Bust-A-Move
Reviewed by Shawn Bailey
Puzzle fans unite! This is the game that started it all... Bust-A-Move
(Puzzle Bobble in Japan) starring those irresistibly cute dinos Bub
and Bob. At first glance, this seems way too easy, until you discover
the deep gameplay that lies within. Tackling the computer through
20 stages with other interesting characters is one direction you
may go, or you may try playing by yourself through the 100 normal
stages, and when friends come over, don't forget the intense two
player mode. Bust-A-Move is one of those games you sit down to
play for 10 minutes, and soon after 2 hours have passed by....
Graphics 6 out of 10
Graphics is not one of the major strong points in this game (but
when are they a factor in a puzzle game). The aforementioned cute
characters are a big plus, along withe the detailed backgrounds.
Music and Sound 9 out of 10
Wonderful or irritating seems to be the two schools of thought on
the music in the game. It is extremely catchy and after a few
minutes I began humming the theme songs. Sound FX are also
appropriate and well-done.
Game Challenge 8 out of 10
Practice, practice, practice... that's what it takes to become a
pro in Bust-A-Move. The password systems are a big help in the
main mode and allow you to continue whatever level you are on.
The final boss is also a challenge that will take some time to beat.
The vs. mode is also quite challenging until you are able to think
quicker and shoot the bubbles faster than the opposition.
Game Play-Fun 10 out of 10
This is one of those classic titles that will never bore me. Even
if you beat all 100 levels, the vs. mode, and your friends in the
two player mode, there is still an endless challenge record mode
that will keep you playing for months. The game play is solid and
well-balanced by the use of colors and the music.
Frustration
Frustration levels peak in Bust-A-Move in the vs. mode. Each
character must be beat two out of three times. Whenever there
is a third round and you lose, it can be very frustrating... but
remember there is always the continue button.
Replayability 9 out of 10
As stated before, this is a game you will not tire of. If you decide
to search for one be aware that this is so hard to find because
everyone that buys it holds on to it. This has driven the game
price way up, if you can even locate one. But even at a high price,
this is a title you will cherish and replay many times
Game Value 8 out of 10
My score would be a perfect 10 if it wasn't for the high price of
a copy of the game. Expect to pay upwards of $45 for a used copy.
But if you take the time to get good at it, it will never let you
down. P.S. This also makes a great party game!
Overall 9 out of 10
Bust-A-Move is one of my all-time favorites because it is a title
with great replayability. Most of the games that come out today lack
inspiration and originality, and once you play them through, you may
never play them again. Bust-A-Move certainly does not fit into this
category and is well worth picking up. It is also a game that breaks
age barriers. Anybody with a Super NES should not be without this title!