Gaming Target - Game Boy: Sabre Wulf

Written by Jonathan Nicklas on August 02, 2001

First Impressions: Sabre Wulf makes a Rare Advancement in this 21st century

Sabre Wulf enthusiasts should take pleasure in the news that a Game Boy Advance update is indeed in the works. For the uninitiated, in 1984, development studio, Ultimate, unleashed predecessor Sabre Wulf (Spectrum, C64, Amstrad, BBC), a 2-D adventure gem that incorporated comprehensive graphics of its time, impeccable environments, and intuitive gameplay. A subliminal cameo courtesy of the firm's Nintendo 64 effort, Banjo-Tooie, subsequently signaled a Nintendo GameCube follow up. However, at the 2001 E│ Exposition, Rare indeed revealed Sabre Wulf, although in the form of a Game Boy Advance sequel.

The game follows the exploits of protagonist explorer Sabreman in this new and original quest. According to Rare's official headquarters, his nemesis, Sabrewulf, has been put to work stealing all the valuables of the land to fund his mysterious master's animal enslaving plans. Indeed, Sabreman's task is retrieving the stolen valuables. However, even if he does, Sabrewulf is in pursuit of Sabreman en route to the safety of his tent.

Creatures in tropical jungles have discrete qualities and abilities, and Sabreman must create inevitable traps and obstacles that will slow Sabrewulf. In addition, creatures help conquer the plethora of obstacles. However, deciding which creatures to use and where is the strategy, and an integral part of the quest. Furthermore, only a limited number of creatures can be taken to each level.

Apparently, Sabre Wulf will have four-player multiplayer modes. No word on the mini-games, although we'll keep you updated. In terms of visual splendor, thus far, Sabre Wulf is excellent. The game's Rare-caliber is evident. The game sprites are meticulously put together, while villages are in a top-down isometric perspective and have friendly neighborhood non-playable characters. However, the game's premise is the platform formula, and Sabre Wulf's environments have in-depth intricacies and a unique twist.