Custom Robo

"Enter the Holosseum!"

If you thought you've played it all, you probably haven't played Custom Robo. This game was the most anticipated by me (as well as many others) ever since first word on it. Why? Most likely the fact that it involves Robots (fans of Armored Core series might get a kick out of this game) and customization! Guns, Pods, Models, Legs, and Bombs. With 200+ parts, who wouldn't like it? For a game that isn't well known to the US (this IS the first CR game in the US, while it's the 4th in Japan), it takes us by storm.

Story 10/10
The story in my honest opinion, was really great. It wasn't FF, but for a game that consisted of little toy robots, it sure surprised me! Aside from the storyline, there are a lot of jokes integrated into it. You'll be laughing from time to time as you learn more of the story, as well as the game. Spoiling is never fun, so to find out about the story, you'll just have to pick it up and play.

Graphics 10/10
At first glance, from the screen shots... you wouldn't think that the game looked great (well, to some people). Watching the Opening CG.. I must say, blew me away (no pun intended!). Even then, the graphics in the game (though not like the Opening CG) are fetch. They're crisp and vibrant, and you can easily tell what's what. The characters are well modeled and each character has their unique look. The areas and such are beautifully made, sometimes giving players an "Aaah" feeling. At least, I think so. Even the Robos are rendered nicely.

Sound 10/10
I've never heard any other CR music, since this is the first of the 4 I've played. I can tell you though, from listening, that the music "fits" certain stages. You'll go from the Hero's home where it's nice and mellow, to the Police Station where it's "technical" sounding. With a score like that, it's never really boring. Plus, the battle music is catchy!

Gameplay 10/10
The best part of the game! I tell you, the moment I picked up the controller to play it, I was glued to it like hot fudge on a sundae! It is THAT good. As bland as it may sound, the customization is awesome!. 200+ parts, totaling for many combinations. The customization allows players to play to their liking, whether it's Bum rushing with a really fast character, or playing Keep Away with a slow, yet highly powered Robo. Multi-player adds to the gameplay as well, if you have friends that play it. Who wouldn't like schooling their friends with a Robo that you use, that they claim, suxors!

Controls 10/10
The layout isn't bad. I mean, from a GC controller, what would you expect? You have your simple B button to shoot, your A button to Jump, and the rest picks up. Should be simple, unless you've never played with a GC controller before..

Replay Factor 10/10
Oh man, I can't even say. The re-playability isn't the best compared to some games, but it IS great. I don't like to spoil, but you just have to play the game to find out =D

Overall 10/10
What're you, kidding me? 10's in all of the other categories, and you're still wondering the overall grade? Eheh, just kidding. I give it a 10 because in my opinion, it's one of the most well-crafted games of 2004! Props to Nintendo!

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 05/19/04