Disney Universe is a co-operative platformer built around dressing up as beloved Disney characters and fighting through six themed worlds. Developed by Eurocom Entertainment Software and published by Disney Interactive Studios, it launched on PlayStation 3, Wii, PC, Mac, and Xbox 360 in October 2011 in North America and Europe.
Trailer, via IGN.
Six Worlds, One Suit
Players travel through six distinct worlds, each drawn from classic and modern Disney and Pixar properties:
- Alice in Wonderland
- Pirates of the Caribbean
- The Lion King
- WALL-E
- Monsters, Inc.
- Aladdin
Each world is packed with references to other franchises. The Lion King world might hide a reference to The Little Mermaid, while a Pirates of the Caribbean stage could nod to Finding Nemo. That layering is the whole point.
Costumes and Companions
The costume system is the star. Players can dress as characters from 45 separate Disney franchises, including The Little Mermaid, Tron, Mickey Mouse, Lilo & Stitch, and Finding Nemo. There are also costumes tied to Aladdin, The Lion King, Monsters, Inc., WALL-E, Phineas and Ferb, Tron: Legacy, and The Muppet Show.
Up to four friends can join in local multiplayer, teaming up to overcome enemies and collect powerups and coins. The game’s signature twist is that enemies actively work against you, setting traps or hiding key items.
The Two Main Draws
The levels themselves are the first draw. They are short, bright, and packed with visual gags drawn from each property. The costumes are the second draw. Changing outfits mid-level is simple, and the sheer number of options means no two runs look the same.
The game is also backward-compatible for Xbox One and Series X/S, making it available on newer hardware.
Where It Falls Short
The core platforming is competent but thin. Enemy variety is limited, and the difficulty rarely pushes players. The humor is mixed, and some jokes land flat.
Local Play Is the Only Way
Disney Universe plays best with friends in the room. The game’s identity depends on being together in the same room, which limits its replay value for solo players.
The game’s length is modest. It is meant to be played in short bursts, and the costume collection is the reason to keep coming back.
A Costume Collection Worth Seeing
The costume gallery is the lasting draw. Seeing a full roster of Disney characters on one screen is a treat, even if the actual gameplay beneath it is thin.
Key Facts
- Developer: Eurocom Entertainment Software
- Publisher: Disney Interactive Studios
- Platforms: PlayStation 3, Wii, PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac, Xbox 360
- Release: October 2011 in North America and Europe
- Backward-compatibility: Xbox One and Series X/S, November 15, 2021
- World count: 6
- Costume count: 45
- Player count: Up to 4 local multiplayer
Final Word
Disney Universe is a charming, shallow game that succeeds mostly as a costume showcase. The platforming is adequate, the humor is hit-or-miss, and the multiplayer is the only reason to own it. It is best enjoyed in short bursts with friends, not as a serious adventure.
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