Shape Up

Shape Up is a Ubisoft fitness game designed for Xbox One and its Kinect motion controller.

This production features a fresh approach to the subject, enriching traditional exercises (strength-building and aerobic) with elements characteristic of humorous arcade games. For example, when doing push-ups, you can see on the screen as heavy items pile up on your back, doing squats causes the platform beneath you to rise into the skies, and jumping resembles a music game, in which you need to hit certain spaces indicated by falling musical notes. Besides, you get extra points for style, combos, and even beating bosses at the end of some “levels”. In short, the developers started with the idea that exercising may be more effective when combined with fun.

Shape Up offers not only short, 90-second sequences for quick workouts, but also longer sessions, spread across four weeks, aiming at development of the player’s body through various activities. Extra motivation may come from competing against a live opponent playing on the same console or sharing your results with players from around the world.

Graphically, the game is far from the prettiest games available on Xbox One, but what you see on the screen may be appealing. There are a lot of colors, and also the virtual gym is always busy - whether it is due to the multitude of objects appearing on the screen, or the constantly changing setting.

Last updated on August 14, 2015