Game Details

Size 1 GB
Region Europe
Genre Action, Adventure
Format 7z / ISO
Year February 2007
Console PSP

 

Arthur and the Minimoys (2007)—released as Arthur and the Invisibles in North America—is a unique case in the PSP library. While the PlayStation 2 and PC versions were traditional action-platformers, the handheld versions were split: the DS version was a WarioWare-style mini-game collection, while the PSP version (developed by Étranges Libellules) actually managed to shrink down the full 3D console adventure into a portable format.

The Premise: Teamwork at 2 Millimeters

The game follows 10-year-old Arthur, who shrinks down to the size of a Minimoy to save his grandfather’s house. Unlike many solo-hero games, this is built entirely around a three-character swap system:

  1. Arthur: The acrobat. He can climb, jump long distances, and swing on vines.

  2. Selenia: The warrior. Armed with the “Sword of Power,” she handles the bulk of the combat and can cut through thick vegetation.

  3. Bétamèche: The utility expert. He uses a projectile weapon (the “globol”) and can squeeze into tiny gaps or use his “detectors” to find hidden items.

Key Features: A Scale-Shift Adventure

  • Character Stacking: A recurring puzzle mechanic involves stacking the three characters on top of each other to reach high switches or interact with “Flagstones” to open massive doors.

  • Insect Mounts: To traverse the “enormous” backyard, you’ll ride on the backs of monstrously large mosquitoes, spiders, and ladybugs. The mosquito segments play like an on-rails shooter.

  • Environmental Interaction: Because of your size, everyday objects become obstacles. You’ll use pencils as bridges, soda cans as platforms, and giant blades of grass as skyscrapers.

  • Dynamic Switching: You can switch between the trio instantly. Most puzzles require you to position one character on a pressure plate while the others advance.

 

  • 100% Walkthrough: To achieve 100% completion, you must find every Mul-Mul (fluffy white creatures) and Grandfather’s Treasure piece hidden in each level.

  • The Sword of Power: Selenia’s dagger can be upgraded into the Sword of Power, which is essential for taking down the late-game “Henchmen” enemies who carry shields.

  • Hidden Bosses: While most bosses are story-mandatory (like the giant spider), there are secret “Elite” mosquito squads in the flying sections that only appear if you maintain a high accuracy rating.

  • Unlockable Art: Finding enough collectibles unlocks a massive gallery of production stills and concept art from the Luc Besson film.

Short Review: A Visual Surprise

The Good

  • Impressive Graphics: For a 2007 PSP title, the sense of scale is fantastic. Looking up at “skyscraper-high” blades of grass while giant bees buzz overhead is a technical highlight.

  • Varied Gameplay: It avoids the “repetitive brawler” trap by constantly rotating between combat, block-pushing puzzles, and high-speed driving/flying missions.

  • Faithful Adaptation: It feels like a genuine expansion of the film’s universe, with high-quality cutscenes and a soundtrack that mirrors the cinematic feel.

The Bad

  • Slow Pacing: The block-pushing puzzles (similar to The Lost Vikings) can feel tedious and slow down the action, especially since the characters move somewhat slowly.

  • Camera Quirks: In tight underground tunnels, the camera can occasionally get stuck behind walls or under large objects.

  • North American Rarity: Because it was canceled in the US, finding a copy can be difficult and expensive for North American collectors.

Screenshots

Arthur and the Minimoys PSP ISO
Arthur and the Minimoys PSP ISO