Gaming Target - Game Boy: Banjo-Kazooie: Grunty's Revenge

Written by Kevin Stapf on June 26, 2001

First Impressions: Can the dynamic duo from the N64 bring their success to the GBA?

Our favorite bear and bird combo from the N64 is back for an all-new adventure on the Game Boy Advance. Banjo-Kazooie: Grunty's Revenge takes place after the first Banjo-Kazooie title, switching around all the actions that led up to the second game. This will provide an answer to all gamers whom have wondered what would happen if the specific course of action leading towards Banjo-Tooie never took place. Taking this approach to a story is a first as far as plot lines go and shows that the developers are trying something new and bringing a fresh sense of originality to the story of the game.

The games on the N64 were able to immerse you in full 3D, but due to the limitations of the GBA, (man I can't believe I am talking about limitations already) the developers are faced with the challenge of bringing the game to life in a new 2D engine from a top down perspective. Even though the game is in extremely early development when shown at this year's Electronic Entertainment Expo, from what we have seen thus far, it looks excellent.

While many of the early games released for the Game Boy Advance look good, Banjo-Kazooie is looking to top them all. Even in this title's early stages, Banjo and Kazooie each move with just as much fluidity as a figure skater, as they take their adventures through a very lush and detailed world, where they're sure to meet up with tons of characters aiding them throughout their quest. Many familiar moves will once again be under your control as well as a few new ones for you to learn to help you along this puzzle solving, action packed quest, to once again stop your arch nemesis.