Grand Theft Auto Game by: Rockstar/Tarantula Studios Reviewed by: Robb Rob__dale@hotmail.com (2 underscores) Size: 32 megabits (4 megabytes) Save: High scores and level progress are automatically saved Released: 1999 Works with: all Gameboy systems **************************************************************************** Opening Snide Remarks: Well, I loved the PC and Playstation versions,but that doesn't say much since "non-pocket system to gameboy" conversions can be very disappointing (i.e. Turok,Turok 2). Then again, this is a 4 megabyte cartridge (Oh, the possibilities!). Let's see how it does. **************************************************************************** Gameplay Description: Gameplay is the best I've ever seen on Gameboy. Maps,Cars,and Missions are very true to the original PSX and PC versions. For those of you new to the game, you take on the role of one of 9 characters, completing criminal missions given to you by the crime bosses, all while avoiding the man. Missions involve killing rival gangs, delivering various items, and other good 'ol family-related activities. Liked: everything Hated: nothing **************************************************************************** Graphics Description: The only difference between this and the PSX/PC versions is that sides of the buildings aren't visible. You wont miss it at all. The graphics are crisp and very pleasing to the eye. The game's colors are good, but slightly less colorful than I would have liked. Liked: Very similar to PSX/PC versions Hated: Slight lack in color **************************************************************************** Sound/Music Description: GTA's music seemed unfitting and got a bit repetitive after a while. Sound effects on the other hand, were quite good and realistic. Fortunately, the music and sound effects have separate on/off switches in the options menu, so you can have sound effects,but no music,or vice-versa. Liked: Sound effects, Separate music/sound effects switches Hated: inappropriate and repetitive music **************************************************************************** Play Control/Game Design: Play control is quite good, but gameboy's lack of more buttons can make it a bit tricky. To get into a car, you must walk towards the car and press the select button(In the game's instruction booklet, It just says "enter/exit car=select").Backing up your car can also be a bit tricky, since you have to use the down button to back up, but you use the A button to accelerate. These problems are annoying at first,but easy to get used to. Buttons are responsive-no problems with that. Game/level design is very good. Cities are almost identical to those in the PSX/PC versions. Liked: Responsive buttons, game/level design Hated: Difficulty in backing up,getting into cars **************************************************************************** Improve: Better music. I don't think the play control/game design problems I mentioned could be fixed, but it's really not that big of a problem anyway. Also, the game should have some blood in it. To disguise this, nearly all of the people in the game wear red shirts, which seems a bit lame. RIYL: PSX/PC versions **************************************************************************** Final Words: This is a great game. For one, it was rated "teen", breaking the "everyone" rating barrier that seemed to surround gameboy. Also it dispels the belief that gameboy version of games that started on non-pocket systems suck. This game rules and I'm really glad I bought it. **************************************************************************** Score Gameplay: ***** Graphics: ***** Sound/Music: **** Play Control/Game Design: **** Personal Opinion: ***** Total: 23 out of 25 stars Final Score: 92% **************************************************************************** Currently Known Codes: none