Remember the old Arcade game Asteroids? Well, quadruple the fun and what you end up with is 21st Century Galaga: Destination: EARTH! This Gameboy color game is game that is not only fun and challenging but also highly addictive!

The story opens with the colonization of mankind, as we know it going askew. What is worse is that it is spiraling toward earth and at no slow speed. The only things that can save earth is you and your elite group of chose space fighters. This mission is critical as not only are you saving mankind itself, but since you are a member of the species you too are at danger and that makes this personal.

When the game starts you will find yourself and your space fighters pelted rapidly with Aliens. Quick firings are needed at all times and don't let your guard down for a minute as when you advance level to level they come even quicker. Each space fighter is given 2 weapon systems: Laser cannons and Ion cannons. Make sure though that before you start the game you read which weapon system is needed to successfully destroy what alien is attacking you. While one blast from the Laser cannon a Recon or Combat, an Scout Alien will require two blasts to successfully destroy it.

You will have to conquer four battlefields to win this game and each battlefield takes place in a different location of the Universe. Each battlefield also has its own special menace so be sure to use all your fire power you can get. Also beware of Tractor Beams. These are indiscriminately aimed at your space fighter when you least expect it and when hit, your fighter is captured and relegated to the top of your screen. Don't worry though as you are immediately assigned a new fighter to help complete your mission.

This game is one of those games which can be played over and over and enjoyed as much the 100th time as the first. I like the way it always keeps moving and does not allow you to let your guard down for a moment. This is one Gameboy color game that will be played for years and years to come.

Installation:
The only thing I am adding here is the one installation tip for all Gameboy games, color and black and white. Always make sure your Gameboy is completely turned off before putting in the cartridge. I know that most gamers know this, and I apologize for adding it, but my neighbor bought one for her little boy this Christmas and since they had never owned one, they added it after the Gameboy was already on and lost a game.

Gameplay: 9.0
Gameplay is quick and furious and only lets up between battles. Beams thrown in at random times also make you stay on your toes. Nice added feature.

Graphics: 8.0
Graphics are great. Bold colors and very well defined objects from Alien to Space Fighter. I especially like this fact as when playing a game on a smaller screen it is always important to have each object well defined so you can separate friend and foe.

Sound: 8.0
The sound effects are good. They really add to the game itself as there is something satisfying about hearing the aliens explode into space.

Difficulty: 9.0
The difficulty is perfect for the game. For younger gamers, 7 to 9, it may be a little too fast at first but once they have played a few times, believe me they will give you a run for your money. Good pace throughout the game.

Concept: 9.0
The concept is much like the original with a lot of great new features. It is a rescue mission and involves a great deal of strategy. Knowing when to hop, increase your height or float makes this a game in which you have to plan carefully. Fun all the way through though.

Multiplayer
Multiplayer is an option and if you decide to go this way, make sure you read the booklet and introduction when the game comes on. I played both ways and the game slightly differs depending on which way you go.

Overall: 8.5