Game: Bust a Move 4| Release: October 31st, 1998| Genre: Puzzle| Publisher: Natsume| Developer: Taito
Bust a Move 4, also known as Puzzle Bobble 4 in Japan, is a puzzle video game developed by Taito Corporation and released for the PlayStation in 1998. The game is the fourth installment in the popular Bust a Move series, which is known for its colorful graphics, catchy music, and addictive gameplay.
The game features two main modes: Puzzle and Vs. Puzzle mode is the classic Bust a Move gameplay, where the player must clear bubbles from the screen by matching three or more of the same color. Vs mode is a competitive mode where two players face off against each other, trying to clear their screens faster than their opponent.
One of the highlights of Bust a Move 4 is its vibrant and colorful graphics. The game features a cartoonish art style, with cute characters and playful backgrounds. The music is also catchy and memorable, with upbeat tunes that complement the gameplay nicely.
However, the game’s difficulty can be frustrating at times. The later levels of Puzzle mode can be extremely challenging, requiring quick reflexes and precise aim. This can lead to a sense of repetition and frustration, as players are forced to replay levels over and over again in order to progress.
Another issue with Bust a Move 4 is the lack of innovation compared to previous entries in the series. The game introduces a few new power-ups and game modes, but overall, it feels like a rehash of the same formula that worked in the previous games.
Overall, Bust a Move 4 is a solid entry in the puzzle genre, with charming visuals and catchy music. However, its difficulty and lack of innovation prevent it from standing out among the other games in the series.
Bust a Move 4 Gameplay
Bust a Move 4 for the PlayStation offers a gameplay experience that is both familiar and addictive. The game retains the classic match-three bubble-popping formula that has made the series so popular, but adds a few new features to keep things fresh.
The Puzzle mode, which is the main attraction of the game, is well-designed and challenging. Players must use their bubble-shooting skills to clear the screen of bubbles, with each level offering its own unique layout and challenges. The difficulty ramps up nicely as players progress, making for a satisfying sense of progression.
The Vs. mode, which allows two players to face off against each other, is also enjoyable. The competitive aspect adds a new layer of strategy and excitement, as players must not only clear their own screen but also hinder their opponent’s progress.
One of the new features introduced in Bust a Move 4 is the addition of special bubbles that offer power-ups. For example, a bomb bubble will clear a large area of bubbles when popped, while a rainbow bubble will change the color of the bubbles it touches. These power-ups add a new level of strategy to the game, as players must decide whether to prioritize clearing bubbles or collecting power-ups.
However, the game does suffer from a lack of innovation. While the addition of power-ups is a nice touch, it doesn’t significantly change the core gameplay. Additionally, the graphics and sound, while charming, are not a significant improvement over previous games in the series.
Overall, Bust a Move 4 offers a fun and addictive gameplay experience that will keep players engaged for hours. While it may not offer significant innovation, it’s a solid entry in the puzzle genre that will satisfy fans of the series.
Rating: 8/10
Bust a Move 4 Story
Bust a Move 4 for the PlayStation is a puzzle game that does not have a strong emphasis on story. While there is some minimal plot presented in the game’s opening and ending cutscenes, it is not a major focus of the gameplay.
The game’s opening cutscene shows a group of cute characters traveling through space on a mission to save the universe from a mysterious force. The ending cutscene shows the characters celebrating their victory after defeating the force. While this is a simple and charming story, it is not elaborated on in any significant way during the gameplay.
One aspect of the game that may be considered a “story” element is the introduction of new characters. Bust a Move 4 introduces several new characters to the series, each with their own unique personality and design. While this does add some variety to the game, it does not significantly impact the overall gameplay experience.
Overall, the story in Bust a Move 4 is minimal and not a major focus of the game. While the cute characters and opening and ending cutscenes add some charm to the game, they do not contribute much to the overall experience.
Rating: 5/10
Bust a Move 4 Difficulty
Bust a Move 4 for the PlayStation can be a challenging game, especially in its later levels. The game requires quick reflexes and precise aim, and the difficulty ramps up nicely as players progress through the levels.
One of the challenging aspects of the game is its time limit. Players must clear the bubbles from the screen before the time runs out, which can be difficult when faced with complex layouts and multiple colors. This time limit adds a sense of urgency to the gameplay, forcing players to act quickly and make split-second decisions.
Another aspect of the game that can be challenging is the introduction of new gameplay mechanics. For example, some levels require players to clear bubbles in a specific order, while others introduce new types of bubbles that require different strategies to pop. These mechanics can be difficult to master, and require a lot of trial and error to get right.
However, the game can also be frustratingly difficult at times. Some levels require near-perfect play in order to progress, and the penalty for failure (having to start the level over again) can be demotivating. Additionally, the Vs. mode can be difficult for less experienced players, as it requires not only bubble-popping skills but also strategic thinking and quick reflexes.
Overall, the difficulty in Bust a Move 4 can be both challenging and frustrating. While the time limit and new mechanics add a nice level of challenge, some levels can feel overly difficult and repetitive.
Rating: 7/10
Bust a Move 4 Graphics
Bust a Move 4 for the PlayStation features colorful and vibrant graphics that are consistent with the series’ overall aesthetic. The game features cute and playful character designs, as well as detailed and varied backgrounds that add to the game’s overall charm.
The character animations are smooth and lively, with each character having their own unique movements and expressions. The bubble animations are also well-done, with each color having its own distinct shape and texture.
However, the graphics in Bust a Move 4 are not a significant improvement over previous entries in the series. While the game is visually appealing, it does not take full advantage of the PlayStation’s capabilities, and can feel a bit dated compared to more modern puzzle games.
Additionally, the graphics in the game’s Vs. mode can be a bit cluttered, with the two players’ screens overlapping and making it difficult to keep track of the bubbles. This can be frustrating for players who are trying to strategize and plan their moves.
Overall, the graphics in Bust a Move 4 are charming and consistent with the series’ overall aesthetic, but do not offer significant improvements over previous games in the series.
Rating: 7/10
Bust a Move 4 Controls
Bust a Move 4 for the PlayStation has simple and responsive controls that are easy to learn and use. The game’s basic controls involve moving the bubble launcher left and right using the directional pad, and pressing the X button to shoot the bubbles. The controls are intuitive and feel natural, making it easy for players of all skill levels to pick up and play.
One aspect of the controls that can be challenging is the precision required to aim the bubbles. While the controls are responsive, aiming the bubbles accurately can take some practice and skill. This is especially true in the later levels, where the bubble layouts become more complex and require precise aiming in order to clear.
Additionally, the controls in the Vs. mode can feel a bit cramped, as the two players’ screens overlap and make it difficult to see the bubbles. This can make it challenging to aim and shoot accurately, and can be frustrating for players who are trying to strategize and plan their moves.
Overall, the controls in Bust a Move 4 are simple and responsive, with a bit of a learning curve when it comes to precise aiming. While the controls in the Vs. mode can feel cramped, they are generally well-designed and easy to use.
Rating: 8/10
Bust a Move 4 Sound
Bust a Move 4 for the PlayStation features a lively and upbeat soundtrack that complements the game’s colorful visuals and playful tone. The music is catchy and memorable, with each level having its own unique track that adds to the overall experience.
The sound effects in the game are also well-done, with satisfying popping sounds when bubbles are cleared and fun sound effects for power-ups and other gameplay elements. The sound effects are distinct and help to enhance the overall gameplay experience.
However, the sound design in Bust a Move 4 is not a significant improvement over previous entries in the series. While the music and sound effects are enjoyable, they do not offer anything new or innovative compared to previous games in the series.
Additionally, the sound in the Vs. mode can be a bit overwhelming, with both players’ sound effects overlapping and making it difficult to distinguish between them. This can be frustrating for players who are trying to keep track of their own progress and the progress of their opponent.
Overall, the sound in Bust a Move 4 is enjoyable and well-done, but does not offer significant improvements over previous games in the series.
Rating: 7/10
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Bust a Move 4 Overall Rating
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