As fun as Playmation is, there are a few areas that could stand some modification to make it more enjoyable for everyone.
- Sound: In a word, the gear is loud — extremely loud. It took us a good half hour to figure out the volume control, and once we did it wasn't that effective. (Learn from my mistake: To turn the volume down, push the Navigation Dial, and turn the dial until you hear "volume." Then you can push the dial to select your volume.) Also, the volume controls only control the Repulsor Gear — they don't affect the Power Activators.
- Size of Repulsor Gear: As I mentioned, it was a bit too big for my 6-year-old, but I understand it needs to be so it can fit bigger kids (and the adults who will inevitably be playing with it).
- Communication Between Devices: I loved hearing J.A.R.V.I.S. give me instructions, but when playing with Captain America on the Power Activator, we were receiving instructions from both at the same time, and it was very confusing. Add the lights (see below) to that mix, and it was a lot to process.
- Understanding the Power Activator: Thank goodness my press kit included a tip sheet informing me what the various colors on the Power Activator meant, otherwise, I would have thought it was just a technicolor light show. So you know:
- Purple = enemy is unprotected, attack now!
- Green = enemy is charging up their attack, so get ready to dodge, hide, or raise your shield.
- Hot pink = you've hit your enemy, causing damage.
- Blue = you're facing a shielded enemy; you'll have to use your Palm Cannon!
- Yellow = flashing yellow means the Power Activator is about to explode; hide behind something or run out of the way to avoid taking damage.
- White = enemy is attacking; use your shield or jump, dodge, or run out of the way!
