tom&jerry_frl&r Commodore 64 game

TOM & JERRY - A DIGITAL CAT-AND-MOUSE DELIGHT

In the vibrant tapestry of gaming adventures, where creativity meets technology, Magic Bytes unveils a whimsical tale starring the timeless duo, Tom and Jerry. Building on their experience with the Pink Panther, the developers dive into the world of these iconic characters, presenting a delightful escapade priced at C64 £9.99 cassette, £19.99 disk; Amiga £24.99.

Embark on a captivating journey alongside Jerry, the lovable mouse with a penchant for cheese, navigating five horizontally-scrolling levels filled with challenges. Contrary to expectations, Tom's pursuit of Jerry isn't driven by a desire for a mousey meal but rather for the sheer joy of the chase. As Jerry scampers through diverse locales, from the nursery to the garage, the clock adds an element of urgency, demanding nimble maneuvering to savor victory within the ever-decreasing time limit.

Jerry's agility is put to the test as he bounces on springy sofas and chairs to reach towering spots, all while Tom remains hot on his trail. The game introduces a charming touch of slapstick humor, with Tom facing comical mishaps like being squashed by a bowling ball or slipping on a banana peel. Amid the laughter, the occasional challenge arises from Jerry's controls, adding a touch of unpredictability to the gameplay.

To outsmart Tom, Jerry showcases an array of tricks inspired by the classic cartoons. Objects can be strategically dropped on Tom's head, banana peels become playful traps, and various distractions like changing the TV channel or opening the icebox add layers of clever gameplay. The inclusion of mouseholes that connect the levels introduces an engaging 3-D scrolling tunnel sequence, where Jerry collects cheese for extra time while avoiding bombs that deduct precious seconds.

In terms of visuals, the C64 version impresses with commendable graphics and initially engaging gameplay. The Amiga iteration adds a catchy continuous tune to the mix, though the graphics may leave players yearning for a bit more. Both platforms, however, share the common challenge of potentially repetitive gameplay, prompting players to question the enduring appeal of this basic platform-and-ladders game.

While not without its imperfections, Tom and Jerry's digital romp succeeds in delivering moments of genuine delight. The charm of witnessing Tom's comical misadventures resonates well with the spirit of the beloved cartoon. Despite occasional control quirks and concerns about lasting engagement, the game's positive aspects shine through, making it a worthwhile experience for fans of the iconic duo.

In the realm of critical evaluation, the C64 presentation garners a respectable 50%, featuring 'Acid Mouse' poems and instructions with some translation nuances. Graphics receive a commendable 66% for reasonable backgrounds and characterful sprites, while sound, though not groundbreaking, earns a fair 42%. Hookability starts strong at 45%, and while Lastability may waver at 40%, the overall score stands at a commendable 43%.

The Amiga presentation mirrors its C64 counterpart with a 48% rating, housing the same 'Acid Mouse' content in a larger box. Graphics receive a slightly lower 32%, yet the continuous cartoon-like tune lifts sound to an impressive 63%. Although Hookability takes a dip to 28%, and Lastability settles at 26%, the overall Amiga score reaches a respectable 27%.

In conclusion, Tom and Jerry's digital escapade, while not without its challenges, emerges as a charming ode to the iconic duo. Magic Bytes, having ventured into the realm of cartoon licensing once more, delivers an experience that captures the essence of the beloved characters, making it a worthwhile pursuit for fans seeking a lighthearted and entertaining gaming experience.