Viewtiful Joe (Gamecube)

By JON MINIFIE

(Herald rating: * * * * *)

Capcom's Viewtiful Joe is one of the more wacky titles I've seen in recent times (complete with eye-popping visuals) but now that it's here, side-scrolling platformers will probably never be the same again. The Gamecube already has numerous AAA+ exclusives but Viewtiful Joe is the best reason to own a Cube.

The plot is suitably twisted. Joe is a fan of kung-fu movies, particularly the ones that star his beloved masked superhero, Captain Blue. While Joe and his girlfriend are watching a Captain Blue film on the big screen, the monster inexplicably comes alive and kidnaps Joe's girlfriend, carrying her away inside the screen.

At this point Joe transports himself to the movie world and sets out to rescue his girl. There he meets Captain Blue who provides a spiffy red uniform and trains Joe to pull off basic attack moves, such as punches, kicks and acrobatic flip jumps.

As Joe makes his way through the movie world, he'll learn new, more advanced tricks and acquire new skills and powers, not least the ability to slow down time.

Similar to bullet time (made famous by The Matrix franchise) by holding the left trigger you can implement slow motion, allowing Joe to dodge bullets and attack his foes with the utmost precision. The control, too, is impressive and almost Nintendo-like in its precision.

If you have a Gamecube, you need to consider getting hold of this game. Part platformer, part action title and fun for young and old, Viewtiful Joe is plain proof that there is still room in the industry for originality and innovation.

$109.95

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