"Where the heck was my sequel to NiGHTS?" I cried...

Yes, there was no announcements of my coveted sequel in sight, no followup to Streets of Rage, Shinobi...just some game called Chu Chu Rocket. I personally thought Sega lost their sanity. Besides, I already owned/played both versions of Sonic Adventure, Phantasy Star Online won't be out for awhile, and I am not personally ready to engage Samba De Amigo. This left me with our game of discussion.

Once again in my gaming experience has a game lifted the veil over my eyes to reveal what instantly became a treasured favorite. Chu2 (as it's been labeled by many gaming fans) is simply too addicting for words. Although I have only experienced the fun with the computer (and a time-based multiplayer mode with some friends)...I can obviously see why this will be one of the games which generally anyone looking for a title offering fresh and enjoyable elements would embrace. The concept is relatively simple: place arrows on a 2D playing field to direct the mice (known as "Chus" and are highly unintelligent mice mind you...) into rockets while keeping them from harm (i.e. black holes and the evil cats...who are also not very bright). Since the cats are the primary concern to be on the watch, it's important to redirect the cats as well because they're out to destroy any rockets they encounter (and eat the mice too!)

Beginning to see the challenge?

The demo allowed me to sample 5 of the 100 missions which will be available in the full version. They're basically games to challenge your brain, so if you're not of the highly thought-provoking species...stay clear. In each progressive level, you're issued a certain number of arrow game pieces which must be placed correctly to lure the Chus into the rockets. Don't expect high paced action here, it's a game of wits and patience, and you'll need this in abundance.

The true highlight of Chu Chu Rocket is the multiplayer/net functionality features. Even playing with the computer can be quite challenging as the AI is more than adequately challenging (I myself was personally "spanked" in a few sessions). Of course, it's when you're seated with three of your friends, all racing to direct the mice into your assigned rocket, while various events such as "Cat Mania" where a surge of cats appear onscreen and set out to eat any mice in site. The player with the most number of mice collected wins!

Sound fun? Believe me, it is....

Chu Chu Rocket is among Sega's marketing strategy, and if you've been keeping up with the recent reports, you're aware that you'll be able to look for new challenges online with your Dreamcast, a net connection and a copy of Chu Chu Rocket to get underway. In my initial experience, I believe it can be safely said that Sega definitely has a winner on their hands with this game, and I am personally looking forward to the online experience, along with new fresh ideas in the future!

· · · Bahn