Previous Next

You remember it, don't you? Of course you do. The eponymous Paperboy is back, and this time he's about seven pixels high! Say what you like about this classic arcade convo, at least it makes pretences at having a plot.

Who came up with such a bizarre idea in the first place? In Paperboy you play the said news deliverer as he makes it through the week cycling up streets filled with radio-controlled cars, dastardly dogs, threatening thugs and stupid sunbathers. You must avoid these objects (that apparently are as hard as iron) and throw your papers at the correct houses before trying your chances on the optional assault course conveniently placed at the end of each street.

In addition to these wonders of gameplay you can hit passers by and perhaps even catch the odd thief or two. The Game Boy edition does not change this format one iota. The challenge of Paperboy has always been a trifle vague, but on the Game Boy Color this is even more true. Even on the easiest street avoiding the multiplicity of hazards is made laughable by the tiny graphics, and the music is maddening. At least you can turn this off, though.

All in all, this edition of Paperboy maintains what little charm the original ever had, and if you were a fan of that, you're bound to want this pocket version, no matter how fiddly the gameplay.

Graphics 60%
Definitely showing their age.

Sound 40%
Really quite disappointing.

Playability 60%
A fun game in short bursts.

Lastability 80%
Lots of levels - but they're similar.

Overall 62%
One for nostalgia freaks only!