"Bubblin' on the GO!!"

The Bust-A-Move franchise (known as Puzzle Bobble in Japan) has seen release on just about every system in the past decade. And now... it adds the PSP under it's belt,

What's so special about this version? Well... if you must know... this is the first TRUE Bust-A-Move game released on ANY portable system. While not quite as polished as it could have been, this version is on the same level as those found on the home consoles, or for that matter, the arcade. Along with some new updates to the game not seen since Bust-A-Move 4, this game is a true addiction alongside the PSP's other big puzzle game, Lumines.

Now... onto the review ^_^

Gameplay

Bust-A-Move Deluxe is host to a BUNCH of new game modes. As I said, there hasn't been any major gameplay adds such as these since 1998's Bust-A-Move 4.

Aside from the Classic Mode, you'll also find new modes such as Running Launcher Puzzle, where the pointer moves from left to right, making it challenging to shoot where you want. My most favorite of all the new modes would have to be the Shot Puzzle, in which you are given a setup, and you have one shot to make it or break it. VERY challenging.

You may notice, however that this game moves at a noticably slower pace than previous Bust-A-Move titles. But aside from that, the transition remains on par with the big console releases.

The REAL fun is getting a friend and playing 2-player via ad-hoc. Prepare for hours upon hours of VS play without blinking. Get those eye drops ready because you're gonna need it.

Graphics

Unlike the other portable versions of Bust-A-Move released over the years (namely, the GBC, GBA and NGP version) this game has ALL the vividness intact. The graphics are perfect for the first time on ANY portable system thanks to the powerhouse PSP and it's bright widescreen.

Sound

While not a total gripe, this is where Bust-A-Move deluxe falls short. The music in this game has broken away from the happy, upbeat style of BAM's past soundtracks to a gloomy, more worry-some type of musical score. While not bad, it kind of detracts from the gameplay aspect of it. On a side note, the traditional BAM soundtracks have been replaced with brand new sounds. While not bad, the absense of the old sounds really makes the game feel less whole.

Overall

This is a definite must-buy for Bust-A-Move fans and puzzle fans, in general. Good for long trips, and if you can find a friend with it, good for non-stop competitive play.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 04/13/06