Blaster Master - Enemy Below (USA, Europe) (GBC)

Blaster Master - Enemy Below for the Game Boy Color is a unique action-adventure game that seamlessly blends two distinct gameplay styles. Players control Jason and his versatile combat vehicle, Sophia III, as they explore a vast underground world overrun by mutated creatures.

The majority of the game involves piloting Sophia III in a side-scrolling perspective. The tank boasts agile movement, jumping capabilities, and various weapon types. Players must upgrade Sophia by collecting power-ups scattered throughout the areas, granting the tank new abilities such as stronger shots, higher jumps, or underwater traversal. Levels are designed with numerous obstacles, enemies, and minor puzzles to solve.

When Jason exits Sophia, the perspective shifts to a top-down view. In these sections, Jason navigates on foot to explore smaller caves, enemy bases, or hidden rooms that Sophia cannot access. Jason is equipped with a gun and can upgrade his weapon by collecting power icons. However, Jason is much more vulnerable on foot, requiring players to proceed with caution.

The primary objective is to defeat "Major Blasters" – colossal boss creatures at the end of each area – to unlock new abilities for Sophia and delve deeper into the subterranean world. The game features a non-linear structure, allowing players to explore areas in various sequences, often requiring backtracking to previously visited locations with new abilities to access formerly blocked paths. A map system helps players navigate this complex labyrinth.

The gameplay of Blaster Master - Enemy Below demands a combination of driving skills, shooting prowess, and puzzle-solving. Fluidly switching between the two gameplay modes is key to overcoming the challenges. The game's graphics and sound are well-optimized for the GBC system, delivering an engaging experience for fans of the genre.