Sega has a proven track record of producing fun, addictive platform titles with terrific characters. First there was Sonic the Hedgehog. Earlier this year we were introduced to Nights. Now Sega trots out a new character with attitude - Mr. Bones. Created by a team of pretty ingenious dudes at Zono Inc., Mr. Bones is a cool, musically interactive, multi-level scroller that's surprisingly fun to play.
This is not your typical scroller with a corny storyline. With over 20 different levels to play, Mr. Bones makes players swim for power-ups, and spin through a vortex while trying to dodge deadly objects. To further enhance the experience, the levels don't all have the same perspective - not unlike Crash Bandicoot. As in Bandicoot, one level might have players move Mr. Bones toward them, and the next may have them chasing Mr. Bones from behind.
Mr. Bones himself is hauntingly real. His movements are very lifelike, particularly for a skeleton. In addition, the game graphics and cinematic cut scenes are beautifully drawn. These elements combine to make a game that's rich in detail and color. The graveyard levels in particular have an eerie feel, thanks in large part to the fog and old tombstones. These high-quality production values, eye-popping special effects, and orchestrated music help to create some very cool and spooky stuff.
A key aspect of this game is the music. Ronnie Montrose lent his hand for the soundtrack, and gave it a definite blues-rock feel. This is especially evident in the two musically-interactive levels. In one, the player must strap on an electric guitar and serenade a gang of skeletons with red eyes. The correct guitar riff must be played to complete the level. The other musically-inspired level sets players in front of a drumset and makes them match rhythms set by the computer. Both levels are imaginative and contain some of the game's funniest moments.
Fans of Sega action games should at least give Mr. Bones a try. Combing imaginative gameplay mechanics with cool graphics and killer music, Mr. Bones will not disappoint.
