Bionicle: Matoran Adventures [GBA]

While the first game wasn't exactly a "classic" Game Boy Advance title, Lego Bionicle is about to get a second adventure on the handheld system. Electronic Arts had an early version of its Bionicle: Matoran Adventures title on display at the company's Camp EA press event back in July -- we'll give you a hands-on update soon -- and we parlayed up to the GBA system to give the game a go. We can safely say that this game is much better than the original.

Developed by Argonaut Software (yes, the Star Fox studio), Bionicle: Matoran Adventures (note the absence of the Lego branding) offers a much different take than Lego Bionicle: Tales of the Tohunga. The new game throws out the overhead rendered engine developed by Saffire, and instead goes for a more action-and-puzzle oriented game design that seems to borrow heavily from The Lost Vikings.

In the very early version on display, players initially take control of two different Bionicle characters and make their way through the side-scrolling platform environment, switching between the two characters as the situations require it. The smaller character can attack creatures from a distance, and the larger character can open up areas and trigger switches to advance further in the game.

The game on display was barely alpha, but it definitely showed the promising action/puzzle design...even if the title's aimed at the younger audience. When th title's finished, there will be six different environments (lava, jungle, ice), six Matoran and six Turaga characters to pick up, six full levels and three boss rounds.

Check out the latest screenshots of the game in action.

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