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Review of Ganba no Bouken: The Puzzle Action on PlayStation

by Jay Aborro Jay Aborro photo Mar 2003
Cover image of Ganba no Bouken: The Puzzle Action on PlayStation
Gamefings Score: 6
Platform: PlayStation PlayStation logo
Released: 04 Mar 2003
Genre: Puzzle Action
Developer: Bandai
Publisher: Bandai

Introduction

Welcome, gamer enthusiasts and puzzle solvers, to the delightful world of 'Ganba no Bouken: The Puzzle Action.' Inspired by a vintage Japanese anime series, this title embarks on a lighthearted adventure filled with challenges that are more puzzling than figuring out who ate your last slice of pizza. Let's dive into the action and see if this game truly stands the test of time, or if it's just a nostalgic mishap in a world of colorfully animated rodents.

Gameplay

At its core, 'Ganba no Bouken: The Puzzle Action' is all about maneuvering Ganba, a sprightly little mouse, through a series of puzzles and levels that would make any cheese-loving rodent squeal with delight. The gameplay blends classic platforming mechanics with brain-teasing puzzles, taking players on a journey to rescue captured friends from the clutches of the dastardly Noroi Clan. Controls are more responsive than your mom's 3 AM phone calls when you're out with friends, allowing you to jump, run, and even push blocks around (because who knew mice were also part-time movers?). The puzzles themselves become increasingly creative as you advance through levels, proving just challenging enough to leave you scratching your head — or maybe that’s just the fleas from the last mouse you encountered. Some puzzles are focused on teamwork, encouraging players to strategize how to get the most out of Ganba's crew, while others ask you to think outside the box — or cheese carton, as the case may be. The levels range from charmingly animated forests to treacherous dungeons, all while keeping the vibe light-hearted. Ganba’s transformations and skill upgrades add some fun variety, and watching him don different outfits is a visual treat, akin to a rodent version of a fashion show. However, it’s worth noting that while the game is charming and quite amusing, it can sometimes feel like a maze designed by someone who just learned what a maze is.

Graphics

Visually speaking, 'Gamba no Bouken: The Puzzle Action' brings charming graphics that resemble a colorful watercolor painting come to life. The character designs are adorable — the kind of cute that makes you want to protect them while simultaneously asking them for fashion advice. The animations are fluid, and the backgrounds offer a whimsical charm that pulls you deeper into this rodent realm. It’s clear a lot of heart was put into these visuals, which makes up for any limitations in texture detail; after all, who cares about pixel count when you're a mouse in a world where cheese is the ultimate goal?

Conclusion

In conclusion, 'Ganba no Bouken: The Puzzle Action' is a delightful romp through a world filled with puzzles and playful mice. While it may not be the revolutionary gaming experience some may hope for, its charm and creativity carry it through. If you’re a fan of classic adventure games or have a strong affinity for adorable rodents, give it a whirl — even if it takes a few tries to get those puzzles just right. The game might not be a masterpiece, but it's certainly a slice of fun. Just remember: if you ever find yourself caught in the seams of a piece of cheese, always check for Noroi first!

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