Forget what you've typically come to expect from conventional platform titles. Muto is neither cute or out to save damsels in distress. In fact, he's quite unlike any character you've ever encountered, and believe it or not - he's bound to grow on you. Dr. Muto redefines the image of the proverbial "mad scientist" as players take on the role of the crazed genius whose latest experiment is the result of his entire world literally blown up to smithereens, except his personal lab. As you progress, clues point to Muto's arch-nemesis, Professor Burnital as the source behind the destruction. It's up to you to help Muto rebuild his planet, defeat Burnital and return things back to their natural state (well, at least according to his standards).

Essentially, as Muto, players must collect resources from other worlds, while avoiding ferocious creatures and other challenges along the way. To succeed, Muto must rely on an assortment of weapons and gadgets. Though actually, the main crux of the game lies with his ability to morph (more on this later). Muto's primary weapon - the Splizz gun, consists of two settings (eradicate, and capture). This weapon is integral to completing numerous objectives throughout each level, as you use it to eliminate enemies, collect items or creatures (i.e. Gomers - blobby like creatures which activate switches to access new areas). However, certain areas throughout each level can not be reached in Muto's human form. Here's where the morphing feature comes into play. Defeating certain enemies allows Muto to collect strands of DNA. (Note: There's a small DNA legend placed at the bottom right-hand of the screen, displaying each of the various forms Muto can transform into). Once you've collected the required items, the corresponding forms currently accessible to you will light up.

There are several forms which Muto can take on, including a flying squirrel, a fish, and a hulking gorilla. It's quite obvious to discern that Dr. Muto is a game abundant in over-the-top humor and goofiness, especially when it comes to the hybrid characteristics which Muto takes on - glasses, hair and all. It's very comical and without a doubt, a nice touch. Speaking of which, my first experience with the morphing feature occurred during the junkyard level. Taking a closer examination of the level (alright, to be honest, I actually did have "some" assistance from the producer), I discovered a few pipes and crevices in which Muto's mouse form would allow me to easily it into to. Since I had already collected the required number of DNA, it was a cinch to access the area and collect the part that I needed to access the next portion of the level. Progression throughout the game is relatively straightforward, especially in the early levels.

To provide a point of reference, the general game design can be likened to Oddworld, Wild 9 and MDK2 meshed into one. The levels are vast in size, unique and imaginative. Dr. Muto features over 30 levels in total, which according to Midway, should take the average gamer no more than 20 hours to complete. While I primarily spent much of my time getting familiar with the junkyard and lab (the hub to reaching other worlds), Midway notes that other levels take place within a waterfall polluted by Burnital, and an air-based planet aptly named Flotos that's been stripped of its resources (it's quite unlike Star Wars' Cloud City), leaving on the sky intact. Intriguing.

Visually, the Muto is replete with being goofy, namely the various mutations highlighted earlier. Generally, most platform games present a wholly flat roster of enemies (read: lacking personality and imagination), but you won't find that here. Biker chicks, roaches, and robotic canines, to highlight a few examples, indicate the comical medium that radiates throughout the entire package. The animation overall is very solid as the action moves along at 30fps second. Most importantly, the controls are easy to grasp, while the fun factor caters to a broad audience allowing anyone to pick up the game and be entertained.

Without a doubt, Dr. Muto is shaping up to be a very solid, entertaining title. Gamers familiar with Ed Logg of Asteroids and Galaga fame should be rest assured that the game is in good hands. In its aim to expand beyond its arcade roots (and Haven pending release), Midway certainly has a good thing going here. I've got a good vibe from the time spent with Muto (for the record, I spent approximately a good hour non-stop, so suffice it to say, I am very eager to get my hands on the final version). In the event that you aren't in possession of a Xbox unit, Dr. Muto is also currently in development for the PS2 and Gamecube platforms. My prognosis recommends that you pick up a copy when the Doctor hits retail this November!

· · · Bahn