Astro Boy: Omega Factor proves that 2d games still have plenty of vitality.
User Rating: 8.5 | Astro Boy: Tetsuwan Atom - Atom Heart no Himitsu GBA
Every once in a while, a game comes along that reminds me that the ideas for 2d games have not been used up. Astroboy: Omega Factor is one of those games. Part shooter, part beat-em up and part RPG, this 2d GBA game is a true gem. The graphics look pretty bad when looking at a screen shot, but are truly beautiful on the GBA screen. They are all about fluidity of motion, which explains their poor appearance when seen static. All the enemies and Astroboy himself have fantastic animations, and the backgrounds are lush and dynamic. There is, of course (this is Treasure after all), major slowdown in certain area – this is not a downside necessarily however, because some (like myself) find it charming. The sounds are okay, but I found myself turning down the volume after listening for an hour or so, but that is the case with the fast majority of GBA games, so there is nothing wrong in this department. The game is divided into two main categories – beat-em up levels, and shooter levels. The beat-em up levels are great and massive combos are possible. The shooter levels are also fantastic, but they feel like less skill is required, and of all the levels, I found myself getting through them with the least number of deaths. The RPG element is rather interesting and novel for this type of game. Whenever you meet someone new, you get to power up your abilities, and you can do so however you want. I found myself focusing on the powers that I used most, and that worked well – but I could also see the benefit to taking a more well rounded approach. This play mechanic is interesting because it could truly effect the way that you approach the game. The game lasted me a good 6 hours of play (be sure to play through a second time – it’s very different), but I feel like I would want to play it again in the near future. The game is just fun, and it’s short enough that you can pick it up and play it through anytime for a quick blast of gaming enjoyment. Astroboy: Omega Factor would make an excellent purchase for any GBA owner that likes beat-em ups, shooters or both.
