James Pond 2: Codename: RoboCod

The Good
Robocod has been released on multiple platforms. James Pond can be enjoyed on no less than 10 systems. With so many conversions around I have played almost all of them. The NDS version has some original new levels and the penguin bombs have been replaced by santa's little helpers. Since there was never a reference to the penguin chocolates, what was the reason to keep the penguin bombs in it? But the cd32 version took me by surprise, it positively has the same graphics as the Amiga 500 version but it has at least better control with the cd32 gamepad and it has surprisingly good audio tracks! There is also some sort of James Bond tune when you approach Santa's castle. It seems to have better gameplay than the 16-bits versions. Pond has some additional "ouch" screams when he gets hurt that are not in the Sega version. The SNES version had the better colours but unfortunately it was ruined by horrible slowdown. But there are even more extra's. It has an introduction movie and a great filing system where you can read about every enemy that is in the game.

The Bad
The tunes are jolly but they can also get on your nerves!

The Bottom Line
Finally a cd32 game that uses a cd disc to it's potential. Until today, it is still the best version of James Pond 2.

The Good
Firstly its cute look: Like Fury of the Furries you like the game at once. And to be honest playing in a toy world with its amazingly funny music is a real enjoyment. I like the way the game comes with: Creative ideas like its all-time colourful super-scroll and the ability to play a level in a reverse angle... You don't have to worry about blind alleys no longer like you did in games like Gods: Scretch up yourself wherever you are (there is always something on the top to grab hold of!)

The Bad
You can't save your game. If you want to finish RoboCod you have to play it from start to the end continuously. And although its super-scroll is looking great after you play a while it gets tiring.

The Bottom Line
A very cute platform game with a perfect look. You can't resist its charm!

The Good
James Pond himself was a lovable hero, with some great facial expressions and abilities. The enemies are varied across the levels, with my personal favourite being the birds on the games level, with playing cards for wings. Hidden sections abound, rewarding you for taking risks with extra lives and points. Many levels had a secret exit, and this ensured that the game's fun could continue after you completed it.

The Bad
The controls weren't 100% responsive, and some people felt that it was too unclear as to the correct route through. It had one of those annoying levels which had you jumping across the roof of the platforms of a moving train.

The Bottom Line
A platform game with several differences. One of the most popular titles of its day, aided by catchy music, colourful graphics and some imaginative level designs, as well as Pond's unique Inspector Gadget-style stretch ability