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Can Nintendo really make a SNES quality games console that fits in your hand?
Can its games really challenge those of the Playstation?
Can they offer it in 4 different colours with a multitude of cool accessories?
Of course they can, they're Nintendo, and their latest little marvel is the Game boy Advance.
This little beauty, hyped up for months before its release, was destined to outsell its predecessors in its first two weeks on the shelves, provide amazing 3D games, with full colour, and be able to fit in our pockets.
And it certainly lives up to this destiny.
The Game Boy Advance, now available, is Nintendo's latest remake of the ever-popular game boy. As soon as it was released, units sold by the millions, and soon it became one of the best and fastest selling consoles ever.
But, is it worth your money? Are the 32-bit graphics as good as they are supposed to be? Does the wide colour screen give it that extra little edge? Are the games comparable to the SNES? That's what I aim to reveal to you in this opinion.
Firstly, THE UNIT ITSELF
Measuring no more than 15CM long and 8CM high, the game boy advance is not much bigger than the Game boys that came before it. Although, it is held horizontally, rather than vertically, unlike the Game Boy colour, pocket and mono.
So, its held the other way round, and is a little bigger? What else makes it better?
Well, the wide screen LCD display is one thing. With a maximum of 500 colours displayed at once, on a screen 50% bigger than that of the GBC (game boy colour), it packs a lot of visual prowess. Although it's still incomparable to a TV, it's certainly a hell of a good specification for a handheld.
What else? Well, with the unit held a different way, the buttons had to be replaced. It has all the classic GB buttons - D-PAD on the left and A+B buttons on the right of the screen, and a start and select button. But it also borrows the idea of 'shoulder buttons' from the N64. These are two extra buttons located on top of the consoles, allowing more in-game options.
Oh, and lets not forget the power button!
The Game boy advance is available in 4 colours, compared to the 6 of the GBC. However, it is a good selection, and they all look good. The unit is available in White, Purple, or see-through blue, as well as Red, which is obviously pink!
Onto the GRAPHICS
Well, 32-bit technology and a wide screen erm screen? With this backing them up, we should be able to expect great graphics on Nintendo's little gem.
And heed no fear, you won't be disappointed! (you can breathe again now - phew!)
Well, you wont be disappointed unless you thought it would have the same graphics of the Playstation, which is also 32-bit. It may have the same number of bits, but it does not have the graphic processors of the PSX, so keep the comparisons to the SNES.
Yes, the GBA primarily a 2D games medium, but it also has the capability for 'basic' 3D. Games like Kuri-Kuri-Kurin use the full power of the GBA in a 2D game, and it looks amazing. Mario Kart: super Circuit, used the 3D capacity, and also manages to look good.
So yes, the GBA is far superior to the Game Boy colour, and although it not comparable to the PSX, you're not going to get better in a handheld! Sorry.
Next - SOUND
The Game boy provided beeps. The Game boy colour thrilled us with annoying background music and some other limited effects. It was mono sound.
The GBA is also mono sound, with a small speaker on the console, yet it provides with a little bit more variety in the background music, some voices, and some new sound effects. But in all, you're still going to want to turn off the sound after a few minutes playing.
On the subject of sound, there is a 'sound game' being released on the GBA, so hopefully, we'll see some new sounds appearing on that.
Very important - MULTIPLAYER!
The game boy colour did give us a degree of multiplayer, through the link cable, and the Game boy advance takes this element to a new level.
A link cable is the medium for multiplayer, and it allows up to four GBA's to be linked together through a series of wires and adaptors. Of course, this ability is a huge selling point, and Nintendo have 'milked' it well, you may have seen their adverts (which I think are quite good :) ).
Another advantage with this is that only one of the four players needs to own the game - the data is all shared over the link-up. However, the more game-packs used, the more options are 'unlocked' so its better if all players own the game - another selling point for games.
BACKWARD COMPATIBILITY
The PS2 did it. Why shouldn't the GBA?
Well, it did. All game boy colour games are compatible with the Game boy advance unit.
This means that rather than a few games available for launch; the GBA had a huge back-catalogue of cheap GBC games. Another handy feature of playing a GBC game on your shiny new console is the larger screen. When you first play, the small game is centred in the middle of the screen, but press the shoulder button and: Viola! The game is stretched to fit the screen. Loverly jubberly!
And another word on compatibility, the GBA is to be linked to the GameCube, Nintendo's much anticipated 'next-generation' console. How this will work, nobody knows, but it is almost certain that somebody owning both consoles will have an advantage over someone owning only a GameCube - We'll just have to wait and see!
LIGHTING
At last you think, a downside to the GBA. Unfortunately so - :(
Unfortunately, the Game boy advance is not backlit, and this causes all sorts of problems. Aside from the obvious fact you cannot pay it in the dark, it also means that in anything less than bright daylight, you need a light source behind you, or the console is rendered almost unplayable.
Luckily, Nintendo's skimping on the backlight was necessary to provide more battery life - which is another of the consoles selling points. With a backlit display, the 2AA batteries would last no time at all. And you wouldn't like that would you?
The answer? Buy an accessory! The basic worm lights use up the GBA's power through the link-port, so they are not a good idea. But there are lights available (many of them with magnifiers too) which have their own power source AND cause less glare or reflection. But if after paying out for your GBA, you cannot afford one (like me) just sit near a light!
BATTERY LIFE
Fortunately, it is longer than the GBC.
Taking 2AA batteries, just like the GBC, you're new console will last up to 20 hours! Pretty good eh? And what's more, 2 batteries are included for you're playing pleasure!
Although this is a long life, rechargeable batteries made just for the GBA can last a little bit extra, and overall, the price will be lower.
Or buy a specially designed battery pack, which takes a while to charge, and doesn't last as long.
For me, I stick to my good old Duracell's!
Oh, and Nintendo also make a mains adaptor, for when you're playing at home. Handy? What about an in-car adaptor? (available soon!)
So what about the PRICE
At the moment, a GBA will set you back around £75 - £90 depending on where you buy it, and games range from £20 - £35.
A little expensive? I thought that too, but it IS a good console, and prices WILL drop soon, so all in all, its not so bad.
There are many accessories to consider, from lights to adaptors, link cables to cases, so don't forget to add them on when you price up your dream :D.
one of the most important things:- GAMES
So what games can we expect from our latest purchase?
Well, the two I own hold no faults.
F-Zero: A remake of the N64 classic, this offers high speed racing, top graphics, and many options, also a good multiplayer
Mario Kart Advance: A great remake of the SNES/N64 classics, it has all the laughs and game play of its previous versions. Also provides excellent multiplayer gaming
(read my opinion on it for more!)
These are just two of a large catalogue of games, not to mention the GBC selection. All the games I have played have offered great graphics, and although many are remakes of older games for the smaller screen, the are original in their own right.
CONCLUSION
Nintendo have done it again. Always dominating the handheld market, and doing a good job too. Set to be as big as the first game boy, a GBA is definitely worth getting.
And bearing in mind games are only of the first generation, the console can only amaze us more in the future.
The graphics are extremely impressive, and thought the sound has not 'advanced' that much, you wont find better on a handheld console.
What else can be said that hasn't already?
Oh yeah, go buy one ;)
DOWNSIDE:
The problem with lighting
Sound (but not badly)
UPSIDES:
Backwards compatible
Great graphics
Amazing games
Portable multiplayer gaming!
Many an accessory
Loooooooong battery life
and more!
GO FIGURE!
Can its games really challenge those of the Playstation?
Can they offer it in 4 different colours with a multitude of cool accessories?
Of course they can, they're Nintendo, and their latest little marvel is the Game boy Advance.
This little beauty, hyped up for months before its release, was destined to outsell its predecessors in its first two weeks on the shelves, provide amazing 3D games, with full colour, and be able to fit in our pockets.
And it certainly lives up to this destiny.
The Game Boy Advance, now available, is Nintendo's latest remake of the ever-popular game boy. As soon as it was released, units sold by the millions, and soon it became one of the best and fastest selling consoles ever.
But, is it worth your money? Are the 32-bit graphics as good as they are supposed to be? Does the wide colour screen give it that extra little edge? Are the games comparable to the SNES? That's what I aim to reveal to you in this opinion.
Firstly, THE UNIT ITSELF
Measuring no more than 15CM long and 8CM high, the game boy advance is not much bigger than the Game boys that came before it. Although, it is held horizontally, rather than vertically, unlike the Game Boy colour, pocket and mono.
So, its held the other way round, and is a little bigger? What else makes it better?
Well, the wide screen LCD display is one thing. With a maximum of 500 colours displayed at once, on a screen 50% bigger than that of the GBC (game boy colour), it packs a lot of visual prowess. Although it's still incomparable to a TV, it's certainly a hell of a good specification for a handheld.
What else? Well, with the unit held a different way, the buttons had to be replaced. It has all the classic GB buttons - D-PAD on the left and A+B buttons on the right of the screen, and a start and select button. But it also borrows the idea of 'shoulder buttons' from the N64. These are two extra buttons located on top of the consoles, allowing more in-game options.
Oh, and lets not forget the power button!
The Game boy advance is available in 4 colours, compared to the 6 of the GBC. However, it is a good selection, and they all look good. The unit is available in White, Purple, or see-through blue, as well as Red, which is obviously pink!
Onto the GRAPHICS
Well, 32-bit technology and a wide screen erm screen? With this backing them up, we should be able to expect great graphics on Nintendo's little gem.
And heed no fear, you won't be disappointed! (you can breathe again now - phew!)
Well, you wont be disappointed unless you thought it would have the same graphics of the Playstation, which is also 32-bit. It may have the same number of bits, but it does not have the graphic processors of the PSX, so keep the comparisons to the SNES.
Yes, the GBA primarily a 2D games medium, but it also has the capability for 'basic' 3D. Games like Kuri-Kuri-Kurin use the full power of the GBA in a 2D game, and it looks amazing. Mario Kart: super Circuit, used the 3D capacity, and also manages to look good.
So yes, the GBA is far superior to the Game Boy colour, and although it not comparable to the PSX, you're not going to get better in a handheld! Sorry.
Next - SOUND
The Game boy provided beeps. The Game boy colour thrilled us with annoying background music and some other limited effects. It was mono sound.
The GBA is also mono sound, with a small speaker on the console, yet it provides with a little bit more variety in the background music, some voices, and some new sound effects. But in all, you're still going to want to turn off the sound after a few minutes playing.
On the subject of sound, there is a 'sound game' being released on the GBA, so hopefully, we'll see some new sounds appearing on that.
Very important - MULTIPLAYER!
The game boy colour did give us a degree of multiplayer, through the link cable, and the Game boy advance takes this element to a new level.
A link cable is the medium for multiplayer, and it allows up to four GBA's to be linked together through a series of wires and adaptors. Of course, this ability is a huge selling point, and Nintendo have 'milked' it well, you may have seen their adverts (which I think are quite good :) ).
Another advantage with this is that only one of the four players needs to own the game - the data is all shared over the link-up. However, the more game-packs used, the more options are 'unlocked' so its better if all players own the game - another selling point for games.
BACKWARD COMPATIBILITY
The PS2 did it. Why shouldn't the GBA?
Well, it did. All game boy colour games are compatible with the Game boy advance unit.
This means that rather than a few games available for launch; the GBA had a huge back-catalogue of cheap GBC games. Another handy feature of playing a GBC game on your shiny new console is the larger screen. When you first play, the small game is centred in the middle of the screen, but press the shoulder button and: Viola! The game is stretched to fit the screen. Loverly jubberly!
And another word on compatibility, the GBA is to be linked to the GameCube, Nintendo's much anticipated 'next-generation' console. How this will work, nobody knows, but it is almost certain that somebody owning both consoles will have an advantage over someone owning only a GameCube - We'll just have to wait and see!
LIGHTING
At last you think, a downside to the GBA. Unfortunately so - :(
Unfortunately, the Game boy advance is not backlit, and this causes all sorts of problems. Aside from the obvious fact you cannot pay it in the dark, it also means that in anything less than bright daylight, you need a light source behind you, or the console is rendered almost unplayable.
Luckily, Nintendo's skimping on the backlight was necessary to provide more battery life - which is another of the consoles selling points. With a backlit display, the 2AA batteries would last no time at all. And you wouldn't like that would you?
The answer? Buy an accessory! The basic worm lights use up the GBA's power through the link-port, so they are not a good idea. But there are lights available (many of them with magnifiers too) which have their own power source AND cause less glare or reflection. But if after paying out for your GBA, you cannot afford one (like me) just sit near a light!
BATTERY LIFE
Fortunately, it is longer than the GBC.
Taking 2AA batteries, just like the GBC, you're new console will last up to 20 hours! Pretty good eh? And what's more, 2 batteries are included for you're playing pleasure!
Although this is a long life, rechargeable batteries made just for the GBA can last a little bit extra, and overall, the price will be lower.
Or buy a specially designed battery pack, which takes a while to charge, and doesn't last as long.
For me, I stick to my good old Duracell's!
Oh, and Nintendo also make a mains adaptor, for when you're playing at home. Handy? What about an in-car adaptor? (available soon!)
So what about the PRICE
At the moment, a GBA will set you back around £75 - £90 depending on where you buy it, and games range from £20 - £35.
A little expensive? I thought that too, but it IS a good console, and prices WILL drop soon, so all in all, its not so bad.
There are many accessories to consider, from lights to adaptors, link cables to cases, so don't forget to add them on when you price up your dream :D.
one of the most important things:- GAMES
So what games can we expect from our latest purchase?
Well, the two I own hold no faults.
F-Zero: A remake of the N64 classic, this offers high speed racing, top graphics, and many options, also a good multiplayer
Mario Kart Advance: A great remake of the SNES/N64 classics, it has all the laughs and game play of its previous versions. Also provides excellent multiplayer gaming
(read my opinion on it for more!)
These are just two of a large catalogue of games, not to mention the GBC selection. All the games I have played have offered great graphics, and although many are remakes of older games for the smaller screen, the are original in their own right.
CONCLUSION
Nintendo have done it again. Always dominating the handheld market, and doing a good job too. Set to be as big as the first game boy, a GBA is definitely worth getting.
And bearing in mind games are only of the first generation, the console can only amaze us more in the future.
The graphics are extremely impressive, and thought the sound has not 'advanced' that much, you wont find better on a handheld console.
What else can be said that hasn't already?
Oh yeah, go buy one ;)
DOWNSIDE:
The problem with lighting
Sound (but not badly)
UPSIDES:
Backwards compatible
Great graphics
Amazing games
Portable multiplayer gaming!
Many an accessory
Loooooooong battery life
and more!
GO FIGURE!
I'm sorry if you have already read my review, but I thought it might interest some of you that haven't
And on the subject of challenging the PSX, i tihnk it id a possibility we have to look at.
OK, so it is 32-bit - like the SNES and PSX. BUT, being ade a good 5 years or more after the PSX, the GBA can do more with these bits.
When Sony made the PSX, they put in 32bit technology, but couldn't utilise it preoperly. Now that Nintendo can, we should see game son the GBA challenging the PSX's first, second and maybe even third generation games.
But I cannot see them challenging the games coming out on the PSX now, as being on a smaller scale, the GBA does not have the fgraphics proccessors or screen resolouion and capabiltity to handle the graphics.
But, forgetting about PSX comparisons, I can say we should look forwars to some very good games in the near future, and EXCELLENt ones in the not-too distant fututre.
Darkness_2k
(PS: Why did it take 3 days or more before anyone replied and then got 8? Oh well, not complaining!)
And on the subject of challenging the PSX, i tihnk it id a possibility we have to look at.
OK, so it is 32-bit - like the SNES and PSX. BUT, being ade a good 5 years or more after the PSX, the GBA can do more with these bits.
When Sony made the PSX, they put in 32bit technology, but couldn't utilise it preoperly. Now that Nintendo can, we should see game son the GBA challenging the PSX's first, second and maybe even third generation games.
But I cannot see them challenging the games coming out on the PSX now, as being on a smaller scale, the GBA does not have the fgraphics proccessors or screen resolouion and capabiltity to handle the graphics.
But, forgetting about PSX comparisons, I can say we should look forwars to some very good games in the near future, and EXCELLENt ones in the not-too distant fututre.
Darkness_2k
(PS: Why did it take 3 days or more before anyone replied and then got 8? Oh well, not complaining!)
Yes, I do have Mario Kart, I think its excellent.
Here is my review:
Super Mario Kart. A game which still inspires a tingling feeling in the heart of anyone who owned the game. Probably the first (and best) character-based racing game that was widely accepted and played. The idea of the game was that you got to play as a Nintendo character that you had grown to love, and race around a huge selection of tracks, collecting power-ups and, well coming first!
The popularity of this game was noticeable, and so, Nintendo re-created the game on the N64 platform. Still the same game at heart, the N64 version offered improved graphics, and extra little bonuses not seen in the SNES version.
Now, with the release of a new Nintendo console, the widely acclaimed Game Boy Advance, it was almost necessary for the big N to release a Mario Kart game on the console.
And so, release a game they did! Mario Kart: Super Circuit, in my view, is the best Mario Kart game to date. More comparable to the ‘64 version than the original, this down-sized racer offers all that its predecessors did. The Nintendo characters we have grown to love are in there, along with new tracks, your favourite power-ups, and a few surprises too!
For those of you not familiar with the game, the basic concept is the same as any racing game - win! However, far from being a realistic simulator, Mario Kart offers players the chance to jump into a go-kart in the cartoon-like style of most Mario games. The object is to play through a trophy, and attain the highest mark you can at the end.
When you first turn on the game, the music instantly lets you know that this is a classic Nintendo product. When the menu screen appears, you can see all eight racers lined up, ready to race! For the moment, I’ll go through the Single player game.
After choosing 1 player, you are faced with a menu containing Mario Grand Prix, Time trial and quick race. Time trial lets you play on any track you have unlocked, in a race to beat your own best time on a track. And, as an added bonus, upon playing the same track again, you can see the ‘ghost’ of your previous attempt! Quick race is similar to Mario Grand Prix, except that you only play on one track, not across four in a trophy. Mario Grand Prix however is the main part of the game. Open it up, and you have to choose an engine class. The same as the ’64 version, you are given 50cc, 100cc and 150cc. 50cc offers tight cornering, yet lower speeds, and 150cc is the opposite of this. The next menu lets you choose a character to race as. Mario, Luigi, Peach, DK, Bowser, Yoshi, Wario and Toad are all here, or you can choose a random character. The next screen lets you choose a cup. These range in difficulty, and only by coming first in all 4 can you unlock the special cup!
The start of the race is similar to all Mario Kart games. You are placed 8th on the starting grid, and by accelerating at just the right time, can get a boost to catch up on first place! The first thing you notice about the game are the superb graphics. Far from jagged edges, the graphics are smooth, almost as good as the N64 game on a smaller screen! The in-game music is the same type as the previous games, and fits perfectly into the racing atmosphere. The control is just as smooth, though if it’s your first time playing the genre, you may find cornering difficult at first! As you race round the track, you’ll notice the classic ‘?’ boxes. Drive over one of these to collect a power-up! All your favourites are there - Red and green shells, banana skins, the feared lightning strike, stars, mushrooms and Boo’s! Used at the right moment, any of these can mean the difference between first and last place! Another thing to pick up along the track are coins. Each racer starts off with a certain amount of coins, and each time you crash or are hit, you lose one or more of them. When you are down to zero, you spin upon every collision, so its a good idea to pick them up! Use the classic power-slide to take corners with ease, and jump over any obstacles, but be careful not to fall off the track - it takes ages for you be lifted back on, and every second is vital!
At the end of the trophy, you will be given 1st, 2nd or 3rd place, and a rank ranging from 3 stars to E. The better mark you get, the quicker you will be able to unlock any bonuses there are!
Now that the single player is done, I’ll talk quickly about the multiplayer aspect. My favourite part is the ability to swap your ghosts from time trial. Go on, swap ‘em over and see how you compare to your mates! As far as racing is concerned, you can race on all the tracks you have unlocked, but also play in the great battle mode! Each kart has 3 balloons, and you must pop all your opponents balloons before they pop yours - great for relieving anger!
And that just about wraps the game up - apart from the bonuses - but you’ll have to find out what they are yourself!
The bottom line is, Mario Kart Super Circuit carries on the trend of the Mario Kart genre. A great game with the classic great game-play, amazing graphics, and the atmosphere that helped make the previous games a success! A full-marks AAA title!
(oh and as a side note, the screen shots on SR do not do the game any justice - get some new ones Tony!)
Here is my review:
Super Mario Kart. A game which still inspires a tingling feeling in the heart of anyone who owned the game. Probably the first (and best) character-based racing game that was widely accepted and played. The idea of the game was that you got to play as a Nintendo character that you had grown to love, and race around a huge selection of tracks, collecting power-ups and, well coming first!
The popularity of this game was noticeable, and so, Nintendo re-created the game on the N64 platform. Still the same game at heart, the N64 version offered improved graphics, and extra little bonuses not seen in the SNES version.
Now, with the release of a new Nintendo console, the widely acclaimed Game Boy Advance, it was almost necessary for the big N to release a Mario Kart game on the console.
And so, release a game they did! Mario Kart: Super Circuit, in my view, is the best Mario Kart game to date. More comparable to the ‘64 version than the original, this down-sized racer offers all that its predecessors did. The Nintendo characters we have grown to love are in there, along with new tracks, your favourite power-ups, and a few surprises too!
For those of you not familiar with the game, the basic concept is the same as any racing game - win! However, far from being a realistic simulator, Mario Kart offers players the chance to jump into a go-kart in the cartoon-like style of most Mario games. The object is to play through a trophy, and attain the highest mark you can at the end.
When you first turn on the game, the music instantly lets you know that this is a classic Nintendo product. When the menu screen appears, you can see all eight racers lined up, ready to race! For the moment, I’ll go through the Single player game.
After choosing 1 player, you are faced with a menu containing Mario Grand Prix, Time trial and quick race. Time trial lets you play on any track you have unlocked, in a race to beat your own best time on a track. And, as an added bonus, upon playing the same track again, you can see the ‘ghost’ of your previous attempt! Quick race is similar to Mario Grand Prix, except that you only play on one track, not across four in a trophy. Mario Grand Prix however is the main part of the game. Open it up, and you have to choose an engine class. The same as the ’64 version, you are given 50cc, 100cc and 150cc. 50cc offers tight cornering, yet lower speeds, and 150cc is the opposite of this. The next menu lets you choose a character to race as. Mario, Luigi, Peach, DK, Bowser, Yoshi, Wario and Toad are all here, or you can choose a random character. The next screen lets you choose a cup. These range in difficulty, and only by coming first in all 4 can you unlock the special cup!
The start of the race is similar to all Mario Kart games. You are placed 8th on the starting grid, and by accelerating at just the right time, can get a boost to catch up on first place! The first thing you notice about the game are the superb graphics. Far from jagged edges, the graphics are smooth, almost as good as the N64 game on a smaller screen! The in-game music is the same type as the previous games, and fits perfectly into the racing atmosphere. The control is just as smooth, though if it’s your first time playing the genre, you may find cornering difficult at first! As you race round the track, you’ll notice the classic ‘?’ boxes. Drive over one of these to collect a power-up! All your favourites are there - Red and green shells, banana skins, the feared lightning strike, stars, mushrooms and Boo’s! Used at the right moment, any of these can mean the difference between first and last place! Another thing to pick up along the track are coins. Each racer starts off with a certain amount of coins, and each time you crash or are hit, you lose one or more of them. When you are down to zero, you spin upon every collision, so its a good idea to pick them up! Use the classic power-slide to take corners with ease, and jump over any obstacles, but be careful not to fall off the track - it takes ages for you be lifted back on, and every second is vital!
At the end of the trophy, you will be given 1st, 2nd or 3rd place, and a rank ranging from 3 stars to E. The better mark you get, the quicker you will be able to unlock any bonuses there are!
Now that the single player is done, I’ll talk quickly about the multiplayer aspect. My favourite part is the ability to swap your ghosts from time trial. Go on, swap ‘em over and see how you compare to your mates! As far as racing is concerned, you can race on all the tracks you have unlocked, but also play in the great battle mode! Each kart has 3 balloons, and you must pop all your opponents balloons before they pop yours - great for relieving anger!
And that just about wraps the game up - apart from the bonuses - but you’ll have to find out what they are yourself!
The bottom line is, Mario Kart Super Circuit carries on the trend of the Mario Kart genre. A great game with the classic great game-play, amazing graphics, and the atmosphere that helped make the previous games a success! A full-marks AAA title!
(oh and as a side note, the screen shots on SR do not do the game any justice - get some new ones Tony!)
slik wrote:
> plus the factor that the GBA is more powerfull than the SNES and thus can
> produce graphics/sound/gameplay much better than the underpowered playstation
> could ever dream of!
slik ~_~
Also the playstation never made the most of itself!
> plus the factor that the GBA is more powerfull than the SNES and thus can
> produce graphics/sound/gameplay much better than the underpowered playstation
> could ever dream of!
slik ~_~
Also the playstation never made the most of itself!
plus the factor that the GBA is more powerfull than the SNES and thus can produce graphics/sound/gameplay much better than the underpowered playstation could ever dream of!
slik ~_~
slik ~_~
Gaming Boy wrote:
> One thing that's been bugging me is:
If the GBA has the power of the SNES,
> how can it challenge the Playstation?
Because the SNES wasn't that far behind the playstation, and the playstation doesn't usually make full use of itself.
> One thing that's been bugging me is:
If the GBA has the power of the SNES,
> how can it challenge the Playstation?
Because the SNES wasn't that far behind the playstation, and the playstation doesn't usually make full use of itself.
One thing that's been bugging me is:
If the GBA has the power of the SNES, how can it challenge the Playstation?
If the GBA has the power of the SNES, how can it challenge the Playstation?
joe_poly wrote:
> good post.
i also have mario kart, do you know how to gewt the SNES tracks?
I think you just need 100 stars, but I'm not sure...
> good post.
i also have mario kart, do you know how to gewt the SNES tracks?
I think you just need 100 stars, but I'm not sure...
hmmm de ja vous.
slik ~_~
slik ~_~
good post.
i also have mario kart, do you know how to gewt the SNES tracks?
i also have mario kart, do you know how to gewt the SNES tracks?
Can Nintendo really make a SNES quality games console that fits in your hand?
Can its games really challenge those of the Playstation?
Can they offer it in 4 different colours with a multitude of cool accessories?
Of course they can, they're Nintendo, and their latest little marvel is the Game boy Advance.
This little beauty, hyped up for months before its release, was destined to outsell its predecessors in its first two weeks on the shelves, provide amazing 3D games, with full colour, and be able to fit in our pockets.
And it certainly lives up to this destiny.
The Game Boy Advance, now available, is Nintendo's latest remake of the ever-popular game boy. As soon as it was released, units sold by the millions, and soon it became one of the best and fastest selling consoles ever.
But, is it worth your money? Are the 32-bit graphics as good as they are supposed to be? Does the wide colour screen give it that extra little edge? Are the games comparable to the SNES? That's what I aim to reveal to you in this opinion.
Firstly, THE UNIT ITSELF
Measuring no more than 15CM long and 8CM high, the game boy advance is not much bigger than the Game boys that came before it. Although, it is held horizontally, rather than vertically, unlike the Game Boy colour, pocket and mono.
So, its held the other way round, and is a little bigger? What else makes it better?
Well, the wide screen LCD display is one thing. With a maximum of 500 colours displayed at once, on a screen 50% bigger than that of the GBC (game boy colour), it packs a lot of visual prowess. Although it's still incomparable to a TV, it's certainly a hell of a good specification for a handheld.
What else? Well, with the unit held a different way, the buttons had to be replaced. It has all the classic GB buttons - D-PAD on the left and A+B buttons on the right of the screen, and a start and select button. But it also borrows the idea of 'shoulder buttons' from the N64. These are two extra buttons located on top of the consoles, allowing more in-game options.
Oh, and lets not forget the power button!
The Game boy advance is available in 4 colours, compared to the 6 of the GBC. However, it is a good selection, and they all look good. The unit is available in White, Purple, or see-through blue, as well as Red, which is obviously pink!
Onto the GRAPHICS
Well, 32-bit technology and a wide screen erm screen? With this backing them up, we should be able to expect great graphics on Nintendo's little gem.
And heed no fear, you won't be disappointed! (you can breathe again now - phew!)
Well, you wont be disappointed unless you thought it would have the same graphics of the Playstation, which is also 32-bit. It may have the same number of bits, but it does not have the graphic processors of the PSX, so keep the comparisons to the SNES.
Yes, the GBA primarily a 2D games medium, but it also has the capability for 'basic' 3D. Games like Kuri-Kuri-Kurin use the full power of the GBA in a 2D game, and it looks amazing. Mario Kart: super Circuit, used the 3D capacity, and also manages to look good.
So yes, the GBA is far superior to the Game Boy colour, and although it not comparable to the PSX, you're not going to get better in a handheld! Sorry.
Next - SOUND
The Game boy provided beeps. The Game boy colour thrilled us with annoying background music and some other limited effects. It was mono sound.
The GBA is also mono sound, with a small speaker on the console, yet it provides with a little bit more variety in the background music, some voices, and some new sound effects. But in all, you're still going to want to turn off the sound after a few minutes playing.
On the subject of sound, there is a 'sound game' being released on the GBA, so hopefully, we'll see some new sounds appearing on that.
Very important - MULTIPLAYER!
The game boy colour did give us a degree of multiplayer, through the link cable, and the Game boy advance takes this element to a new level.
A link cable is the medium for multiplayer, and it allows up to four GBA's to be linked together through a series of wires and adaptors. Of course, this ability is a huge selling point, and Nintendo have 'milked' it well, you may have seen their adverts (which I think are quite good :) ).
Another advantage with this is that only one of the four players needs to own the game - the data is all shared over the link-up. However, the more game-packs used, the more options are 'unlocked' so its better if all players own the game - another selling point for games.
BACKWARD COMPATIBILITY
The PS2 did it. Why shouldn't the GBA?
Well, it did. All game boy colour games are compatible with the Game boy advance unit.
This means that rather than a few games available for launch; the GBA had a huge back-catalogue of cheap GBC games. Another handy feature of playing a GBC game on your shiny new console is the larger screen. When you first play, the small game is centred in the middle of the screen, but press the shoulder button and: Viola! The game is stretched to fit the screen. Loverly jubberly!
And another word on compatibility, the GBA is to be linked to the GameCube, Nintendo's much anticipated 'next-generation' console. How this will work, nobody knows, but it is almost certain that somebody owning both consoles will have an advantage over someone owning only a GameCube - We'll just have to wait and see!
LIGHTING
At last you think, a downside to the GBA. Unfortunately so - :(
Unfortunately, the Game boy advance is not backlit, and this causes all sorts of problems. Aside from the obvious fact you cannot pay it in the dark, it also means that in anything less than bright daylight, you need a light source behind you, or the console is rendered almost unplayable.
Luckily, Nintendo's skimping on the backlight was necessary to provide more battery life - which is another of the consoles selling points. With a backlit display, the 2AA batteries would last no time at all. And you wouldn't like that would you?
The answer? Buy an accessory! The basic worm lights use up the GBA's power through the link-port, so they are not a good idea. But there are lights available (many of them with magnifiers too) which have their own power source AND cause less glare or reflection. But if after paying out for your GBA, you cannot afford one (like me) just sit near a light!
BATTERY LIFE
Fortunately, it is longer than the GBC.
Taking 2AA batteries, just like the GBC, you're new console will last up to 20 hours! Pretty good eh? And what's more, 2 batteries are included for you're playing pleasure!
Although this is a long life, rechargeable batteries made just for the GBA can last a little bit extra, and overall, the price will be lower.
Or buy a specially designed battery pack, which takes a while to charge, and doesn't last as long.
For me, I stick to my good old Duracell's!
Oh, and Nintendo also make a mains adaptor, for when you're playing at home. Handy? What about an in-car adaptor? (available soon!)
So what about the PRICE
At the moment, a GBA will set you back around £75 - £90 depending on where you buy it, and games range from £20 - £35.
A little expensive? I thought that too, but it IS a good console, and prices WILL drop soon, so all in all, its not so bad.
There are many accessories to consider, from lights to adaptors, link cables to cases, so don't forget to add them on when you price up your dream :D.
one of the most important things:- GAMES
So what games can we expect from our latest purchase?
Well, the two I own hold no faults.
F-Zero: A remake of the N64 classic, this offers high speed racing, top graphics, and many options, also a good multiplayer
Mario Kart Advance: A great remake of the SNES/N64 classics, it has all the laughs and game play of its previous versions. Also provides excellent multiplayer gaming
(read my opinion on it for more!)
These are just two of a large catalogue of games, not to mention the GBC selection. All the games I have played have offered great graphics, and although many are remakes of older games for the smaller screen, the are original in their own right.
CONCLUSION
Nintendo have done it again. Always dominating the handheld market, and doing a good job too. Set to be as big as the first game boy, a GBA is definitely worth getting.
And bearing in mind games are only of the first generation, the console can only amaze us more in the future.
The graphics are extremely impressive, and thought the sound has not 'advanced' that much, you wont find better on a handheld console.
What else can be said that hasn't already?
Oh yeah, go buy one ;)
DOWNSIDE:
The problem with lighting
Sound (but not badly)
UPSIDES:
Backwards compatible
Great graphics
Amazing games
Portable multiplayer gaming!
Many an accessory
Loooooooong battery life
and more!
GO FIGURE!
Can its games really challenge those of the Playstation?
Can they offer it in 4 different colours with a multitude of cool accessories?
Of course they can, they're Nintendo, and their latest little marvel is the Game boy Advance.
This little beauty, hyped up for months before its release, was destined to outsell its predecessors in its first two weeks on the shelves, provide amazing 3D games, with full colour, and be able to fit in our pockets.
And it certainly lives up to this destiny.
The Game Boy Advance, now available, is Nintendo's latest remake of the ever-popular game boy. As soon as it was released, units sold by the millions, and soon it became one of the best and fastest selling consoles ever.
But, is it worth your money? Are the 32-bit graphics as good as they are supposed to be? Does the wide colour screen give it that extra little edge? Are the games comparable to the SNES? That's what I aim to reveal to you in this opinion.
Firstly, THE UNIT ITSELF
Measuring no more than 15CM long and 8CM high, the game boy advance is not much bigger than the Game boys that came before it. Although, it is held horizontally, rather than vertically, unlike the Game Boy colour, pocket and mono.
So, its held the other way round, and is a little bigger? What else makes it better?
Well, the wide screen LCD display is one thing. With a maximum of 500 colours displayed at once, on a screen 50% bigger than that of the GBC (game boy colour), it packs a lot of visual prowess. Although it's still incomparable to a TV, it's certainly a hell of a good specification for a handheld.
What else? Well, with the unit held a different way, the buttons had to be replaced. It has all the classic GB buttons - D-PAD on the left and A+B buttons on the right of the screen, and a start and select button. But it also borrows the idea of 'shoulder buttons' from the N64. These are two extra buttons located on top of the consoles, allowing more in-game options.
Oh, and lets not forget the power button!
The Game boy advance is available in 4 colours, compared to the 6 of the GBC. However, it is a good selection, and they all look good. The unit is available in White, Purple, or see-through blue, as well as Red, which is obviously pink!
Onto the GRAPHICS
Well, 32-bit technology and a wide screen erm screen? With this backing them up, we should be able to expect great graphics on Nintendo's little gem.
And heed no fear, you won't be disappointed! (you can breathe again now - phew!)
Well, you wont be disappointed unless you thought it would have the same graphics of the Playstation, which is also 32-bit. It may have the same number of bits, but it does not have the graphic processors of the PSX, so keep the comparisons to the SNES.
Yes, the GBA primarily a 2D games medium, but it also has the capability for 'basic' 3D. Games like Kuri-Kuri-Kurin use the full power of the GBA in a 2D game, and it looks amazing. Mario Kart: super Circuit, used the 3D capacity, and also manages to look good.
So yes, the GBA is far superior to the Game Boy colour, and although it not comparable to the PSX, you're not going to get better in a handheld! Sorry.
Next - SOUND
The Game boy provided beeps. The Game boy colour thrilled us with annoying background music and some other limited effects. It was mono sound.
The GBA is also mono sound, with a small speaker on the console, yet it provides with a little bit more variety in the background music, some voices, and some new sound effects. But in all, you're still going to want to turn off the sound after a few minutes playing.
On the subject of sound, there is a 'sound game' being released on the GBA, so hopefully, we'll see some new sounds appearing on that.
Very important - MULTIPLAYER!
The game boy colour did give us a degree of multiplayer, through the link cable, and the Game boy advance takes this element to a new level.
A link cable is the medium for multiplayer, and it allows up to four GBA's to be linked together through a series of wires and adaptors. Of course, this ability is a huge selling point, and Nintendo have 'milked' it well, you may have seen their adverts (which I think are quite good :) ).
Another advantage with this is that only one of the four players needs to own the game - the data is all shared over the link-up. However, the more game-packs used, the more options are 'unlocked' so its better if all players own the game - another selling point for games.
BACKWARD COMPATIBILITY
The PS2 did it. Why shouldn't the GBA?
Well, it did. All game boy colour games are compatible with the Game boy advance unit.
This means that rather than a few games available for launch; the GBA had a huge back-catalogue of cheap GBC games. Another handy feature of playing a GBC game on your shiny new console is the larger screen. When you first play, the small game is centred in the middle of the screen, but press the shoulder button and: Viola! The game is stretched to fit the screen. Loverly jubberly!
And another word on compatibility, the GBA is to be linked to the GameCube, Nintendo's much anticipated 'next-generation' console. How this will work, nobody knows, but it is almost certain that somebody owning both consoles will have an advantage over someone owning only a GameCube - We'll just have to wait and see!
LIGHTING
At last you think, a downside to the GBA. Unfortunately so - :(
Unfortunately, the Game boy advance is not backlit, and this causes all sorts of problems. Aside from the obvious fact you cannot pay it in the dark, it also means that in anything less than bright daylight, you need a light source behind you, or the console is rendered almost unplayable.
Luckily, Nintendo's skimping on the backlight was necessary to provide more battery life - which is another of the consoles selling points. With a backlit display, the 2AA batteries would last no time at all. And you wouldn't like that would you?
The answer? Buy an accessory! The basic worm lights use up the GBA's power through the link-port, so they are not a good idea. But there are lights available (many of them with magnifiers too) which have their own power source AND cause less glare or reflection. But if after paying out for your GBA, you cannot afford one (like me) just sit near a light!
BATTERY LIFE
Fortunately, it is longer than the GBC.
Taking 2AA batteries, just like the GBC, you're new console will last up to 20 hours! Pretty good eh? And what's more, 2 batteries are included for you're playing pleasure!
Although this is a long life, rechargeable batteries made just for the GBA can last a little bit extra, and overall, the price will be lower.
Or buy a specially designed battery pack, which takes a while to charge, and doesn't last as long.
For me, I stick to my good old Duracell's!
Oh, and Nintendo also make a mains adaptor, for when you're playing at home. Handy? What about an in-car adaptor? (available soon!)
So what about the PRICE
At the moment, a GBA will set you back around £75 - £90 depending on where you buy it, and games range from £20 - £35.
A little expensive? I thought that too, but it IS a good console, and prices WILL drop soon, so all in all, its not so bad.
There are many accessories to consider, from lights to adaptors, link cables to cases, so don't forget to add them on when you price up your dream :D.
one of the most important things:- GAMES
So what games can we expect from our latest purchase?
Well, the two I own hold no faults.
F-Zero: A remake of the N64 classic, this offers high speed racing, top graphics, and many options, also a good multiplayer
Mario Kart Advance: A great remake of the SNES/N64 classics, it has all the laughs and game play of its previous versions. Also provides excellent multiplayer gaming
(read my opinion on it for more!)
These are just two of a large catalogue of games, not to mention the GBC selection. All the games I have played have offered great graphics, and although many are remakes of older games for the smaller screen, the are original in their own right.
CONCLUSION
Nintendo have done it again. Always dominating the handheld market, and doing a good job too. Set to be as big as the first game boy, a GBA is definitely worth getting.
And bearing in mind games are only of the first generation, the console can only amaze us more in the future.
The graphics are extremely impressive, and thought the sound has not 'advanced' that much, you wont find better on a handheld console.
What else can be said that hasn't already?
Oh yeah, go buy one ;)
DOWNSIDE:
The problem with lighting
Sound (but not badly)
UPSIDES:
Backwards compatible
Great graphics
Amazing games
Portable multiplayer gaming!
Many an accessory
Loooooooong battery life
and more!
GO FIGURE!