Software meets Game Boy challenge
By Marc Saltzman
Much to Nintendo's delight, its latest Game Boy Advance "SP" ("special") machine has been rolling out faster than barrels in a Donkey Kong game.
According to Nintendo of America (www.nintendo.com), the $100 portable player sold more than 800,000 units in its first week.
This enhanced Game Boy features a built-in light, rechargeable batteries and a flip-screen ("clamshell") design.
Here's a look at two of the latest games for the Game Boy Advance SP — they'll also work on the regular Game Boy Advance player. Each title costs roughly $30.
"Splinter Cell," Ubi Soft; rated T for teen; 4 stars out of 5
Based on the popular console and PC game, this portable version of "Splinter Cell" pits Sam Fisher, a highly trained secret government operative, against a cell of ruthless terrorists.
While it lacks 3-D graphics and the impressive use of lighting and shadows found in its predecessors, the stealthy action game captures the thrill of modern espionage.
The 11-mission game begins as two CIA agents mysteriously disappear in the former Soviet republic of Georgia.
The National Security Agency sends Sam in to crawl, climb and sneak about the many levels to collect data and recover the missing agents.
Gamers can connect the Game Boy to a Nintendo GameCube machine (cord sold separately) to download five additional levels.
"Golden Sun: The Lost Age," Nintendo; rated E for everyone; www.nintendo.com; 4 1/2 stars
In this role-playing game sequel, the player first sets out to find a friend's missing brother.
But he stumbles upon an evil threat that can destroy the world.
The combat is straightforward, and the clever magic system is based on the four elements — earth, wind, fire and water — which are combined to create unique attacks against enemies. This adds a considerably deeper strategic component to the 40-hour adventure.
The game features bright, colorful graphics, a melodic soundtrack and the option of letting you battle against a friend using a Link-Up cable which is sold separately.
If you liked "Lord of the Rings," you'll probably love "Golden Sun: The Lost Age."
