G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero

The Good
The game is not only respectful of the franchise, but is able to stand on its own as a great game well worth its price. The game features superior, 8-bit graphic, music and sound effects that really help draw you into the environment. Even if you know nothing about the popular franchise, this game is one of the best and most creative action- adventure titles for the 8-bit Nintendo. Yet, fans are in for plenty of extra treats as this game succinctly brings the G.I. Joe universe of the 1980's - early 1990's into full, 8-bit glory. At the beginning of each level, General Hawk lays out the mission (basically find and blow up a Cobra base) appoints a team leader and then lets you pick two additional members. The first stage typically involves a battle to the base, the second stage takes place inside the base (where you have to plant bombs) and the final stage features a familiar Cobra villain as a boss. Each playable character has their own, upgradable, strengths and weaknesses, with my personal favorite being Snake-Eyes with his sword and his magical fire balls. You can switch among you characters during a level and even take over certain Cobra vehicles to ride.

The Bad
The game is not for novices, given its high degree of difficulty once you get past the initial levels. Various elements in the game, i.e. passwords, the location of icons and Cobra vehicles, ensure that the game is never unfairly difficult, but be prepared to die often and use a high degree of strategy and exploration in each level.

The Bottom Line
This game offers superior, 8-bit graphics, music and sound effects. The action packed game is challenging, but never unfairly so and retains a high degree of fun and replay value, even if you beat the entire game. Fans of the franchise or any gamer ready for a challenge, should give this one a try.