THQ Sonic Advance 3 (GBA) Childrens PC and Video Games

The game can be viewed from any of three angles (side-on, front and back) and generally takes the form of a chase sequence or a more puzzle-oriented maze-like adventure. In one, for example, you must negotiate a maze of jellyfish, in another avoid the unwanted proddings of a scuba-diver as he attempts to catch you from behind.

Clearly aimed at younger fans of the film, Finding Nemo is not particularly difficult or complex, but the graphics are generally very good and the voiceovers, featuring most of the cast from the movie, are excellent. The load times though are atrocious and almost ruin what is otherwise a perfect way to keep unruly children quiet and entertained. --David Jenkins

The game can be viewed from any of three angles (side-on, front and back) and generally takes the form of a chase sequence or a more puzzle-oriented maze-like adventure. In one, for example, you must negotiate a maze of jellyfish, in another avoid the unwanted proddings of a scuba-diver as he attempts to catch you from behind.

Clearly aimed at younger fans of the film, Finding Nemo is not particularly difficult or complex, but the graphics are generally very good and the voiceovers, featuring most of the cast from the movie, are excellent. The load times though are atrocious and almost ruin what is otherwise a perfect way to keep unruly children quiet and entertained. --David Jenkins

Each level consists of you battling a member of the Gravillian family and is split into Charge, Attack and Guard sections. Attacking and charging involves rotating the analog stick while well-timed button presses charge your energy bar or attack your opponent. Guard mode is frenetic as symbols fly towards the middle of the screen while you press the appropriate button to avoid taking damage. The action can switch from attack to guard in a split second, which ensures chaotic gameplay. Each levels uses one or all of these modes in differing order, which shakes up the often rigid routes that Bemani games can take.

The graphics have a pleasing colourful Japanese cartoon style but the constant background action can sometimes obscure vital onscreen info. Crucially, the music doesn't grate on repeated plays and the interaction between your button bashing and the guitar works really well. Gitaroo Man benefits from the rethink of the usual control methods (and the overactive imagination that thought up the bizarre characters & locations). This probably won't convert non-Bemani fans but those who are into rhythm games will love it.--Jonathan Winter