Why Buy When You Can Rent?

Characters tote water pistols to defeat the baddies in "Monster House." (Thq/ign.com)

Based on the computer-generated movie of the same name, "Monster House" provides a seamless translation from one digital medium to another.

Following the plot of the film, this single-player game traps kids D.J., Chowder and Jenny (voiced by the kids in the movie) inside the house, which has a mind of its own. For much of the game, players will use water pistols to take out enemies. Since the house is alive, such objects as lamps, chairs, TVs and floorboards come to life and attack the children. In addition to washing away enemies with the upgradeable water pistols, each of the kids has a special attack that can be employed. D.J.'s camera stuns enemies, Chowder lobs water balloons and Jenny shoots marbles from a slingshot.

Clearly aimed at younger gamers who liked the PG-rated film, this game provides about eight hours of entertainment as players explore the spooky old house through nine levels. As the game progresses, players will control each of the three kids, which adds variety. There are also a few simple puzzles that involve moving crates and flipping switches. There are some scary moments (for kids) that require gamers to quickly hit a particular button to escape from hazards such as a tree that wants to pull the kids into the ground.

Once the game has been beaten, there's not much replay value. The lack of multiplayer support is also disappointing. There are a few extras, including an unlockable two-dimensional side-scrolling game called Thou Art Dead, which is featured in the film. A cross between "Castlevania" and "Ghouls 'n Ghosts," this is a fun little diversion, but it's not enough to make "Monster House" more than a fun rental experience.

-- John Gaudiosi

Monster House Everyone 10+; PlayStation 2, GameCube ($40) THQ