DreamCatcher Games enters the handheld foray, introducing its first platform title based upon DIC's acclaimed cartoon series Inspector Gadget. Although you may be unfamiliar with the animated franchise or the motion-picture bombshell, DreamCatcher and developer LSP have crammed an abundant degree of action and challenge to make the title worth playing.

In similar fashion to the cartoon, Inspector Gadget has set out on a quest to stop Dr. Claw, (Gadget's arch-nemesis) and his evil forces affiliated with the Maleveloent Agency of Destruction (or M.A.D. for short), who've installed machines within the proximity of all major monuments throughout the world. Dispatched by Chief Quimby, it's up to Gadget to put an end to Dr. Claw's evil scheme - before it's too late!

Anyone of course who's followed the series during its run will recall that Gadget is somewhat of a dimwit...or can best be described as having the dexterity and attention span of Jar Jar Binks. Fortunately, our daring hero is not alone, assisted by his niece, Penny and her pet dog, Brain. Inspector Gadget consists of 5 areas (China, Egypt, U.S.A, England, and France respectively), divided into 3 stages featuring a boss encounter at the end of each area.

Yowzers!

The gameplay for all intents and purposes is relatively simplistic and straightforward - eliminate or elude M.A.D. agents, collect bonuses and succesfully reach the end of the stage. Collecting "bonuses" will award players with additional lives (accured for every 10,000 points). By default, players will assume the role of the Inspector himself. As his name implies, he's able to make use of various gadgets, including a helicopter and spring boots which allow him to advance throughout the game.

Unlike some titles such as MDK in which levels are specifically tailored for the playable cast of characters, Inspector Gadget allows you to toggle the selection at any time. Admittedly, switching characters can feel somewhat sandatary, but to its credit, this feature is actually the game's strongest asset as it provides some variety. For example, taking control of Penny allows you to easily immobilize robotic enemies by making them self-destruct, or in turn...use them to destroy structures which contain bonus items. And then there's Brain, whose role allows you to reach platforms that are unreachable by either Gadget or Penny, or pass through enemy agents using his penquin costume.

Next time Gadget, next tiiiiiiiiiime!!!

It should be noted that while the overall challenge can be mildly difficult for experienced players, it's definitely designed for the younger audiences in mind. The level design is filled with vibrant colors, unlike most GBA titles which are plagued with dark hues requiring optimal lighting. Till this day, I still think Nintendo should've incorporated a backlight. Overall, the game design is an solid reflection of the franchise, complete with trademark naunces from Gadget's flotation device, to the campy sounds and modest cut scenes featured at the start of each level. The only quip which players made find disappointment with lies in the game's music, which is mildly repetitive.

Don't worry chief...I am always on duty

Overall, structured in such a way that the controls, gameplay and challenge factor are all basically played down for casual and younger players. This is not to say the game is boring...in fact, for anyone that's a fan of the cartoon series, the handheld adventure is quite a treat.

· · · Bahn