
a rare gem... a shame so few have played it

An off-shoot of the Megami Tensei series, Jack Bros. is top-down action/puzzle game for the Virtual Boy, and it's also one of the rarest games for that system.
The game is quite fun, it actually plays a lot like the dungeons from Legend of Zelda: Link to the Past. You start from the top floor, and, gathering keys, work your way through traps and enemies to the exit and drop down to the next level, descending until you reach the stage boss.
Jack Bros. throws a nice mix of puzzle and action elements at you, which are made all the more interesting by the unique health system: not only is each stage timed, but every time you're hit you lose an extra chunk of time, anywhere from 5-30 seconds. it's this mix of speed and caution which really makes the game fun.
Control is sharp, thanks in large part to the virtual Boy's dual D-pad layout.
There are 4 characters to choose from (3 selectable, one secret), each with different attributes and his own unique special move. If you want the most challenge, play as Jack Skelton, sneaking around with his short-ranged sword attack really brings out the best of the game design.
The graphics and sound are nice, and the 3D effects really draw the player into the game.
If you have the cash, check this game out, 9/10 overall.
Review ID: 10000000014073852

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