Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone Game Boy Color

Proving there's an awful lot you can still get out of the Game Boy Color, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone manages to pack a cartridge with a full and varied game that will no doubt be enjoyed by its young following.

Following the plot of the film and book closely, the game itself isn't too original. Certainly we've seen overhead exploration, card collecting and turn-based combat many times before, and arguably it's been done better (Pokémon, anyone?). For this game isn't without its fair share of tedious moments, although fortunately there's a lot to enjoy as well, and the sheer size of it means it's going to take several hours to get well into it.

Graphically, the developers have done a fine job, with recognisable characters and locations sure to please the younger players, and it's fun interacting with the various people dotted around. The puzzles aren't particularly taxing, which further endears the game to the less experienced player, although things do get quite repetitive and it will take much perseverance to see things through to the end.

Overall, though, this is quite a good movie tie-in, stretching the Game Boy Color's capabilities to the limit and delivering a big, diverting and good value for money game that, while not blowing them away, is likely to entertain its target audience quite comfortably. --Simon Brew

Manufacturer's Description

Be Harry Potter in this Game Boy Color game. Learn to master all things magical in a world of wizardry, fun and danger adapted specifically for the Game Boy Color. Trade and collect Famous Wizard cards to strengthen Harry's skills as you explore, cast spells, gather potons and items, and battle adversaries in turn-based Magical Encounters. Journey to Diagon Alley and Hogwarts and interact with characters like Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, Draco Malfoy, Albus Dumbledore and Rubeus Hagrid.