At New York Comic Con, I had the pleasure to pick up and play the new Cartoon Network Punch Time Explosion XL. For those unfamiliar with the game, it is a fighting game akin to Nintendo's Super Smash Bros. series with a wide array of characters from Cartoon Network's original shows. The original 3DS version came out a few months ago to solid reviews, and the console version is looking bigger and better in every way possible.

Granted, the version I played was the Xbox 360 version, but the content will be the same across all systems. The developers listened to what fans wanted out of the 3DS version, and the fans got it. Of course, I’m talking about Johnny Bravo, one of the heavily requested characters. A few more characters have also been added this time around. Some of these include Hoss Delgaddo (from The Grim Adventures of Billy and Mandy), Kevin (from Ben 10), Aku (from Samurai Jack) and Him (from Powerpuff Girls). Not only does the game offer new characters, but new gameplay modes as well. With an added arcade mode and Super Support Characters, the game offers more fights for more characters. Super Support Characters are characters that appear to help you out in a fight, usually from different shows. For instance, when playing as Johnny Bravo I summoned Dracula (from Billy and Mandy) to help out. A disco ball dropped down and we threw a dance party. Needless to say, I emerged victorious. 

Punch Time Explosion XL offers more in terms of extras as well. After each fight, players can accumulate points which can be spent in a plethora of ways. Players can buy bios of the fighters, famous clips from the shows featured in the game, and alternate costumes for the characters. Some of the confirmed alternate costumes include Him's exercise outfit and Zombie Hoss.

Overall, the game looks like a great improvement over its 3DS predecessor. They listened to what fans and reviewers had to say about it, and are making something great. Cartoon Network Punch Time Explosion XL is set to be released later this Fall.