Disney Classic Games: Aladdin and The Lion King (XB1) Review

The circle of life

Can we just make it a point to give all classic game compilations to the team at Digital Eclipse? I mean after the stellar SNK collection and now this revitalization of two classic Disney titles I think they have earned it. This collection revisits two movie-licensed games that can still spawn a heated debate in this day and age. Aladdin and the Lion King have returned in (almost) their former glory thanks to this spectacular collection. While we are missing one vital component of the puzzle due to licensing rights, it is a modern miracle that these two games are once again available for players to experience.

MSRP: $29.99
Platforms: XB1 (reviewed), PS4, Switch
Price I’d Pay: $29.99

If you have not had a chance to ever experience these games, it was during a time when licensed games were hit and miss. Before the revolution that was Arkham Asylum, most games based on popular movie and TV properties were sloppy attempts at a cash-in. Disney seemed to be above a lot of that, and these two games are some of the prime examples. Mashing together incredible animation and superb platforming Aladdin brings one of the best platformers back into the fold. The Lion King remains a test of patience and invokes plenty of frustration. Still it is great to see these games return.

This collection embodies what Digital Eclipse do best though. While we are missing the SNES version of Aladdin due to licensing rights, what is here is impressive. The original Genesis game alongside the portable versions and even a special trade show version that has never been available to consumers. In total there are five versions of each game. This is impressive as some of these have not been easily accessible in years. Both games also come with the bevy of features that Digital Eclipse collections are becoming known for.

There are of course save states as well as a rewind function, but probably the most impressive inclusion is their jump-in anywhere feature. This allows players to watch a playthrough of the game and pick up wherever they want. This is great for getting past tricky parts or just sections I did not want to play. There are also various screen filters and options to make the games look as sharp, or as pixelated as I wanted. The emulation is stellar and the pieces surrounding it are so well crafted. It is clear the developers put a lot of love and care in bringing these games back.

There is a lot to see and do here even if these games are roughly only one hour a piece. There is also a museum where players can watch documentaries about each game and how they came to life. There is an art gallery and music player as well. This $30 packages comes packed with so much about both of these games that fans of either or both are in for a treat. There is just so much to see and do it makes the frustrating realization that these games were just a chore to play back in the day somehow fade away.

All said this package is definitely a case of what you see is what you get. If you grew up loving these games and have been longing to experience them in multiple facets, this collection is right up your alley. If you never enjoyed them then why are you here? Digital Eclipse should truly be commended for upping the bar on classic game compilations, and if anyone opts not to use them for theirs in the future, I consider it a grave mistake. They take the time and put so much love and care into these things. Let’s keep that trend going. Game preservation so future generations can experience the classics.

Review copy of game provided by publisher.

Good
  • Lots of bonus content
  • Rewind and "pick up anywhere" features
Bad
  • Missing the SNES version of Aladdin
  • Gameplay is still rough
8
Great
Written by
Ken is the Editor-in-Chief of this hole in the wall and he loves to troll for the fun of it. He also enjoys long walks through Arkham Asylum and the cool air of Shadow Moses Island. His turn-ons include Mortal Kombat, Metal Gear Solid and StarCraft.