Metal Arms: Glitch in the System (Game Cube, 2003)

Don't let the cover fool you. This isn't a kid's game. True, the graphics, while they look dated now, retain a somewhat cute, childish appeal, the rest of the game is tough as nails, and an absolute blast to play through. Many question the rating of 'Strong Language'. This origionates from the fact that a secondary character says a certain four letter word very often that, while bleeped out, instantly makes this a game for parents to be wary of. But, this also accounts for a large ammount of the game's surprising humor. There's some seriously funny stuff in here. But, if you can handle/stand strong (bleeped) language, you're in for an absolute thrill ride.
Borrowing a lot of inspiration from Sony's extremely popular 'Ratchet and Clank' series, Metal Arms performs exactly like a FPS, except in third-person. Outlandish weapons, simultanious gunning and grenading, and a good dollop of straifing permiate this title.
Swinging Ape Studios put an incredible ammount of thought into this title, including area specific damage to your robot enemies. Shoot them in the arm, it'll flop around uselessly, fireing in all directions. Once in a while, your adversaries will be reduced to a pair of legs running amlessly around.
For me, multiplayer was the main reason for buying this title, and boy, is it good. Acting like Halo on a budget, Metal Arms lets you use tanks, smaller vehicles, as well as other items to battle it out with your three favorite buds. Maps can be unlocked by progressing in the single player mode, and it's well worth it.
Metal Arms also adds an interesting side note into the multiplayer. At any time, a player can tap into an idle bot on the field, takeing control of him, then returning to his starting form when the idle bot has been destroyed. Add in the ability to 'capture' these bots, and allow the CPU to fight with you against your friends, and the multiplayer easily is some of the best the GameCube has to offer. Seriously. If FPS multiplayer is your thing, you can't go wrong with Metal Arms.
In conclusion, Metal Arms is a wonderful title for fans of 'Ratchet and Clank' or just those with itchy trigger fingers. It really is sad that this title never sold well, since Swinging Ape studios poured a good ammount of heart and soul into the makeing of this game. Do yourself a favor and pick this one up. The title's not above $20, anyways.