Army Men Advance for the Game Boy Advance brings a nostalgic trip down memory lane for fans of the classic Army Men series. Developed by DC Studios, this game allows players to relive the iconic battles between the Green Nation and the Tan Army, with a twist - alien forces have joined the fray to support the infamously cunning Plastro.
The storyline, while not groundbreaking, adds an interesting element to the familiar gameplay. Players take control of Sarge and Vikki G., two determined soldiers who must navigate through a series of levels filled with unknown enemies. Their ultimate objective: to save their troops and confront Plastro in an epic final showdown.
Visually, Army Men Advance pays homage to the charm of retro gaming. The pixel art graphics capture the essence of the Game Boy Advance era, showcasing a colorful and vibrant world despite the hardware limitations. The isometric perspective adds depth to the environments, creating an immersive and nostalgic experience for players.
Gameplay, however, falls short of expectations. The controls feel clunky and imprecise, making precise movements and aiming a frustrating task. Maneuvering through the levels becomes a chore, hindering the enjoyment of what could have been a thrilling experience. Additionally, the level design lacks creativity, resulting in repetitive and uninspired gameplay.
Despite its flaws, Army Men Advance does offer a variety of weapons and power-ups that add some depth to the gameplay. Players can wield a range of firearms, explosives, and even use vehicles to enhance their combat capabilities. These elements provide moments of excitement and strategizing, but they alone cannot fully compensate for the game's shortcomings.
In terms of sound design, Army Men Advance delivers with its upbeat and catchy soundtrack. The tunes amp up the intensity of battles, stirring a sense of urgency and nostalgia in players. However, the sound effects feel lackluster and unremarkable, leaving a bit to be desired in the auditory department.
Overall, Army Men Advance for the Game Boy Advance offers a mixed bag of retro gaming joy and frustration. While the nostalgic graphics and engaging storyline successfully evoke fond memories of classic gaming, the clunky controls and repetitive gameplay detract from the overall experience. Die-hard fans of the Army Men series may find some enjoyment here, but others may want to consider exploring different options in the retro gaming realm. With a rating of 3.5/10, this game falls short of its potential and leaves room for improvement.
