Golden Sun
Average Customer Review:
Video Game (15 November, 2001)
list price: $29.99
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Editorial Review

Golden Sun is the first original role-playing game for the GameBoy Advance to appear in the U.S. And despite perhaps a too-familiar story line,Golden Sun's jaw-dropping graphics, deep magic system, and uniquemultiplayer arena mode truly show that the Game Boy Advance is capable of aserious RPG.

Game developer Camelot (which also made the legendary Shining Force series forthe Sega Genesis, and, more recently,Mario Golf andMario Tennis for theNintendo 64) designed Golden Sun from the ground up to take advantage ofthe GBA's horsepower, and it shows. Sharp, vivid landscapes, detailed towns anddungeons, and awesome weather effects--it looks like a Super Nintendo game withsome extra zing squeezed onto a handheld system. Fans of Secret of Manaor Chrono Trigger will appreciate the feel of this game.

But the game's greatest strength is its magic system. Your characters each havetheir own latent psychic abilities based on one of the four elements of alchemy(earth, water, wind, and fire). The characters will be called upon to use theirindividual forms of telepathy and telekinesis to solve various puzzles in thegame. Also, you can collect Djinn (elemental spirits) and link them to yourcharacters. Not only can these Djinn be summoned in battle, they can alsobolster or hinder your characters' latent psychic abilities, give them specialattacks, and even change your characters' class. This system is similar toFinal Fantasy VIII's guardian system, though far more intuitive and easyto master.

Golden Sun employs a basic turn-based battle system, but it has amazingspell and fighting techniques that really take advantage of the GBA'stechnology. The game achieves a nice balance between flashy attacks and thebrevity of these same attacks--a lesson the makers of other RPGs should learn.Battles are beautifully and quickly fought, and don't overtax the gamer.

The game also has an addictive arena mode in which players can fight monstersthey've already encountered in the game. Players can also link up with anotherGBA (this feature requires another Golden Sun cartridge) and fightagainst another party. While it's not true a multiplayer option, it adds a greatreplay value to the game.

Golden Sun's weakest point, however, is its standard-issue story. Inessence: boy wakes up amidst disaster, meets stalwart friends, and rises to thechallenge to save the day (all while living up to the image of his dear departedfather). The story is a little stale, but the mechanics of the game transcendthis flaw and bring the gamer into a state of handheld nirvana. --BryanKarsh

Pros:

• Vivid graphics
• Deep, intuitive magic system
• Addictive multiplayer arena mode

Cons:

• A plot straight out of "RPG Story Lines 101"

... Read more

Reviews (463)

Good...but too short
I know they're leaving room for a sequal, but I finished in about a week of real time, and I didn't play that much.Plus, since you're stuck in Lalivero after you beat the final battle, there's no replay value.Although it left me eagerly awaiting the second one, it also left me feeling a little cheated.However, overall, this is an awesome game.The storyline didn't bother me, because the number of sideplots the ever-altruistic Isaac and crew feel the need to indulge in kept things varied and fun.Overall, I highly recommend this game, but if you're getting it, buy Lost Age at the same time, or you'll be really mad when you finish.Me?I'm promising myself Lost Age as a reward after I finish Finals Week, and I'm counting the days.

Amazing game
This game is one of the best games I have ever played.

Music 4.5/5 pretty good music

Graphcs 5/5 amazing graphics the summons are awsome

GamePlay 5/5 very fun game

Overall 4.7/5

Overall

Any RPG loving GBA owner should buy this.
Created by a little know developer called Camelot (they made some Mario Golf and Mario Tennis games, as well as Shining Force before they joined Nintendo), Golden Sun is one of the GBA's more exceptional games.

Golden Sun has one major achievement it had for the GBA.It pushed the limits of the system in terms of graphics.While the visuals for wandering around seem rather easy for the system to create, the battles are a spectacular achievement.Even though the characters and enemies are shown as animated sprites.The sprites themselves are not much to write home about, but regardless they are quite convincing and suit the battle setup more than you might expect.The battle screen is sort of a "quasi-3D" setup.The background and sprites are 2D, but they are executed in such a manner that they look 3D.Not only that, battle effects, such as spells and simple attacks, add wonderfully to the setup.The only real problem I can see is that some spell effects slow down the framerates (how fast or smoothly it runs) noticably, but it's all handled so well that it doesn't even seem like a glitch, and out of sheer irony it adds to the effect of some of the spells.

The sound is a mixed bag.The music score part is excellent.Everything from the main menu music, to town themes, and the grand world map music is great both technically and melodically.If any songs do get on your nerves, they either won't last long or are done in such a way that you can tune them out while playing.Sound effects, however, are very standard.A lot of them are recycled so much that it's practically mind numbing.However, none of it seems completely out of place, and there isn't much that will hurt your ears, so that's something to be happy for.

The gameplay itself only has one real flaw in my opinion.The battles are too easy.With the exception of most of the boss battles, regular battles tend to be so easy that the thought of using the run option will never occur to you (they also go so quick that there's not really a time issue involved either).There's also an issue where, if you set all of your characters to attack one enemy and that enemy is destroyed, the characters that attack him later have their attack wasted.This really isn't too much of an issue, though, and Camelot was smart enough to make the character automatically defend if that should happen (which means damage to that character would be halved... though I think that only refers to physical damage).

The story has gotten a lot of bad press in my opinion.However, it should be noted that if you play this game, the story alone may persuade you to buy the next game, GS: The Lost Age (which is already out).While that's not particularly a bad thing, as the combination of the two stories is really awesome, just be aware of the extra expense that may cost for your wallet.Also, it should be noted that this game is a bit on the short side (roughly 20-25 hours), but that's still not much of an issue in my view (just so you know, the second game in the series is roughly 40-45 hours long, so that one is lengthier).

All in all, the game is quite fun.However, there are a few quirks that I mentioned above that may get on some people's nerves, so just know what you're getting into. ... Read more

Asin: B00005OARM
Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. Nintendo Game Boy Advance (Gameboy)    3. GBA    4. Role Playing Games (Game, RPG, RPGs, CRPG, CRPGs)    5. Strategy (Strategic)   

Mech Platoon
Average Customer Review:
Video Game (14 December, 2001)

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Editorial Review

Your mission is to land on a planet, build a base, and develop a military infrastructure that will allow you to control the planet's resources and defeat up to three other would-be superpowers. You can develop weapons from pieces of scrap discarded by your enemies. The game features intricate battles on bright, clearly defined terrain and concise readings of your battle resources. Play against the console or up to three other gamers using the Game Link cable. ... Read more

Features

• Dominate precious natural resources and develop military support facilities while building an army
• Create unique secret weapons by salvaging enemy parts
• annihilate one of four military superpowers
• Develop technology and improve military defense systems
• Expand your forces by completing Campaign missions

Reviews (21)

Indeed a Great Game
Mech Platoon is a very good game that provides challenging levels, but fun never less; it does not play like advance wars whereas it plays real-time. You start by choosing one of the three teams, Leon, Minos, and Trampler. In the game you don't start out with the power to build all of the units, you acquire them by gathering parts that you salvage from missions, giving a new twist to the game. The units in the game have special abilities, which give it power over enemy units, for example it your unit you control has Assault - slay, the unit has more power when fighting close combat units. There are six buildings in the game plus one secret one, each of them can build, upgrade, or defend, however the seventh one... I won't give the secret away. As the game progresses the game gets harder and harder and the enemy units get smarter.But overall this game is a worth it, I suggest you to buy it because it's great, but it is hard to find in stores.

Great game- couple of problems though
15 hours

GREAT GAME!!!!!

Even though there is several problems with it, I really liked this game. The graphics are great, and the intro movie is amazing. I think thats the best graphics I have ever seen on GBA.

Gameplay- The computer AI could have used a lot more work. It is rather dumb, but sometimes it is hard to win just because of the sheer numbers that it has. Also, once you select a unit and you send it somewhere, it becomes unselected. That gets annoying sometimes when you miss your target. I like the grouping idea though. I thought the whole unit system was the best part of the game. Its great- you can have over 40 different units to select from. I give gameplay a 4 out of 5 stars.

Sound- The music is the worst part of the entire game. Sometimes it gets so annoying that you shut it off, then you cant hear the sound effects. I like the explosions and the laser shots, but man the music could have used some work. I've heard Gameboy Color music thats better. I give music 2 out of 5 stars.

Graphics- The graphics are great; not the greatest, but they are better than average. And I just have to give this 4.5 out of 5 because of the intro move- you'll really like it.
I give Graphics 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Replay value- Yes. After you finish the campaign mode, you can play w/ your friends or play the computer.
I give Replay value a 4 out of 5 stars.

Overall a great buy, but it is possible to overpay for it. I hope they come out with a Mech Platoon 2 and fix some of the problems it has right now.

Portable fun for an RTS fan
I would buy this game, but ONLY if you like real time strategy games.Don't look at just the stars for some of those 1 star reviews, because those complaints could be said about any RTS game.Ok so the AI could be a little dumb sometimes, but that is what a link mode is for and yes the missions could be better.

If you don't like the genre, don't buy the game, If you like the genre, go ahead and buy it ... Read more

Asin: B00005UJS7
Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. Nintendo Game Boy Advance (Gameboy)    3. GBA    4. Strategy (Strategic)   

Game & Watch Gallery 4
Average Customer Review:
Video Game (31 October, 2002)
list price: $34.99 -- our price: $29.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Game & Watch portable games were before the time of Game Boy, but are available again in both classic and updated versions in this Game & Watch Gallery 4 anthology for Game Boy Advance and previous installments for Game Boy Color. This anthology contains remakes of Donkey Kong 3, Mario Cement Factory, Rainshower, Boxing, and Fire Attack. Players can choose to play the games in an emulation of the original monochrome LCD display or in updated color versions designed for the GBA. ... Read more

Reviews (21)

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO MARIO!!!!!!
WOW!! This is a good game and has a looooooot of games!!!! I like this game!!!

good game
I don't own this game,but i have played it before and I'd say a 4 out of 5 stars,sure you start out as easy but as you advance,u unlock more games new and old and harder settings such as meduim,hard and if you think you can handle it,super hard...yes there are four settings instead of one.

I personally love the little sounds and music this game has to offer,and a game gets harder as you progress.

If you think this game is for kiddies...then I'd have to say your wrong ;)

Ripofffor the old folks who played it and are now rich
This is just a money ripper aimed at kids from the 80's who have played these.Some of them are now rich, feel nostalgic about their childhood, and must get this game.The ones don't have much money still buy it by only eating once a day for about a week. ... Read more

Asin: B00006IJJJ
Subjects:  1. Strategy (Strategic)    2. Video Games    3. Nintendo Game Boy Advance (Gameboy)    4. GBA    5. Classic    6. Retro Arcade   

Mega Man Zero
Average Customer Review:
Video Game (13 September, 2002)

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Editorial Review

Fans of Mega Man side scrollers, rejoice--Mega Man Zero has finally come to the GBA. It may be the best Mega Man game designed on any platform, even though it doesn't exactly star Mega Man himself.

Mega Man Zero has basic Mega Man gameplay, though there are some notable differences. Zero can run, jump, dash, shoot, and swing a sword like Mega Man, but now he can also slide down the sides of walls and jump from wall to wall like Jackie Chan. Despite the fancy new moves, be warned: This is probably the most difficult Mega Man game ever made. Zero can't duck, nor can he shoot above or below himself. This makes fighting the many, many enemies difficult--especially when they approach from various angles.

While a side-scrolling action game, Mega Man Zero has definite role-playing game elements. For starters, Zero's skills improve over time. As Zero uses the sword, he will eventually be able to make double--and subsequently triple--attacks. Between missions, Zero can explore the resistance base, talk to people, and "download" various skills via the new Cyber Elf system. There are 70 Cyber Elves scattered throughout the game, and they're broadly lumped into three groups: Nurse Elves that heal, Hacker Elves that alter surroundings, and Animal Elves that boost Zero's abilities. Zero can even feed his Cyber Elves, and increase their power.

In some ways, the graphics of this game surpass the Mega Man games for the PlayStation. There are some outstanding anime cutscenes, the levels are well designed, and the sprites are tight and amazingly detailed. For looks alone, you should buy this game. The sound isn’t as stellar, but adds good ambience. --Bryan Karsh

Pros:

• New moves
• Gorgeous graphics
• Engaging story (including surprising twist with Mega Man)
• Cyber Elf system

Cons:

• The game is very difficult--you can’t duck, nor can you shoot up or down
• You no longer absorb skills from defeated bosses

... Read more

Reviews (42)

An honest attempt to revive a dying series...
Mega Man fans have had it tough over the last few years, with the obvious decline of the original Mega Man series and the once great Mega Man X series (although Mega Man X Command Mission was one of the more recent brighter spots).

To me, Mega Man Zero is an attempt by Capcom to resurrect the classic Mega Man X gameplay that was lost soon after Mega Man X4. After X4, the series began to seriously suffer as it seemed Capcom just made sequels just for the sake of making them.

Mega Man Zero is a many ways a sucess, but at the same time is not. On the plus side, I was very pleased with the inclusion of many RPG-like elements that the game employs, such as the leveling up of weapons and how crystals act as experence points for the cyber-elves. The addition of an elemental damage system is also another high point (even if it makes some battles pathetically easy). In lacing the game with RPG elements (like they did in Mega Man Legends), Capcom has added a whole new layer to the gameplay.

The inclusion of different weapons was also nice, as you could change your weapon on the fly to adjust for certain situations. The fact you no longer gain abilties from enemy bosses isn't such a problem due to this.

Unfourtately, Mega Man Zero falls short in many categores. The fact you cannot revist many of the games locations once they are completed is very troubling - if you miss a cyber-elf in a non-revisitable area you are out of luck (and your going to have to play it again). This means you must know where everthing is and thus takes bite out the exploration factor that Mega Man games are known for.

While the RPG-like cyber-elf system is a very nice change, but many of the elves crystal requirements are simply too large. You'll easily double your playing time trying to get them all to the higest level (unless you cheat - and you shouldn't - as cheating is wrong! lol). Some of the elves are also too powerful (the one that removes all the spikes from the game is so cheap it isn't even funny).

Mega Man Zero also ditches the tired and true "stage" system that is used in practically every other Mega Man game. While this too is nice change, the fact many places aren't accessible later in the game and many of the places look nearly identicle (and very drab looking as well), it proves that the tired and true stage method is much better.

Storywise, the game is really nothing special. Even with the use of many story screen stillshots and the useage of more dialogue than one would usually find in a Mega Man game, one will find Capcom did more with less in the past Mega Man X games.

Mega Man Zero is a good addition to the Mega Man universe, but one has to wonder how many sequels Capcom will have to make before this series starts to crumble and wither like the otherseries (especially when your pumping out a sequel every year). Will the Mega Man Zero series survive Capcom's habit of smashing their game series with "the sequel shovel"? Only time will tell.

An excellent addition to Mega Man titles
Mega Man Zero is, in my opinion, an excellent game. It expands on the story of a favorite Mega Man sidekick, Zero. This game has a plot that features an evil X, it is continuously changing, and lots of cool enemies and bosses are in the game. Along Zero's journey, you will encounter bosses such as:
- X's Four Guardians
- a giant elephant
- a monkey that makes miniature clones of itself
I really liked this game and the way that it still keeps several elements of the classic Megaman games. I strongly recommend this product to any fan of the Mega Man series who enjoys a good challenge.

Mega Man Hero!
To be truthful the Mega Man X series has started to become disappointing.Now capcom is giving us a new Mega Man series... but without Mega Man! How could this possibly work? By putting in one of the most loved characters from the Mega Man X series of course!

For those who don't know (and I certainly hope you do know this!), Zero was first introduced in the very first Mega Man X way back in 1993.He has since become one of the most beloved characters in video games and now he gets a game all to himself.

Mega Man Zero takes place in the same world as Mega Man X only years into the future where X and Zero are reveered as legends.But years have passed and Zero seems out of comission.He's later found by Ciel, who makes him operational again.Now questions arise such as where X might be.Not only that but X is presumed to be evil and up to no good. Now Zero is going to find out.

Mega Man Zero doesn't present any different gameplay for the Mega Man veteran.Its the same 2-D sidescrolling that Mega Man fans have grown up with.But this is NOT an easy game.Mega Man Zero is perhaps one of the hardest GBA games I've ever played... and I'm a Mega Man veteran.You select a level to go to just like past MM games.You battle through each level mauling through enemies until you get to the boss.

The game is a little different than other Mega Man games, however. For example, Zero ONLY gets a Z-Sabre and his arm cannon.He doesn't get abilities from bosses like Mega Man did.But his weapons do level up.For example his arm cannon (called a Z-Buster) begins with only firing one shot at a time.As his weapon levels up he'll be able to fire four shots and even charge up.He also gets different kinds of weapons such as the triple rod or a shield boomerang.

Mega Man Zero also throws in a few other twist.The game now has "Cyber Elfs" which are given to you by defeating certain enemies or you have to find them.There are over 70 Cyber Elves in the game and they give Zero remarkable abilities.Some restore his health... others slow down enemies.The creators also made it so that once you use the Elf, it's gone.This teaches you to use strategy.

That's not all the gameplay offers.The game also throws in some twist with the levels. Not everyone is "go for the goal".Some levels require you to beat it in a certain time, or reach certain objectives.You may also find a wounded ally and have to help him by taking him back to the beginning of a level once you beat the boss.So the game certainly isn't boring.

Mega Man Zero also looks and sounds BRILLIANT!A GRAND looking game, no doubt.For the GBA these graphics are top notch and the music definitely reminds some of Mega Man X.The games looks smooth and just wait 'til you see the detail on the bosses.The game just looks incredible!

The game does have its drawbacks however.The biggest problem is of course that its too hard for younger gamers.This game is NO cakewalk as it will take you the better half of the day to master it.The other problem is that its too short.The game can be completed in a day if you really work at it.

My last gripe is the control scheme.It takes time to get used to the controls for this game considering a HUGE emphasis is put on the shoulder buttons.It takes a moment to get used to (especially if you're playing on your SP since those shoulder buttons are small).

Mega Man Zero is an incredible game to behold.Any fan of the Mega Man X series should pick this up and give it a try, this is a GBA game to own!

The Good
+Amazing Graphics
+Great Sound
+Zero gets his own game now!
+Improved gameplay
+Classic Mega Man gaming!

The Bad
-HARD Game.Newcomers will have LOTS of trouble
-Too Short
-Control Scheme takes time to get used to ... Read more

Asin: B000066TS4
Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. Nintendo Game Boy Advance (Gameboy)    3. GBA    4. Action    5. Adventure   

The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past
Average Customer Review:
Video Game (12 December, 2002)
list price: $34.99 -- our price: $20.95
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Got Game Boy Advance friends and a Game Link Cable? Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past is a retelling of the venerable series' first game with a quest for up to four players--all from one cartridge. The game is a mix of action and puzzles where Link must travel between the Light and Dark worlds to rescue Princess Zelda. ... Read more

Features

• Talk to all sorts of people and creatures to gain information about how to move forward in his quest.
• Fight enemies and battle through dangerous and complicated dungeons to recover key objects that open new areas.
• Wield swords throw bombs, perform dash attacks, lift and throw, and push and pull objects; acquire items that give additional abilities.
• In Four Swords, face puzzles that require the cooperation of two or more players to solve. They can exchange items, but they also will be competing to pick up as many Rupees as they can to increase their individual scores. It's a unique blend of cooperation and backstabbing.

Reviews (124)

A Great Game
I've always loved A Link To The Past.It's not too easy but not too hard.The graphics are good and it has a nice storyline to it.It's just fun!I only have one complaint about this game for the GBA (and it's a big one):
This version of the game comes with a new game, The Four Swords.The only problem is that it's a MULTIPLAYER GAME!I know multiplayer games are enjoyable for some people, but not everybody knows someone else who also has this game, so many of us are not even able to play the game, which sucks, because from pictures I've seen, it looks like a lot of fun.There should ALWAYS be a single player option!
Okay, I'm done whining now.

Jake Klingelhofer Gives this game two thumbs up!
This is a GREAT game. It takes a while to beat but is very fun and not very hard. it isn't really easy like Zelda: the Minish Cap, but not insanely hard like Zelda: the Wind Waker. A fun continous game with good music, good characters, and it's GREAT
all around. ON a scale from 1 to 10, i would give this game a 11!

Bugger Zelda, revive "Battle Of Olympus"
Zelda was a copy of Battle Of Olympus IMO. Both games very simmaler, and if you like Zelda you'd love B.O.O. ... Read more

Asin: B00006LELB
Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. Nintendo Game Boy Advance (Gameboy)    3. GBA    4. Action    5. Adventure    6. Role Playing Games (Game, RPG, RPGs, CRPG, CRPGs)   

Defender
Average Customer Review:
Video Game (07 November, 2002)
list price: $29.99
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Reviews (5)

The Defender
Defender is a game where you protect Planet Earth with hi-tech jets,lasers,and missiles.If you're looking for a classic that's challenging this is the game for you.Its a bit confusing at first then you get the hang of it.My dad said it is similiar to the one they had when he was a kid but the graphics are way cooler.The thimg that makes it better is its just like at a arcade if you use your weapons you can't have them back,if you die you have to reastart all the way at the very beginning!!

Don't defend this!
Like other "updated" Defenders this is garbage. Anyone who played the Jaguar Defender knows what I'm talking about.

Classic Gaming
Defender is classic gaming at it's best. I especially like the updated background. Really cool for the retro gamer, but may be too symplistic for the new generation of gamers. ... Read more

Asin: B00006N5T2
Sales Rank: 7336
Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. Nintendo Game Boy Advance (Gameboy)    3. GBA    4. Classic    5. Retro Arcade   

Super Mario Sunshine
Average Customer Review:
Video Game (27 August, 2002)
list price: $49.99 -- our price: $19.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Six years. Six long years we’ve had to wait for a new Mario game, and finally it’s here. And even considering the ridiculously unfair expectations, Super Mario Sunshine is almost entirely as good as you’d hope and expect.

The premise of the game is that Mario’s tropical holiday is ruined when he’s stitched up by an evil look-alike for daubing graffiti all over the island. Rather conveniently, there’s a water pump waiting for him to use, which not only washes away the mess but also doubles as a handy jet pack. The jet pack aspect means that whenever you fall off something you have the chance to immediately recover. This built-in safety net means the game can afford to be far more ambitious in its level design than ever before, with massive levels filled with trampolines, tightropes, water-powered windmills, huge coral reefs, and mountains and mountains of platforms.

The whole thing looks amazing, too, with the most realistic water ever seen in a video game, and a near-infinite draw distance. On top of all this are rideable, fruit-juice-spewing Yoshis, extra water nozzles, super-hardcore platform levels where Shadow Mario nicks your jet pack, and goop-generating bosses who seem to live to make Princess Peach’s laundry a nightmare.

After the sweet but rather short pleasures of Luigi’s Mansion and Pikmin, you need have no fear that Mario Sunshine is of a similarly brief nature. There are a total of 120 shines to collect--the same number of stars as in Super Mario 64--and the game world is at least as large and far more interactive. This is without question the best game on the GameCube yet. That may be no more than you'd expect from a Mario game, but it's certainly more than most of us mere mortals deserve. --David Jenkins ... Read more

Features

• Discover the first Mario title for NINTENDO GAMECUBE, developed by a team under the supervision of Mario's celebrated creator Shigeru Miyamoto.
• Explore the game's colorful 3-D world, filled with expansive environments.
• Restore the power of Shine to keep the island clean.
• Wash away island mess to restore the community to its pristine condition using Mario's new water pump device.

Reviews (557)

good! but my rear is sore...
ah this game is FUN! mario gets a water pack called fludd and it is COOL! go buy this game now!

Good,and bad
This is a great game. I loved how they made an odd story. Mario and Peach going on vacation and then Bowser and his son take over The island. It is really odd and ridiculous to have a plot like that. This game reminds me of Super Mario 64. But in another way,it's totally different. You see,it's the same because the plot is identical to SM 64. But it's different because you are collecting Sun's,not stars. Just to make a long story short, the story and everything just dos'nt seem the same. You have to play both opf the versions to now what I mean. It's still a great game,just not the same.

greatest game
this is a great game it is both hard and easy. it is hard because the levels are hard but the controls are very simple. it is a must get it is good to get it now so you don't regret not buying it of of amazon. only problem 1player but it is a must get ... Read more

Asin: B000066JRN
Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. Gamecube (Game Cube, Game-cube)    3. Action    4. Adventure   

Golden Sun: The Lost Age
Average Customer Review:
Video Game (17 April, 2003)
list price: $34.99
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Editorial Review

The story of Golden Sun: The Lost Age picks up right near the end of the first game. Golden Sun veterans will be surprised to learn that The Lost Age is played from the point of view of the party being chased as they try to light the remaining two lighthouses, which will unlock the power of alchemy for the world--or will it instead unlock the world's destruction?

Also, players who have finished the first game can transfer their party into the The Lost Age, either through the separately sold game link cable or through a password. ... Read more

Features

• Continue the adventure you started in Golden Sun, or start out fresh as a new player. Golden Sun: The Lost Age presents the perfect starting point for players who have never experienced Golden Sun, and for players who have, it expands immensely on the adventures of the original game.
• Transfer your characters from Golden Sun with all their items, abilities, and Djinn to unlock more secrets. Use up to eight characters in combat, doubling your party size and adding depth to an already complex and compelling battle and magic system.
• Astounding graphics and impressive summon effects surpass anything seen before on a handheld game system. New magical abilities offer even more ways to battle and to solve challenging and elaborate puzzles.
• Link up with a friend to pit your parties against one another in a two-player duel.

Reviews (118)

this is a good game
This is a good game! First of all, this is a good game^_^ Second of all this is a good game THen if you pass the game this is a good game and also if beat a boss it turns out to be a good game ^_^ good gam e ggood game GOOD GAMEEEEEEE!!!!! AHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The best RPG ever made, ''PERIOD'' !
When I first bought this game I thought that this would be another stupid role playing game after the failure of Final Fantasy Tactics Advance. But then as soon as I turned on the game boy advance the Music, graphics, complexity, and sheer size just completely blew me away. Even the story was better than I have ever seen on any other RPG. Then they brought out a second one which had the best summons out there. If I had to compare any other games to the two Goldens it would be Final Fantasy #7 and FF 1&2 as well as Fire Emblem. The only problems, toooo much talking ( as with all RPG's ), limitations ( like trying to trip over a fellow villager which is best left to Fable ), you can't attack an enemy that you have selected but died before your guy could attack it, and I have heard of people liking to change the plot but why would you want to because the plot is that good. The advantages: phynergy (magic) is more than attack and you can't beat the game with out it, and the summons are the best in the business.

superb japanese atmosphere
This game is worth at least $30 (i got an original secondhand for about e14) and is a must have. It sets the standard for the GBA games. You really do need a walkthrough at a few points - I did, and haven't even finished the game (did about 60%) The puzzles are great and breathe that old 80's sokoban style. Absolutely amazing and lovely for older gamers.

One more thing: Buy all the Feathers in the shops, using them puts an end to the random encounters "Monsters won't attack you so often" it says. So much for that complaint! ... Read more

Asin: B00008KU9Z
Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. Nintendo Game Boy Advance (Gameboy)    3. GBA    4. Action    5. Adventure    6. Role Playing Games (Game, RPG, RPGs, CRPG, CRPGs)    7. Strategy (Strategic)   

Mega Man Zero 3
Average Customer Review:
Video Game (05 October, 2004)
list price: $29.99 -- our price: $19.95
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• New weapons and character actions
• Search for hiddenmaps &secret items throughout the stages
• Fuse parts together to obtain special abilities
• Use weapons obtained from defeated bosses
• Links up to Mega Man Battle Network 4 games for added features & character abilities

Reviews (9)

Awsome enuf said
best megaman game besides the other 2 zero games with the all new recoil rod totally awesome

One of the best megaman games out there!
Now this game is so cool. Its better than the frist and the 2. Its got a better story the controls are great and the cyber elfs are easyer to use and its just fun its one of the best GBA games out there and its hard to find so get it fast!

awesome zero game!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
this is a great game. my personal fave weapon is the boomerang. but the 2nd levels are really hard. i still suggest to buy this game. ... Read more

Asin: B00024W1R4
Sales Rank: 1500
Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. Nintendo Game Boy Advance (Gameboy)    3. GBA    4. Action    5. Adventure   

Mega Man Zero 2
Average Customer Review:
Video Game (17 October, 2003)
list price: $29.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• Side-scrolling action platformer game featuring Mega Man's friend, Zero
• New weapon customization system lets you adjust game level difficulty
• A new improved, user-friendly Cyber-Elf collection system
• New-in game special effects, tutorial,mission select and temporary save features added
• For 1-2 players over link cable

Reviews (17)

A stunningly well done game.
The Megaman Zero series is Capcom's attempt to revive the beloved Megaman X series. However, instead of X you get to play as Zero. But what is the game really like? Well, that's easy. It's unbelievably good, and much better than Mega Man Zero. All the tough, retarded stuff in Zero 1 is reworked, from the crappily done Cyber Elf system to the linear, one boss at a time and never get to try again level select system. Now you select a boss from among the four "current bosses" (don't worry, there's only two sets) and play the level over and over until you beat him. Although you can't return to the stage select screen, it's much better than in Zero 1 where if you got game over on a level, you could never play it again and were basically screwed. The Cyber Elves are now fed and downloaded by talking to Ciel, and they are also much easier to level up as well, in terms of Energy Crystals.

The game is much easier than its predecessor, a good thing since I personally found Zero 1 to be frustratingly cheap at times. Although people who mastered Zero 1 will probably breeze through it in a couple hours, newcomers to the series will be amply challenged yet given a good chance to succeed once they have figured out the order in chich to defeat the first four bosses (trust me, there is one. You COULD beat the bosses in whichever order you please, but the game will be quite a bit more difficult). Individual enemies are simple to defeat; you can shoot them a few times or slice 'em in half with your
Z-saber. However, both the bosses and the minibosses require clever combo attacks to beat, as well as a good understanding of their attack patterns. Perhaps the only time the difficulty is messed up is the last boss, who is one of the easiest in the game.

And maybe because the difficulty is so well balanced, this is an easy game to enjoy. RPG gamers will like the plot twists and move varieties while action lovers will derive pure joy out of such moments as pulling an enemy right next to you with the Grappling hook only to cut them in two with the Z-saber. It's also great when you feel that rush of satisfaction after killing a particularly hard boss and watching the two halves of him drift apart from the effects of your Z-saber.

Visually and in terms of sound the game shines. I've probably mentioned about three times already that when you slice and enemy with your sword it actually slices him into two parts, and for a brief moment you can see the circuitry inside him before the two parts clatter to the floor and explode. Everything else also animates extremely smoothly, and the backgrounds are vibrant and well drawn. The sound effects are about average, but the music is really good. The music always fits the mood of the scene, and the background music in the levels themselves pumps you up and almost improves your reflexes (or maybe it's just the sweat running down your back after playing for two hours and trying to get an A rank in every level). I cannot remember a time when the graphics or sound effects didn't satisfy me.

Overall, this is a gem of a game that should appeal to a wide variety of different gamers. Unless you despise having fun, you'll probably like this game. And by the way, the ultimate bad guy turns out to be one of the last people you'd expect, mainly because once you beat him, if you think about it, it's really obvious why that person is bad enough to be the last boss. That obviousness will proabably having you scratching your head up until the last minute. This game is some tight stuff; enjoy.

A Mega Man game has never been better.
Mega Man Zero 2 is one of the better GBA games to come in a while.It is also one of those rare moments where the sequel more than surpasses the original.In fact, Mega Man Zero 2 surpasses its predecessor in almost every way possible.

The game takes place one year after the first Mega Man Zero.The game begins with Zero wandering through the desert looking for the resistance base when he is suddenly ambushed by the enemy.He lives long enough to get to the resistance base where his weapons are fixed and he's ready to battle the threat of Neo Arcadia once more.

The game has a story similar to the Mega Man X series and the previous Mega Man Zero game.Neo Arcadia, a faction built by humans, wants to "retire" all the reploids (by retire they mean destroy) since they see the robots as a future threat.With peace nearly in reach, Elpizom the new resistance leader seems set on destroying Neo Arcadia. But Elpizo and Zero, you'll quickly learn have different views on what a Utopia should be.

The gameplay isn't much different from Mega Man Zero.Zero can do all the same abilities he did in the last one.He can dash, jump and use any of four weapons of his choice.Zero's four weapons consists of his Z-Buster, Z-Saber, Chain Rod and Shield Boomerang.Each has its own properties, for example the Z-Buster allows Zero to attack long range but the cost is he doesn't do much damage.The Z-Saber allows him to deal massive damage but he needs to be right in the enemies face.The Chain Rod allows Zero to hit enemies from a distance with medium damage.The Chain Rod also allows him to swing from ledges.The Shield Boomerang is a shield that deflects shots.Each wapon can also be charged up to do double the damage.

Each mission plays out similar, but they're not straightforward to defeating the boss.Some missions require you to rescue certain comrades, destroy certain objects and many other side objectives.Each mission has a boss as well.

Mega Man Zero 2 takes a small step above the first one with its Ranking System.After each mission you're graded on a scale that ranges from S to F. S being the highest.But there's more to it than just having a ranking and a nickname.If Zero should be at an A or S rank bosses will use a special attack that Zero can acquire called an "EX" skill. There are ten of these skills in all but new comers shouldn't attempt this until a few runs through the game.

Zero can also take on different "Forms".Each form gives him different properties.One could give him lots of defense and speed and limit his power.One could give him more power but limit other properties.Each form Zero takes changes his color.

The Cyber-Elf system is back and it remains unchanged.You find Cyber Elves in every level by defeating enemies, destroying containers or defeating the mini boss in a level.Cyber Elves are divided into three categories, Nurse (health), Animal (Enhance Abilities) and Hacker (Change level).Zero can also feed his elves and make them stronger.Some elves have permanent effects but Capcom makes sure that if you want all the EX skills and everything Mega Man Zero 2 has to offer then you must master going through the game without using the more powerful ones.Using the more powerful elves drops your ranking.

Visually, Mega Man Zero 2 looks great!Zero looks about the same as he did in the first one but backgrounds and levels are much more vividly detailed than before.

The game also sounds incredible!No Mega Man game has ever sounded this good.Remixing old tracks from the last installment and adding in several new tracks.

Its as if Capcom knew exactly what was wrong with the first one.This game is also much much longer than the first one and offers lots more to do.The game has more stages and they're much longer.

This game is also a CHALLENGE!We all know that once you got the hang of Mega Man Zero (or if you were a Mega Man X veteran) then Mega Man Zero was too easy.But when you first pop this in, even Mega Man veterans will find this new one to be a challenge!The challenge can be a little frustrating at times, especially when trying to maintain your A or S ranking but a good challenge always presents a good game.

Capcom went all out to make this better than the previous one by changing everything that was bad about the first one and keeping all that was good and the result is a well defined sequel that no Mega Man fan should miss!

The Good
+New improved gameplay
+So much more stuff to do
+Longer than the first one
+More challenging than the first one
+Music is better than the first one
+More abilities than in the first one
+Just all out BETTER than the first one

The Bad
-The game may be too challenging for those new to the Mega Man world

Delicious!More Please!
Mega Man Zero 2 sticks mostly to the formula the original had but improves on it in subtle ways.The spear has been replaced by a grappling hook that functions similarly but allows you to hook and swing to places you couldn't reach before.In addition to powering up your weapons over time and the elemental chips, you can now obtain what are known as EX skills and Forms.EX skills are special abilities stolen from the boss characters throughout the game, though you'll only steal an ability if your rating is an A or better.This means that you'll likely not capture many of the EX skills the first time through the game, though they really aren't needed much to finish it and are more a reward to players willing to work hard for the A rating.The Forms on the other hand, are highly useful and are unlocked by performing certain feats within a level, such as killing 20 enemies with a jumping slash, or collecting 20 life capsules.These additions allow you to customize Zero's fighting style in numerous ways and add a lot of replayability to the game.

The cyber-elf system is much better this time around.While it hasn't changed dramatically, the amount of energy crystals you need to feed some of the elves has been thankfully reduced and a few new, very useful elves have been added to the list, such as an elf that boosts your rating to A in case your performance slips up a bit.

The game is just about as hard as the original (perhaps harder) though it's not as hard as it seems.The trick, like in most mega man games, is figuring out your opponents patterns and reacting quickly.Many of the boss characters are weak to attacks from one of the elemental chips too, so dodging and using charged attacks makes short work of most of the bosses.Once you're used to the controls and have a feel for the enemies, the game can get rather easy.

All and all, a delicious action game that serves as a model for action titles on the GBA. ... Read more

Asin: B00009WAV4
Sales Rank: 4137
Subjects:  1. Video Games    2. Nintendo Game Boy Advance (Gameboy)    3. GBA    4. Action    5. Adventure    6. Role Playing Games (Game, RPG, RPGs, CRPG, CRPGs)   

City of Heroes
Average Customer Review:
CD-ROM (28 April, 2004)
list price: $29.99 -- our price: $29.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• Massively multiplayer online role-playing game
• Become a superhero, take on personalized missions, and rid the city of evil organizations
• Create your own hero, choosing from hundreds of different powers and costumes
• Band together with other players to fight evil and become the premierehero group in the city
• Explore the streets of Paragon City, a sprawling online metropolis that offers unlimited adventures and countless surprises

Reviews (157)

City of Heroes is a Must Have Game
Although I can not say that I have played a lot of multiplayer games, I can say that out of the 3-4 (so-far) games I have played this is the best of them all. It keeps your attention, and it's ever changing. When I was in search of a new multiplayer game, I called around and asked what was the most popular at that time... they all said "City of Heroes". By looking at the cover of the box, and reading the back of the box, I was not impressed. I thought it seemed too childish (I am 32 years old). But what the heck? It was a father's day gift. I am so glad I purchased it. Now me and my whole family gather around the PC and take turns playing. You start off by picking a costume, there are literally hundred of costumes that you can customize... no two costumes are ever the same on COH (city of heroes). Then, you get to pick what type of hero you would be if you could be a hero. Do you prefer human, mutant, science, technology, etc? Then you pick two power sets of the powers that suite your you and your character. After you go through the whole hero set-up, you go through a quick training sessions where they teach you how to use the controls and your powers. Then, you are off to save Paragon City from evil villains either on your own, or with a group of other on-line heroes... zapping enemies on the streets, or doing one of the many missions... and if your good enough, you can create or join a Task Force that can last up to 3 or more hours of non-stop game-play for experience points to increase your levels and gain new powers. The main focal point is the other on-line heroes. This game is a great way to meet new friends... the game as all about team work. You may start off by yourself, but eventually you HAVE to group together with other heroes. The game forces you to be a team player, or a team leader.I felt a little weird at first and a little shy, but they make it so easy to search for other teams, you just click the button "Seek Team". The game is always changing too... The makers of the game are able to add new sections to cities, add new features, new villains, and more at any time. Also, the Game Masters are watching! I once had a problem getting into a mission because the mission door was a wall... before I knew it a character showed up and fixed the problem right in front of my eyes. This is a great game if you have ever wanted to be a super hero, meet new friends, and be totally entertained.And there next project is "City of Villians" (COV), which will connect both COH and COV together to fight hand to hand with your friends.The one bad side of this game is the price, $15.00 a month is a little high, but its the going rate for online games.Hope this helped you.

good, could be funchier
Well, its fun to roam around the city and kill baddies, but you really need to find people to be on yr team and sometimes this is easy.However, other times you can be online for, like hours and no one wants to hunt with you.WTF??I know yr level 4 and I'm 1, but don't be a stuck up jackass!!? Help a brother out,here!!!!And then if you do helps omeone out in a fight, they just look at you for a second and run away.Not even a "thanks."That sucks!!!So, aside from some lame stuck up jerks, the game is fun.I like to make my character dance and say obnoxious things to people.

Actually, that's more fun than fighting anyway.

A MMOG that isn't a part-time job
Most MMOGs are a little boring to start out with. Brand-new characters don't have the power or the equipment to take on anything more interesting than a rat or a snake. Quests are frequently too difficult at this stage--hope you like hitting giant bees!

Not so in City of Heroes. Your new hero arrives in Paragon City fully equipped to take on the bad guys in the tutorial level. You even get your choice of a cool costume without having to spend any game currency. When you're done with the tutorial, head to Atlas Park or Galaxy City to meet your first "contact" and start doing missions for experience and "influence" (the game currency). You don't have to worry about equipment, because there isn't any (other than "enhancement" disks that boost powers you already possess).

Without equipment to worry about, there's no rush to level your character. You can level fast if you feel like it, but many players are content to enjoy the journey. If your friends are above or below you in level, don't worry--you can "sidekick" the lower ones to within one level of yourself, or "exemplar" down to a lower hero's level.

These features make the game perfect for someone who has a job and a life, someone who wants to log on and play for a while because it's fun. And it IS fun. Combat animations are realistic and physically plausible. Effects are logical AND cool-looking. And you'll never have to commit to a seven-hour "raid" stretch in your computer chair. Even at higher levels, most tasks can be accomplished within an hour, maybe two at the outside.

The instanced missions appear just for you and your team: there's none of the "camping" that exists in other MMOGs. It's really great to have somewhere to go and not worry that some more powerful players will barge ahead of you and wreck your fun.

Customer support from NCSoft is the best I've ever seen--in any kind of organization! GMs are online, and when you petition, they answer in minutes. What's more, they actually help you. The development team is frank and open about their plans for the game. They listen to the player base, and when they make a mistake, they admit it in public, unlike other games where they'll tell you it's "working as intended" until the whole thing blows up in their faces.

There is a monthly fee to keep playing, but I've found that the $15 or so is completely offset by the lack of money I'm spending on other games. Not to mention, the monthly fee is all you have to pay--City of Heroes won't charge you extra for expanded content or "premium" servers.

At this point in the evolution of the game, there isn't a lot to do besides combat. The combat is really fun, but sometimes you just want to do something else. The dev team, however, has stated their plans for alternate systems of character advancement in future expansions.

Still: great graphics, exciting combat, interesting story arcs, a dev team with ears, no worrying about your virtual possessions, no camping, and you can log on for even a little while and still have fun? I don't know why every other game in the universe doesn't follow the CoH model. Big, big thumbs up. ... Read more

Asin: B0001DLLWC
Sales Rank: 461
Subjects:  1. Computer Role Playing Games (Game, rpgs, rpg, crpg, crpgs)   

City of Heroes Collector's DVD Edition
Average Customer Review:
CD-ROM (09 November, 2004)
list price: $34.99 -- our price: $29.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Features

• Special DVD Edition Features
• Limited Collectors "Statesman" Hero Clix figure
• 16 page Custom Color Comic Book
• New Paragon City Zone Map - fold out Poster (two sided)
• Winning entries from the City of Heroes Film Festival

Reviews (11)

An Absolute Rip-Off
This game sounds like a whole lot of fun, but what you need to know is that it is a subscription game. ie if you don't agree to pay $15 a month then it won't work!! You do get the first 30 days free but after that expect to be paying out $$$. My kids were very disapointed and you would think that having purchased the DVD they would at least give you some version of the game that you could play for no extra cost....

It's fun, for a while... but it gets boring.
I bought this game for my husband for Christmas.He enjoyed it enough that I bought a copy for myself.I enjoyed it for about 10 levels.Then it got boring.Typically, I am a hack & slash player, but I still require a story of some sort.And this game did not have sufficient story to keep me interested.

Yes, the graphics are pretty cool.Yes, the costume permutations are seemingly endless.But, I let my subscription expire after only 2 months, and moved on to World of Warcraft.

Say goodbye to your friends and family...
Because you could very well lose touch with them after playing this game!

City of Heroes allows you to create your own Superhero with your own set of superpowers, and basically go fight crime in the streets of Paragon City.As you advance in level, you are given new powers and new missions.

If you like your games to be 'your own,' then this is definitely the game for you.It is virtually impossible for you to run into the same hero.You build your hero from the ground up, give them a basic set of powers, and boom...you are off to complete missions, either as a team or solo.

CoH is truly the best MMOG out there.The graphics are stunning, the game itself is ever changing, and the hero's powersets are just plain fun to work with.You can't believe how much time you spend immersed in missions or just plain hunting.In ordinary life, you can't hit a mugger with supercharged lightening bolts to help a lady get her purse back.Thanks to CoH, you don't ever have to wonder what that joy is like.

You can't go wrong with this game...it's just too much fun to pass up.However...word of caution:DO pay attention to the system requirements.If your Video in particular isn't up to par, you'd better go shopping for a Videocard as well. ... Read more

Asin: B00032IYIA
Sales Rank: 273
Subjects:  1. Computer Games    2. Adventure    3. Collections (Collections)    4. Bundle (Bundles)    5. Computer Role Playing Games (Game, rpgs, rpg, crpg, crpgs)