Magi Nation

"In a word, astounding."

Switching my Game Boy on, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. I'd never heard anything about this mysterious new game, and that's part of what made me buy it...I wanted to form my own opinion of the game, without any initial bias. What I found, honestly, ASTOUNDED me. I couldn't believe my eyes when I came to know this game...somehow, Pokémon and the Dragon Warrior games diminished from my mind. In short, Magi Nation is an irresistibly great game.

Graphics: 10/10
Overall, I thought the graphics were quite creative. I much enjoyed how the characters weren't nearly as redundant as in other games, and I also appreciated the monster design during battle...some of them are just downright coooool. The environments, also, were very enjoyable. Compared to other games for the GBC, this game has by far the best, in my opinion.

Sound: 9/10
I found the music quite amusing. I paid close attention to all of the music, and I found a wide variety of melodies to keep me busy listening. Sound effects were above average, but not quite 10-worthy. Again, compared to other games, this one is superior in this respect.

Story: 10/10
Here's the thing that really got me hyped about this game. I thought the story line had the maturity of a Dragon Warrior game, but something made it better...it's like Tony has a self-contained force that he strives to understand (Kyros), which, I suppose, isn't uncommon in RPG's, but the fact that Tony assumes the stature and maturity of the great Magus Kyros while still achieving an impeccable level of humor (of course) gives this game an advantage, in my opinion.
I could go on, but I'll leave it at this: the story in this game is extraordinary.

Controls: 10/10
There is nothing to complain about here. I appreciate Tony's ability to run, as well as the lack of confinement to square-based movement, like in Pokémon and Dragon Warrior games.

Gameplay/Combat: 10/10
Again, this is just plain cool. The battle animations are just as good as, if not better than, in other games. I can't complain.

Game Length/Replayability: 10/10
This is no short game, either. The fun goes on and on – there seems to almost be no end to the tasks that are set before Tony. I still was in awe after numerous hours playing this game.

Overall: 10/10
Magi Nation extended beyond any expectation I could ever have for an RPG for the Game Boy Color. It’s simply wondrous in every aspect. If you want this game for yourself, don’t torture yourself by renting the game; you’ll just waste your money coming back for more. Buy it, and you won’t regret it one bit.

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 03/01/02, Updated 03/01/02