Crystal Quest
Reviewed by Aaron Bossig
Crystal Quest is pretty much an unknown game. It WAS licensed by Nintendo,
but was never mentioned in Nintendo Power. In fact, I never even saw it advertised
in any form. I consider myself very lucky to own this game. CQ is a puzzle game.
Each level, or "wave", sets you inside a room. The object of the game is to collect
all the crystals in the room. When this is accomplished, the doorway opens and you
may move on to the next wave. The task is made difficult by numerous enemies and
natural obstacles.
Graphics 5 out of 10
The graphics are no work of art, but they do the job. The graphics on Tetris
weren't spectacular either, but they didn't have to be. In a puzzle game, the key
is function, not graphics.
Music and Sound 6 out of 10
There is no music in Crystal Quest outside of the title screen and intermissions.
There are sound effects, rather nice ones too. Don't let that keep you away from
this game! This game is better without music. Learn to focus on the sound effects
to be warned of what's happening or about to happen.
Game Challenge 10 out of 10
This is one of those games that doesn't end. The levels (waves) get harder and harder
until you die. Crystal Quest will always be a challenge for your skills. The AI of the
enemies is second-to-none. For example, the mine-droppers know EXACTLY where to
put a mine so that you'll have to go near it. They usually put them around diamonds,
and you will need the hands of a surgeon to get the diamond without setting off the mine.
Game Play-Fun 10 out of 10
This is where Crystal Quest is truly unique! As you maneuver about the room, you
have to use the inertia of your spacecraft to your advantage! Bullets don't travel
unless you're moving! It's a kick to steer your spacecraft but it's easy to let it get
away. Learning the unique play control is one of the most difficult and most enjoyable
parts of this game.
Replayability 9 out of 10
You will never tire of this game. It is extremely addictive, all you're doing is getting
the diamonds and leaving, what could be simpler? But, no... it doesn't work that way.
The game is as addictive as Tetris or Dr. Mario. I mean that sincerely, you won't be able
to put Crystal Quest down once you start!
Game Value 10 out of 10
BUY THIS GAME!!! It should be pretty cheap at the local Funcoland, but if you can find
it new and have to pay retail, go for it! You will get your money's worth, I assure you.
If you're taking a long plane trip, Crystal Quest will somehow find it's way into your
Game Boy and you'll blow away that air time trying to snatch that last diamond, or
waiting to bomb a whole screen of nasties.
Overall 8.5 out of 10
It is a tragedy that this game isn't well known. For the puzzle gamer who likes a little
bit of action, Crystal Quest belongs in your collection. You'll play this constantly. As
far as puzzle games go, this is the greatest!