Two video game generations ago, a dinosaur fighting game released on all major consoles, but while lots of kids like dinosaurs, this was no kids' game. It was all Rage in the most Primal sense. Ubisoft has changed the game, though, by bringing a fighting game without the fighting...almost.

In Battle of Giants, you choose from a collection of dinosaurs for your fighter. While you have several to choose from, they're really divided into 6 classes of characters, and within each class, the only differences are aesthetic. The real customization comes in over time. As you fight other dinosaurs, you collect eggs, and you can redeem those eggs in "the grotto" for "evolutionary" enhancements, which function more like instant mutations: feathers to increase speed (additional attacks), spikes/tusks ("thorns") to increase attack power, and bone plates to add protection. The game is already pretty easy, and these enhancements make it even easier, which may cause older players to lose interest from lack of challenge, but younger players will appreciate the game being approachable.

This game differs from most fighting games in that, instead of using button combinations to pack a punch, you first choose from available attacks, then trace an outline of part of the opponent. The more accurately you trace the line, the more effective your attack. Once the time limit runs out, the attacks run on their own. Repeat the process until your opponent falls.

Besides the fighting, your dinosaur wanders around, eating, drinking, and uncovering fossils. Once fossils are completed, new dinosaur species are unlocked.

The game also features a multiplayer mode. Single card download play allows the opponent to choose a generic dinosaur to fight with. Multicard play allows each player to use a dinosaur customized through single-player play. The multiplayer adds a much needed challenge to the game, and let's face it: fighting games are a lot more fun when playing against someone else.

Battle of Giants makes fighting games accessible to younger kids who are not ready for the intense gameplay of most fighting games. That said, it may lose its appeal quickly for older players. That said, it's easy to lose track of time playing the game as you build up your dinosaur and get just one more modification. Try this one out before you buy, but you'll probably like it if you like dinosaur battles. And if your elementary-aged child likes dinosaurs, this game is a guaranteed winner.