highly addictive!! (Pokemon Blue and Red Versions (GB))

Member Name: trussellp

Product:	Pokemon Blue and Red Versions (GB)
Date:	11/03/02 (329 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: easyto master controls, graphics

Disadvantages: characters names are a bit tacky

The Game Boy has outlived many consoles and hand-held computer systems in its time, and one of the reasons for its long lifespan has to be down to its original and highly addictive games. Pokemon for the Game Boy is one such awe-inspiring game, and explains why the hand-held is still successful and around today.

Pokemon, originating from Japan, is an abbreviation of Pocket Monster, and has lead to a merchandise invasion of epic proportions. Currently in this country two Pokemon cartridges are available for the Game Boy, being either Blue or Red (although more are soon to be released). Both Red and Blue versions play almost identically apart from each one having a different Pokemon monster to collect and train.

As a young trainer, it is your job to collect one of each Pokemon on the Planet, and so become the Pokemon Master. In order to capture the little creatures you have to use Poke Balls which are available from the Poke Mart, which also stocks various medicines and potions to help you succeed. As you venture through the game you meet various people, who can give you important information in order to aid your exploration. You also discover different towns and terrain to visit and explore.

Once the game is commenced you soon come across wild Pokemon to either collect with a Poke Ball or to spar your captured Pokemon against. You also meet other trainers who may want to battle their Pokemon against yours. During a battle sequence, you take it in turns with your opponent to either inflict an attack or take defensive action. This continues until a Pokemon is either captured or faints, or if you decide to end the fight. In order to successfully win a battle, you must use your Pokemon's individual attacks wisely.

It is also important to pit Pokemon of the same strength and ability against one another, and to decide when to give medical assistance or to change to another monster. With proper training and attention the captured
Pokemon will evolve and gain new and more powerful fighting skills.

The captured Pokemon are conveniently stored in a Pokedex, which allows you to check the health and evolution of your collection. The game also allows two Game Boys each with the Pokemon cartridge to be linked together with the universal cable so that Pokemon can be fought and traded with friends.

The graphics are functional and clear, but appear old-fashioned compared to some recent Game Boy releases. The graphic style is similar to that of Zelda, another excellent role playing game for the system. Fortunately the game play more than makes up for the graphics although the battle sequences are fun to watch.

The sound effects are above average with an excellent jaunty melody and scary cries from the Pokemon.

Overall Pokemon is an excellent game, and will give many hours of enjoyable play. The game play is varied and exciting, and makes it one of the best role playing games on the market.

Summary: