Scribblenauts Unlimited

Lore & Background

Scribblenauts Unlimited builds on the gameplay of earlier Scribblenauts titles, with Maxwell returning as the player character. The objective remains to collect Starites by creating objects to complete tasks, but the game is more adventure-based, taking place in a large explorable overworld rather than individual puzzles. Players can traverse themed areas, accept challenges from NPCs, and earn Starite shards. The game uses an upgraded Objectnaut engine, allowing multiple objects to be attached, properties assigned, and objects customized with scaling and coloring tools. The Wii U version supports up to 60 objects simultaneously with no budget meter, and includes local multiplayer and online sharing of custom objects. The 3DS version lacks the object editor but features StreetPass and SpotPass; iOS and Android versions also lack the object editor but have revised touch controls. The Wii U version is the first home console release in the series, with a high-definition visual style and exclusive cameo objects from Super Mario and Legend of Zelda games, later added to European releases of both Wii U and 3DS versions. The Microsoft Windows version integrates with Steam Workshop.

Reader's Guide

Scribblenauts Unlimited received generally favorable reviews. IGN gave the Wii U version an 8.8 out of 10, praising its creativity and level progression but noting low difficulty and limited Nintendo characters. Nintendo World Report gave the Wii U version a 9 out of 10, praising its use of the GamePad, engaging gameplay, and the new object editor. Destructoid's James Stephanie Sterling was less positive, giving it a 5.0 out of 10, calling it limited and panning its simplicity. In March 2013, the game was nominated for and won the Best Casual/Puzzle Game category of the Pocket Gamer Awards. The game's legacy includes its expanded overworld and object editor, which differentiated it from earlier series entries, and its inclusion in the Scribblenauts Mega Pack compilation in 2018. The special edition for the 3DS, exclusive to GameStop, included a pencil-shaped stylus and a silicone cover modeled after Maxwell's rooster hat; a similar Wii U special edition was planned but unproduced.

Did You Know?

• The game's soundtrack includes 90 unique tracks, with 30 primary level tracks and numerous remixes by Tracy W. Bush.
• The Wii U version can store more than 900 custom objects, either made by the player or downloaded from the community.
• The 3DS version lacks the object editor due to technical constraints, but includes StreetPass and SpotPass communication.
• The game's plot reveals that Maxwell's father cursed Lily to teach Maxwell to be a better person.