Summary
- Release Year: 2004
- Genres: Shooter
- Platforms: Game Boy Advance
- Developers: Climax Group
- Publishers: Global Star Software
Serious Sam Advance: A Time-Bending Retro FPS Adventure
Released in 2004 for the Game Boy Advance, Serious Sam Advance is a retro first-person shooter (FPS) that takes players on a time-bending adventure through ancient Rome. Developed by Climax Studios and published by 2K Games, the game is a spin-off of the popular Serious Sam series, known for its over-the-top action, hordes of enemies, and quirky sense of humor.
Story
Serious Sam Advance follows the titular protagonist, Serious Sam Stone, as he travels back in time to ancient Rome. Scientists have discovered a way to use the timelock to send people to any point in history, and Sam is tasked with investigating why people haven’t been returning from the Roman era.
As Sam arrives in ancient Rome, he quickly discovers that Mental, the evil alien overlord from the Serious Sam series, is behind the disappearances. Mental has sent his minions to wreak havoc on the Roman Empire, and Sam must stop them before they destroy the past and alter the course of history.
Gameplay
Serious Sam Advance is a classic FPS, featuring fast-paced action, hordes of enemies, and an arsenal of powerful weapons. Players control Sam from a first-person perspective as he travels through twelve levels, battling Mental’s minions and completing objectives.
The game features ten weapons, most of which are taken from the other Serious Sam games. These include the iconic double shotgun, minigun, rocket launcher, and laser gun. Each weapon has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, and players must choose the right weapon for each situation.
Enemies in Serious Sam Advance are varied and deadly. Players will face off against headless kamikazes, giant spiders, exploding zombies, and even Mental’s personal bodyguard, the Kleer. Each enemy has its own unique attack patterns and behaviors, and players must learn to adapt their tactics to survive.
Levels
Serious Sam Advance spans twelve levels, each set in a different location in ancient Rome. Players will battle their way through the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Circus Maximus, and even the underworld. Each level is filled with secrets and challenges, and players must explore every nook and cranny to find all the hidden items and complete the level objectives.
Graphics and Sound
For a Game Boy Advance game, Serious Sam Advance has impressive graphics. The levels are detailed and atmospheric, and the character models are well-animated. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, featuring a mix of heavy metal and orchestral music that perfectly captures the game’s over-the-top action.
Reception
Serious Sam Advance was met with positive reviews upon release. Critics praised the game’s fast-paced action, hordes of enemies, and varied level design. The game was also praised for its impressive graphics and sound for a Game Boy Advance title.
Legacy
Serious Sam Advance is a classic retro FPS that still holds up today. The game’s over-the-top action, hordes of enemies, and quirky sense of humor make it a blast to play. If you’re a fan of classic FPS games or the Serious Sam series, then you owe it to yourself to check out Serious Sam Advance.
Tips for Playing Serious Sam Advance
- Use the right weapon for each situation. Some weapons are more effective against certain enemies than others.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Enemies can attack from all sides, so always be on the lookout for danger.
- Use cover to your advantage. There are plenty of objects in the levels that you can use to hide behind and protect yourself from enemy fire.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment. There are many different ways to play Serious Sam Advance, so find what works best for you.
- Have fun! Serious Sam Advance is a game that’s meant to be enjoyed, so don’t take it too seriously and just have fun blasting away at Mental’s minions.
Review Score
7.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
