Stuntman, a daring venture by Atari’s development team Velez & Dubail, catapults the Game Boy Advance into the realm of high-octane, cinematic driving challenges. This unique title not only showcases the prowess of the developers but also pushes the hardware limits of the GBA, offering gamers an exhilarating and distinctive experience.
Evolution of Expertise
Velez & Dubail, recognized for their proficiency in Game Boy racing design, seamlessly transitioned their skills to the Game Boy Advance platform. Following the success of their previous creation, V-Rally 3, the team embarked on a new challenge – bringing the intense world of stunt driving to handheld gaming.
Movie Magic Unleashed
Stuntman on the Game Boy Advance mirrors its PlayStation 2 counterpart, immersing players into the thrilling role of a stuntman. The gameplay revolves around executing a series of driving challenges set by a film director. The tasks range from high-speed driving to performing specific maneuvers within tight timeframes, delivering an adrenaline-pumping experience.
The Stuntman Challenge
In the spirit of stunt driving, players are presented with a series of timed challenges, each requiring precision, speed, and mastery of specific tasks. From crashing into designated objects to executing handbrake turns and launching off jumps, the challenges push players to the limit. The objective is not just to complete the stunts but to do so flawlessly, maximizing earnings and minimizing mistakes.
Visual Delights and Technical Compromises
Stuntman on the GBA boasts a remarkable 3D engine, seamlessly blending texture-mapped polygons and sprite-based objects. Despite occasional glitches, the visual presentation surpasses the team’s prior achievement in V-Rally 3. However, it is essential to acknowledge the compromises made to accommodate the hardware limitations of the GBA, including objects occasionally showing through foreground polygons.
Capturing the Movie-Making Ambiance
While the movie-making theme is faithfully recreated, the handheld rendition lacks some of the cinematic elements present in its PS2 counterpart. Due to technical constraints, the GBA version couldn’t incorporate actual filming and full-motion video, impacting the immersive experience. However, the essence of being part of a film production is evident through the film’s title cards bookending each level.
Beyond Movie-Making: Arena Contests
Stuntman offers more than just movie-making challenges. The game introduces original Arena contests that diversify the gaming experience. Precision Tests demand strategic driving through gates, slaloming around posts, launching off jumps, and parking within specific zones.
Jump Tests require players to collect airborne letters within a set time, adding an extra layer of excitement. These challenges can also be enjoyed in two-player mode, where both players compete to collect the most letters before time runs out.
Verdict
Velez & Dubail have successfully delivered another standout title for the GBA with Stuntman. By focusing on driving technique rather than traditional racing, they present a refreshing alternative in the handheld gaming landscape. Despite minor limitations, the game offers a unique and enjoyable experience for players seeking something beyond conventional racing games.
Conclusion
Stuntman on the Game Boy Advance delivers a distinctive and enjoyable experience, combining challenging stunt scenarios, cinematic vibes, and additional Arena contests. Whether you’re on the move with your handheld device or enjoying the game at home, get ready for an adrenaline-pumping adventure.
Embark on a thrilling stunt journey with Stuntman – where every challenge is a scene, and you’re the star!
Play Anywhere, Anytime
Experience the adrenaline of Stuntman on the go! Play on your computer, mobile phone, or tablet, and master the art of stunt driving wherever you are.