Robots (Game Boy Advance) - Review by Andrew

Introduction

While to animation enthusiasts Blue Sky studios are best know for their Oscar winning Bunny the rest of the world is more familiar with their crowd pleasing Ice Age and now of course, Robots. Indeed it seems that full-length CGI movies are the new thing and Robots is only one of a handful of releases this year. Of course family movie means computer and console game tie-in's and Robot's is not only appearing on Nintendo's GameCube but also the GBA and DS. We felt it only fair to review these separately (even though the screens appear to make them look identical) and here we're looking at the GBA version.

Gameplay

Your main objectives couldn't be simpler as it seems that every robot that's not trying to stop you in your tracks is a little forgetful and has misplaced a vital component, which they can't progress without. Reunite these rather scatty tin things with said item and they'll generally reward you with yes, you guessed it, more stuff. Not all of the Robots World is open to you at the beginning and to get from the various areas you'll need to use the Transit System. You'll also have to upgrade your handy Wonderbot and while this mechanical sidekick starts out reasonably useless enhancements such as the Drill and Trampoline will have you reaching a variety of previously closed off areas. The same is true of your various gadgets, which you'll need blueprints before even considering construction, and while some of these are simple weapons others open doors.

To break away from the platforming the developers have also included some mini-games which become available from the main menu once they have been played in the game. The best of these is the Marble Madness inspired Transit Challenge Courses which have you guiding a ball around an impossibly narrow platform whilst avoiding all manors of dangers. There are five of these dotted around Robot City and once you've completed them you'll have the opportunity to unlock another five. Next up is Jack Hammers Oil Rush which is another game based on an arcade classic. Here you must tend three separate bars serving and cleaning up an increasing amount of thirsty robots. Finally (and undoubtedly the least entertaining) is the Zip Line Challenge which has you travelling at speed down a 45 degree fixed line whilst avoiding dominoes of all things. All this is saved via the menu at any time during the game or at one of the many save capsules. The bonus here is that seeking one of these out will also rejuvenate you health too.

Controls

Standard platform controls with enough hints and tips throughout so you'll never get lost or confused. Don't be put off by the seemingly endless drops around each platform either as you are generally protected by an invisible wall which stops you from harming yourself.

Graphics

The majority of the game is simply a 2D platformer and you really have seen all this before on countless occasions. The animation here isn't too bad but the environments are so bland and similar it's difficult to tell where you are without first referring to the map. The highlight is definitely the unlockable images which are located throughout the game. There are a generous amount of these which are a collection of stills and production paintings from the movie and are well worth seeking out.

Sound

The soundtrack is really very good indeed although as I haven't seen the movie yet I can't actually confirm if it's the film score or a new composition. Disappointingly voice samples are incredibly sparse and conversations are delivered by on-screen text with characters only muttering anything when in celebration or peril.

Final comments

After the triumph that was Lemony Snicket developers Griptonite Studios dish up this rather uninspiring effort which manages to highlight all the pitfalls of producing a movie tie-in title. It does have it's highlights and soundtrack plus the inclusion of the concept art is well worth a look and listen although the eventual DVD release is probably a better place for these. Unfortunately the good is far outweighed by the negative aspects and bland game design at this level is completely unforgivable especially when you consider this is aimed at younger players. The problems continue with the endless repetition of gaming objectives and the rather frustrating level design. Sadly the whole experience is another wasted opportunity and while this appears to be the norm for movie tie-ins, gamers deserve a lot better.

Pro: Great Soundtrack.
Con: Bland Level Design.
Final score: 5

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