Looking for a quality character-based action-adventure? Dig up "Sphinx" from its bargain bin tomb!
Gameplay: 9
Sphinx is a Zelda-clone, and it makes no bones about it. On the Gamecube, the controls are laid out nearly identically to the Wind Waker. Several core aspects, such as inventory, side quests, and a good sense of freedom all come from the Zelda school of thought. Is this a bad thing? Far from it! The Zelda system works well for action-adventures and Sphinx capitalizes on it. The control is instantly accessible, and the gameplay is a nice mix of questing, platforming, and straight up combat.
In fact, Sphinx actually adds some aspects to the Zelda formula that I feel are for the better. First of all, you actually jump in the game, making for some fun though potentially curse-inducing challenges throughout the game. The ability to jump, and later to double jump, adds to combat as well, as you can perform aerial slams and easily move out of the way of enemies. There is also a Pokemon-esque system of creature capturing in the game. Though basic, it does come into play in several of the puzzles. Plus, it adds extra challenge for those completists who want to complete the games bestiary.
The game's combat is well-done as well, with some decent boss fights along the way. Sphinx learns new abilities from these bosses that help you reach previously inaccessible areas (ala Metroid and the like). My only complaint with the gameplay for Sphinx is that there is no lock-on in combat, making facing multiple enemies a royal pain.
Sphinx is not the only character in the game, however. In fact, it is his companion, The Cursed Mummy, that provides the most memorable sequences in the game. Mummy can't fight at all, but he has the ability to be maimed and mutilated thanks to his recent dead state. You use this ability to solve a variety of puzzles, such as setting him on fire to burn down a blockade or slicing him in three to press multiple switches at once. The Mummy's puzzle are always creative and never seem too hard or too easy. They are definitely the aspect that sets Sphinx apart, and the number one reason to try this game.
Graphics: 8
Sphinx's graphics are very well done, giving off a nice edgy vibe for the demigod Sphinx and a much more comical one for the bumbling Mummy. Levels are well-detailed, with a nice colorful array of locales and textures. Enemies are well done, though their animations are at times a tad simple. The game has a bit of a cartoonish look to it, mixed with healthy doses of Egyptian art (especially for NPCs and main characters). Framerate is rock steady through most of the game, assuring that slowdown is no excuse for a pathetic attempt at a jump. The camera is good too, with full player control over it via the C-Stick. The best thing I can say about Sphinx is that it has a style all its own, which is a good thing in this modern world of me-too realism in graphics. While its nothing ground breaking, Sphinx is definately a nice game to look at.
Sound: 8
Sphinx's sound is equally fitting for the game. The music is surprisingly well done, with heavy Middle Eastern vibes permeating most of the melodies. I especially enjoy the different songs from the Mummy. The song that played when he was on fire would get stuck in my head time and time again. The sound effects were good, though not nearly as good as the music. The Mummy's various vocalizations were the highlight for me, though none of the effects were really all that bad. One thing to note, however, is that there is no recorded dialogue for the game, meaning the story is forwards through text accompanied with random sound clips to fit the character. Recorded dialogue, especially if it was done well, would have pushed Sphinx to a higher level, I think. As it is, the sound is still well done, however.
Value: 7
Sphinx's main quest clocks in at around 10-15 hours, depending on your pacing. Once it's over, it's over sadly, unless you want to go back and collect all the enemies. There are some extra side quests and minigames to keep you occupied, however. Also, don't be surprised if you find yourself playing through a second time later on. It's a fun game, and definately a good prescription in you need more platformer. Plus, at it's sub-$20 price range, it's a steal.
Verdict:
Sphinx and the Cursed Mummy is one of the better action-adventure titles out for the Gamecube right now. No, it's not quite up to the level of Wind Waker, but it's nonetheless an excellent game. If you like Zelda, Star Fox Adventures, platformers, or just want a good single player game, you really should give Sphinx a spin. It's an excellent game that doesn't cost a pharoah's ransom.