Split open

Super Monkey Ball Lite would be a more appropriate title. How's that? I don't want to make excuses on account of the fact you're playing on a handheld platform, but the graphics are exceptionally decent. Overall, things are pretty flat, and there's not a whole lot of depth to admire. Sorry, I just don't really care for pixelated sprites (note to THQ: pure 2D sprites are the way to go guys). So you're basically left with the gameplay values to make up for it, but those are hindered by the control faults...an area of concern especially among the veterans. They're not bad, but it defintely requires some adjustment. Playing Gamecube may have been a breeze, but try showing off that same skill on the GBA D-pad. It's times like this when I wish the system also featured an analog stick. Some consider the GBA insufficient to adequately recreate the same experience on the Gamecube and well - that's based upon individual preference, taste and expectations. I am just disappointed there's no tutorial to train me how to defeat Nick in the game.

There's a lot of challenging levels (contains 60 in all, divided into 3 difficulty modes). You've really got to know your stuff before you can tackle the more advanced levels, which will eventually allow you unlock the various mini-games (includes Monkey Bowling, Monkey Fight and Monkey Golf); expanding the replay value substantially. Personally, I preferred the mini-games (mainly Monkey Fight and the Monkey Duel) over the standard arcade modes. All of the mini-games are accessible in single or multi-player mode.

Ooga-booga

I haven't had the opportunity to experience the multi-player mode (which by far expands the excitement a few notches more); however single-player mode will offer just as much challenge and is bound to keep you up for hours. It's truly that addictive. The sound and music (well, the bit of it that exists) basically has the same integrity and quality. I am never paying that much attention to it to be honest, except when Baby falls off the platform for the 50th time. Noooooooooooooooooooooooo !!!!

More fun than a barrel of...?

It's odd that THQ didn't take advantage of the GBA's network features in conjunction with the Gamecube. I was expecting something along of the lines of unlocking additional stages, or perhaps integration with Super Monkey Ball 2. The way I see it, this feature should be utilized more often so that's not mistaken for an occasssional gimmick thrown in now and then. It shows a lot of potential and I hope to see future handheld releases. Avid fans who can't get enough of the franchise should definitely look into picking up a copy. Purists are likely to overlook the game mainly because of the lack of analog; it's a case of love or hate. There's no other way I can break it down. If you take the plunge, be prepared not to playing your other games anytime soon.

· · · Bahn