Phalanx (GBA) (Phalanx (GBA))

Member Name: thole09

Product:	Phalanx (GBA)
Date:	24/05/09 (3 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Gameplay, Graphics

Disadvantages: Some audio

"Phalanx" is a video game released for the Gameboy Advance console in 2001 by Kemco. It is based on a Super Nintendo title released earlier of the same name. In the United States, the game received a rating of "E" by the ESRB panel which deemed it suitable for all ages.

The storyline of this title features the player acting as a pilot of a space craft in aims of defeating "Delia"; an evil alien empire. It is a standard action arcade game in that the player will navigate from left to right and collect power-ups which activate higher damaging weapons. The game is spread over nine levels which is divided into three sub missions; two standard flights and a third boss mission. This does offer a considerable amount of gameplay but can be completed on a rainy afternoon indoors. One aspect I particularly liked was that the power-up weapons can be conserved and used at appropriate points. Some missions may call for homing missiles whereas others can call for wide laser beams. It is this element of strategic thought which gives the game replay value.

The graphcis are presented from a side scrolling perspective focusing on the player's space craft. Both the character and enemy ships are small on the display but attention is drawn away from this with the stunning background designs. Each were well drawn with appropriate colours and a wide assortment of shading. Each of the ships is well animated and navigates at a fast speed. Through all of the action I did not notice any slow down. The soundtrack is not quite as good as the visuals but is acceptable nonetheless with higher pitched musical scores and sound effects following the player throughout.

Overall, Phalanx is a game I would recommend to prospective buyers. It is a game which is timeless in its gameplay and remains an enjoyable experience when played in shorter frequent bursts.

Summary: Thumbs up