Monster rancher is one of those unloved series that doesn't really fit in to a specific category, despite it being a incredibly good franchise that is completely original (imagine that! I can't think of any games it has stolen from, it's only resemblance to pokemon is that is has monsters. Thats it.) Monster rancher advance 2 is a must have for the gba or ds if you are patient and enjoy caring for and battling virtual pets, or enjoy strategy games. The game has an almost endless replay value with over 500 different varieties of monsters, all with unique personallities, skills, and traits. The graphics are supurb for the GBA, even today. Fully animated monsters that aren't just flat looking cutouts like pokemon. The way you aquire monsters is also fun, you type in a word and it creates a monster, there are infinite combinations, some giving very rare monsters that only come from one particular word. Try putting in a obscene word and see what monster comes from it! The game has tons of things to unlock and do. The sound is also above average, with mood setting tunes and good sound effects in battle, and all monsters have their own call. The battle system can be complicated, especially if your new to the series, but you should figure it out eventually, or read a guide, because once learn it, it is enjoyable yet not too simple to bore you or make it too easy. Monster rancher has transitioned very well from the playstation onto the gameboy advance. This is by far one of my favorite monster rancher titles, and it deserves more attention. I sold it once only to regret it a year later and I am very glad to have it back in my collection, it is truly a treasure, and I intend on playing it even when I get my DS. If you see this game and own a GBA, buy it and give it a chance, it is a unique and enjoyable experience that is hard to forget.
Pros- +Huge array of monsters to use and train. * Nice almost 3-D ish monster graphics and moves * A very long lasting game with almost infinite replay value * Tons of monsters and items to unlock and aquire, battles can give quite a well needed challenge.
Cons- - Training can get repetitive - battle system can be complicated to those new to the series or those who don't bother reading instructions or looking up a guide. - Will not appeal to everyone, especially those with stubborn minds or huge egos.
Monster Rancher Advance 2 is one of those games you can't put down. For the GBA, it has great graphics. Trying to unlock all of the 512 different species and subspecies of monsters is a challenge, and every one is diffe... Read Full Review
Great graphics for monsters on the GBA, great replay value, you'll want to keep playing and playing and playing until you've perfected the perfect monster and then hope that your friend gets the game too so you can kick ... Read Full Review
