As a side-scrolling platformer, the game works. Though you can take anyone
one of the four turtles through the five levels of action, there is no difference between
them. The only way to even tell the difference by looking at them is by their weapons.
Through the levels, our heroes will be tormented by robotic foot soldiers, mousers, and
really big...uh...well...balls. The bosses are ripped right from the comic and TV show and
are instantly recognizable. A few hidden bonus stages are included and provide a nice
diversion from the action.
Though it was an early release, this is still one of the best looking Game Boy games of all time. The still cinemas look absolutely fantastic and the green guys themselves have never looked better in portable form. The foot soldiers are highly detailed, not to mention huge for a Game Boy sprite. Some flicker ruins the experience at times, but this is a rare occurrence.
Although the sound effects may be sparse, the music is actually decent. Beyond the theme song we all know and love, most of the music could easily be associated with the TMNT even if you never see the screen. Definitely a rare occurrence on the Game Boy. Kudos goes out to "Ultra/Konami" games.
If there is one thing that completely ruins the game, even before you play the game, it's the level select. Nope, no coded needed. Just pop in the cart right out of the box and there it is. Granted, you won't get the full ending if you don't play through all of the stages, you just have to wonder why the feature was included at all since the game is unbearably easy. The only stage that even seems to put up a fight is the final showdown in the Technodrome, but it's still pretty easy. Oh, and the Konami code can be put in once per game to restore your life. Just pause the game and go for it.
As an overall package, it's hard to fault this game. Actually, for a short trip, it's perfect. You'll breeze through it in no time, but the action is just enough to keep anyone occupied, regardless of their age. Those looking to get their moneys worth will probably be highly disappointed. TMNT fans should have a field day and this is by far the best of the portable turtle games.
