Review: Enjoyment

Like it or hate it, Bubsy's got a lot of fun action/platforming mixed with a handful of exploration ~ Shawn Sackenheim, All Game Guide

Review: Overall

In the years since Bubsy's debut, it seems like people either like the game or loathe it, with a passion. Although the control will throw any unsuspecting gamer for a loop, it is an enjoyably colorful and diverse game.

And since the gameplay is the biggest deciding factor to this game, let's start there. As far as buttons go, Bubsy is pretty light. You've got a jump and a glide button. Apparently, in this twisted world where cats run around in T-shirts, they can also glide through the air.

Using the D-pad, however, is a harrowing experience at first. You'll find that Bubsy likes to slide when you stop (for comedic value) and takes a second or two to get to full speed upon moving. This is comically acceptable but as gameplay goes, it just makes everything harder. Still, it takes only a few levels to get the control wired in and the game is rather generous with extra lives, though they're usually in the hidden areas.

As for any action/platform game, you've got pick ups and you've got enemies. In Bubsy's case, the pick ups are the numerous colorful balls of twine that the evil aliens, The Woolies, have stolen. The enemies, of course, are the aliens in question. Just as comical as Bubsy himself, the woolies are short, poofy haired little dudes that throw everything from twine to cheese wheels as well as physically blowing Bubsy away. A bit odd, but an effective weapon nonetheless. End bosses are also on hand, taking the shape of flying saucers who's patterns diversify as the levels increase.

Adding character to the game's levels are cartoony themes. From the vast rolling hills of the country-side to the scorched sun burnt desert, each level has a respective title and a quotable quip that Bubsy utters upon entering.

The control, while loose, is acceptable. The levels are huge and filled with impressive effects and colors, and the overall feel is fun and bouncy with a moderate challenge. If that sounds like fun to you, then, by all means, check Bubsy out. It's definitely better than most other third party mascot games. ~ Shawn Sackenheim, All Game Guide

Review: Graphics

A bit grainy but colorful and diverse. Decent animation and cartoony antics are packed in as well ~ Shawn Sackenheim, All Game Guide

Review: Sound

The music is decent, though it tends to get a bit repetitive. Effects are also repetitive, but acceptable ~ Shawn Sackenheim, All Game Guide

Review: Replay Value

The challenge and huge levels will have you returning for at least a few weeks ~ Shawn Sackenheim, All Game Guide

Review: Documentation

A decent manual describing storyline, controls, and options ~ Shawn Sackenheim, All Game Guide