Mission - Impossible (GB) (Mission - Impossible (GB))

Member Name: thole09

Product:	Mission - Impossible (GB)
Date:	16/04/09 (28 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Action Agent Kit

Disadvantages: Slower gameplay

"Mission Impossible" is a video game released for the Gameboy Color in 2000 by Infogrames. It is based on the American television series 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 gameplay handles very similar to the popular "Metal Gear Solid" video game franchise released later in game chronology. The player has access to numerous spy tools and other kit in order to complete his or her mission which usually involves traveling through desolate areas undetected. The player has access to numerous handheld weapons but using these will usually draw attention to the character by surrounding enemies, and tends to result in death as one hit by the enemy will kill the in game character sending him back to the stage start. Power-ups to the player are placed few and far between which forces conservation on behalf of the player, but this seems suitable for the general avoidance required by the player in this game. Difficulty is kept to a minimum if the player is able to avoid having an itchy trigger finger and is able to execute very explicit commands on where to move and when. Some levels are quite long and can extend up to 20 minutes of in game time so developing an early habit of restricting weapon use is ideal.

The graphics are presented from a top down perspective with minimal detailing. The character features obvious torso and other bodily features but lacks finer features and details. I'm not sure why but throughout playing I had the impression that the character was almost walking on a wall due to the larger three dimensional sprite being placed against a two dimensional background. Some larger features in the game such as desks and chairs draw attention away from this but it is nonetheless noticeable. The audio sports typical "Mission Impossible" snippets with the trademark theme and other noticeable franchise features being showcased throughout, and is of a generally good quality overall.

An interesting feature of this game and cartridge is its ability to make use of the Gameboy Color's infrared port. A feature known as the "Action Agent Kit" allows the player to use his or her console as an address book and to send and brief text messages to other infrared devices in the immediate area (approximately ten feet). The player is also able to use the Gameboy console as a television remote control using this feature, allowing whatever function he or she desires, such as changing channels or volume adjustment, to be done with the console itself.

Overall, the game itself is not particularly impressive and can be difficult in areas of closer knit reconnaissance. It could entertain some but the bulk of appeal comes from the Action Agent Kit which makes very innovative use of otherwise unused technology.

Summary: Thumbs in the middle