Rare has left the big N for sweeter pastures. Thinking back before E3, we all thought that Conker would be the first Rare Xbox title, but alas they pull an original title out of their bag of tricks called Grabbed By The Ghoulies. Now that Ghoulies has hit store shelves, does Rare still have that magic, or is there a little struggle moving on to the new system? The answer falls somewhere in between, as Ghoulies has amazing visuals, presentation, an amusing soundtrack, and good game play, all things Rare are widely known for. The game's biggest flaw comes in the monotony the game falls into in the later stages. Still, the game does show promise and proof that the creative minds are still spinning rapidly at Rare.

You play as a young man named Cooper. You and your girlfriend Amber are traveling to town, when a storm hits. Amber notices a place for shelter up top a hill, but you think it looks way too creepy for a place of shelter. As you check your map for directions for the quickest way to town, the creatures of Ghoulhaven Hall take Amber captive for the pleasure of Baron Von Ghoul. He's the mastermind and owner of the home and he has set his mind on making Cooper's life a fright by unleashing his minions and tinkering with your sanity. Luckily for the Baron, but unlucky for Cooper, this doesn't take much doing. Let's just say that Cooper doesn't have nerves of steel. You enter the Hall and are met by a few imps looking to do some damage. Thankfully, the Butler of the Hall, Crivens has graciously offered to help you by spouting off hints to defeat the monsters. He's too much of a coward obviously to get his suit dirty, but any help is good help I guess. This begins your journey into the Hall trying to find Amber and getting out of Ghoulhaven Hall.

One thing you'll notice as soon as you boot up Ghoulies is the amazing style in the visuals and presentation. The game has an eerie sense of humor and plays out like a comic book. It actually reminds the Boogeyman of the Creepshow films when the story unfolds in a series of comic book panels. This effect was very impressive and adds to the unique freshness Ghoulies brings. The graphics themselves are impressive as well, sporting the, now standard, cel-shaded variety we've come to know in cartoon environments. Let me just say that this technology is getting better and more slick with each game that uses it. It dang near looks animated, while not quite the break through that the Zelda: The Windwaker had, but still impressive nonetheless. The environments have that creepy feel to them in every room you visit, although it's more Disney-style creepy. Impressively most things in the room can be destroyed or used as weapons to thwart off baddies. Everything from pillows on sofas, to vases and chairs can be smashed into bits. Things like chairs and cue sticks can be picked up as weapons, but they do have a durability factor and will break for good after multiple uses. There are also some permanent weapons to be had later in the game, such as a candle and a super soaker. These can be used as often as you like, and are critical to each level you acquire them in. Cooper is very well animated; not only in his expressions, but also in the variety of moves and attacks he performs. Even the Ghoulies are very stylish and creative. Whether it's the little imps, skeletons, mummies, or more impressive enemies you meet later in the game, there was no lack of polish in the design of any of the Ghoulies you encounter. It is worth mentioning that the camera is also first-rate, and when needed can be adjusted using the L and R triggers. Overall Ghoulies is one great looking title from beginning to end.

The sounds in Ghoulies also keep you in the feel of the game with its animated scary soundtrack. These tunes keep the mood dim and will liven up when time of action occurs. The score is very limited and on longer levels you'll hear the same song repeat. The sound effects are done exceptionally well too, with many of the objects that are used and destroyed sounding distinctly like they should. Voices on the other hand are good, but there is no real voice acting to be heard. The story moves along by a few grunts and noises from each character, but no lines are said by any of them. With such a great job of humorous voices in Conker, one has to wonder about this choice.

Grabbed By The Ghoulies is less like a platformer than it is a stylish beat-'em-up. You roam from room to room beating up many Ghoulies that hold either the key to the next room, or must be defeated to open the door. There are a few puzzles here and there, but nothing that will really put your noodle to work. The game is actually rather simple, with the A.I. not putting up much of a fight in most circumstances. Even defeating a room swarmed with enemies can be accomplished with relative ease. The control scheme reminds me of another scary game... but this game was scary bad... Blade 2. "A" will pick up your weapons, "B" discards them, and your Right Analog stick provides the attacking. Unlike Blade 2, this is done more effectively and more precisely. It also helps you kick some major Ghoulies booty in a crowded room. Just aim your stick towards a foe, and it's R.I.P. once again for the undead. The lack of a jump button seems awkward for a bit, but there is really never a need for one of course, but it's just weird for one not to be included. Ghoulies all in all plays great, but seems to simplistic in the end. A Great start for rookies, but a breeze for gamers.

Ghoulies has a very linear storyline, so exploration is very limited. This really hurts the game's replay value, as one you conquer the game, there isn't much to go back for. There are books scattered around the Hall, collecting them opens up more features and goodies for you to use, but the bonuses are a little weak for the effort. You can unlock about 20 mini games, but they too are nothing to scream about. Even though the game is simple, it's not exactly short. There are over 100 levels and 50 rooms to keep you busy for a while. The story is intriguing enough to keep boredom from setting in, and there are enough twists and surprises that you just won't see coming. Unfortunately while a very good game, Ghoulies is only a one time through affair.

All in all Rare's first is a pleasant surprise that lacks only in focus. The levels and design, while brilliant, are hampered by repeating the same tasks over and over and over again. It's a beat-'em-up through and through, but will more flavor and creativity than most. It's definitely a game that shouldn't be missed out on, but unfortunately it may be just a rental for most.