely positive feedback, with critics highlighting smooth gameplay, stable frame rates, and minimal major bugs. On PS4, Atomix praised the game’s "polished performance" with a consistent 1080p/60fps, while Gaming Nexus noted seamless online multiplayer and balanced vehicle mechanics. Similarly, COGconnected on Xbox One emphasized "smooth performance" with no hitches in online races, and IGN Italia acknowledged the game’s stability despite a minor compatibility issue with older systems. Both platforms saw praise for their technical consistency, with Multiplayer.it and Worth Playing citing solid frame rates (60fps) and minimal technical flaws. These reviews collectively suggest that SuperChargers delivered a technically reliable experience across both consoles, particularly in terms of online functionality and visual fidelity. However, several critics pointed to specific technical shortcomings that detracted from the overall experience. On PS4, Level7.nu criticized "clumsy" vehicle controls, especially in water sections, while PlaySense noted "slow dialogue" and "awkward arena controls." NZGamer highlighted issues with difficulty settings and inaccessible unlockable areas, and Worth Playing mentioned inconsistent car rumbles. On Xbox One, We Got This Covered pointed to online racing challenges like "difficulty finding opponents" and "unperfect" vehicle controls during arena battles, while ZTGD noted cumbersome toy swapping. Though no major crashes or glitches were reported, these issues underscored design flaws and control inconsistencies that impacted gameplay flow, particularly in multiplayer and platforming scenarios. The overall consensus among critics was that Skylanders SuperChargers maintained strong technical performance across both platforms, with minor issues overshadowed by its polished presentation. While 3DJuegos and IGN acknowledged limited online player availability or fixed camera problems, they emphasized the absence of critical bugs or instability. Similarly, Polygon and Pure Xbox noted design flaws but avoided citing technical failures. The game’s stability, consistent frame rates, and smooth multiplayer experiences were widely praised, even as critics like Level7.nu and We Got This Covered highlighted control and accessibility issues. Ultimately, the reviews suggest that SuperChargers succeeded in delivering a technically sound experience, with its flaws largely falling into design or usability categories rather than technical shortcomings.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Skylanders SuperChargers thrives on replayability via endless customization, multiplayer mayhem, and chaotic racing, but its pay-to-win hurdles and repetitive loops undermine long-term appeal.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

47%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The majority of reviewers highlight the strong replayability of Skylanders SuperChargers, emphasizing its diverse content and engaging mechanics. Critics like 3DJuegos and GameSpot praise the game’s extensive customization options for vehicles, multiplayer modes, and varied missions, which create a sense of longevity. Features such as unlockable content via additional vehicles, co-op play, and dynamic environments (as noted by Atomix) contribute to sustained engagement. Digital Spy and Gameblog.fr also commend bonus content like mini-games, collectibles, and online multiplayer, while NZGamer and PlaySense stress the endless variety of routes, challenges, and vehicle-based activities that extend gameplay beyond the main story. The inclusion of racing modes, Skystones Overdrive, and side quests (mentioned by Critical Hit and Post Arcade) further enhances its appeal for completionists and casual players alike. However, several critics point to limitations that may hinder replayability. GamesRadar+ and Multiplayer.it note that paywalls and microtransactions restrict access to key content, such as racing modes or additional tracks, which could deter long-term engagement. COGconnected and God is a Geek highlight that unlocking all features often requires extra purchases, creating a barrier for players who lack the necessary vehicles or in-game items. Additionally, IGN and Polygon mention that while post-game content like daily missions and the Academy hub adds depth, the predictability of the story and repetitive tasks (as critiqued by Level7.nu) may reduce its lasting appeal. Some reviewers, like Guardian, also point out that certain mechanics, such as arena sections in racing modes, feel frustrating or underdeveloped, which could diminish enthusiasm over time. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Skylanders SuperChargers offers a robust replay value driven by its variety of gameplay modes, customization, and multiplayer elements. While 3DJuegos, GameSpot, and NZGamer celebrate its extensive content and long-term engagement, they acknowledge that reliance on microtransactions and pay-to-play mechanics (as critiqued by GamesRadar+ and Multiplayer.it) may limit accessibility for some players. Despite these drawbacks, the game’s blend of racing, exploration, and collectible-driven progression ensures it remains a compelling experience for fans of the franchise, even if its replayability is somewhat tied to additional purchases. The balance between innovation and commercialization appears to be a recurring theme in the reviews, reflecting both the game’s strengths and its potential shortcomings.

TL;DR

replay value

Skylanders SuperChargers thrives on replayability via endless customization, multiplayer mayhem, and chaotic racing, but its pay-to-win hurdles and repetitive loops undermine long-term appeal.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The majority of critics praised Skylanders SuperChargers as a standout entry in the series, emphasizing its innovation, variety, and family-friendly appeal. Reviewers like 3DJuegos and Atomix highlighted its status as the best Toys-to-Life game to date, lauding its creative vehicular mechanics, engaging co-op features, and expanded content. IGN Italia and Metro GameCentral commended its imaginative design, graphical improvements, and balance between new ideas and traditional gameplay elements. The integration of racing and platforming mechanics was particularly celebrated, with Critical Hit and GameSpot noting the game’s addictive, fast-paced experience. Many critics, including Forbes and Digital Spy, praised its high value for money, backward compatibility, and accessibility, making it a strong recommendation for both casual and dedicated players. The game’s charm and variety were consistently cited as key strengths, with Gameblog.fr calling it a “good vintage” and Worth Playing noting its satisfying polish and content depth. Despite these positives, several critics pointed to notable flaws that tempered the experience. IGN and Polygon criticized the game’s bland story and predictable structure, while GamesRadar+ argued it lacked the “magic” of earlier entries, feeling like a safe, formulaic sequel. Monetization practices were another recurring concern: Digital Spy and Gameblog.fr noted pay-to-win elements and sales pitches, while Pure Xbox criticized uneven vehicle mechanics and cumbersome toy-swapping systems. Level7.nu and Polygon also highlighted issues like rushed pacing, short missions, and technical quirks such as dialogue speed and arena controls. Additionally, some felt the game’s difficulty curve was too gentle for seasoned players (3DJuegos) or that its reliance on additional purchases diminished its appeal. These critiques, while varied, collectively pointed to a game that, despite its strengths, struggled to fully innovate beyond its established formula. Overall, the consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with Skylanders SuperChargers being regarded as one of the strongest entries in the franchise and the toys-to-life genre. While acknowledging its flaws, reviewers like Metro GameCentral (9/10) and IGN Italia emphasized its creativity, accessibility, and entertainment value, positioning it as a must-have for families and fans. Even critics with reservations, such as Polygon and GamesRadar+, conceded that the game’s improvements and charm outweighed its shortcomings. The balance between innovation and nostalgia, coupled with its broad appeal, solidified its reputation as a highly enjoyable, if imperfect, experience. As COGconnected noted, it was the most ambitious and fully realized entry yet, cementing its place as a standout title in the series despite lingering issues with monetization and design consistency.

TL;DR

Praise for innovation, family-friendly fun, and gameplay variety; criticized for bland story, pay-to-win issues, and uneven mechanics. Despite flaws, hailed as a standout entry in the series.

MONSTER

Reviews

85 reviews found

PlaySense

PlayStation 4

Oct 7, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

An excellent entry in the franchise with significant improvements via vehicles, strong visuals, and engaging gameplay, despite minor flaws like dialogue speed and arena controls.

Forbes

PlayStation 4

Oct 11, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review calls Skylanders SuperChargers a "very impressive package" with high value, citing its breadth of content, backward compatibility, and production quality. The score is 9/10.

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Metro GameCentral

PlayStation 4

Sep 24, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review calls Skylanders SuperChargers 'easily the best toys-to-life game so far,' praising its imaginative design, improved gameplay, and family-friendly appeal. It earns a 9/10 score for being a standout entry in the series and the genre.

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Atomix

PlayStation 4

Oct 13, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that Skylanders SuperChargers is the best Toys-to-Life game to date, praising its innovation, variety, and charm despite minor issues with figure quality. It recommends the game for both casual and dedicated players.

Gaming Nexus

PlayStation 4

Sep 20, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes positively

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IGN Italia

PlayStation 4

Sep 29, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review praises the game's creativity, balance between new and traditional elements, and visual appeal. It positions SuperChargers as a strong entry in the series, though some minor issues are noted.

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COGconnected

Xbox One

Sep 20, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that Skylanders SuperChargers is the most ambitious and fully realized entry in the series, offering a fresh experience through vehicles and expanded content. It's praised as a must-have for fans and a strong contender for holiday gifts.

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LaPS4

PlayStation 4

Oct 7, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes with a positive assessment, calling the game a must-have for children and highlighting its family-friendly entertainment, variety, and ability to appeal to older players as well.

Multiplayer.it

PlayStation 4

Oct 1, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that Skylanders SuperChargers is an important, innovative entry in the series, praised for its vehicular gameplay, graphical quality, and reduced monetization pressures. It is considered one of the best titles in the franchise, though not without minor flaws.

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Post Arcade (National Post)

PlayStation 4

Sep 20, 2015

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review praises Skylanders SuperChargers as one of the series' best entries, highlighting its fun toys, varied gameplay, and good value. It receives an 8.5/10 score and a positive recommendation.