Rapala Pro Fishing (GBA) (Rapala Pro Fishing (GBA))

Member Name: thole09

Product:	Rapala Pro Fishing (GBA)
Date:	27/05/09 (8 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Some gameplay, Graphics

Disadvantages: Short duration

"Rapala Pro Fishing" is a video game released for the Gameboy Advance console in 2005 by Zoo Digital Publishing. It is a sports game with fishing being represented. In the United States, the game received a rating of "E" by the ESRB panel which deemed it suitable for all ages.

Rapala Pro Fishing aims to offer the player with a virtually authentic fishing experience. The player is offered a variety of different lures, bait and fishing poles and may fish within several locations. Each of the locations provides a different abundance of fish and environmental aspects can be adjusted, such as fishing at morning or night to attract certain species. The game features two modes in "Quick Fish" and "Challenge". Quick Fish, as the name implies, allows the player to quickly adjust common settings and engage immediately within play for an unlimited amount of time. Challenge requires the player to catch a certain species of fish within a certain time limit. The controls are simple and require the player to cast using the "A" button and reel in by alternating between the "L" and "R" buttons. A tension metre rests at the side of the display and the player must aim to keep this at a lower level to prevent the fish from escaping. It is an easy game to complete overall and is unfortunately short in play. The challenge mode offers little "challenge" and can be completed within an hour.

The graphics are presented from a side perspective which focuses on the fisherman in his boat. Each of the environments are somewhat generic pond displays but are accented appropriately by the time of day. The afternoon will feature clear blue skies whereas the later evening will turn to an orange hue. The fish are also large and well detailed, and I was able to distinguish clearly between the variety of species. The soundtrack is also good with gentle musical scores and sound effects following the player throughout.

Overall, Rapala Pro Fishing is an average at best fishing game which I would be hesitant about recommending to prospective buyers. It offers little by the way of longevity and may only appeal to those interested in fishing.

Summary: Thumbs in the middle