Robopon 2: Ring Version Game Boy Advance

Build and train an army of friendly robot companions in Robopon 2: Ring Version, one of a two-part sequel to the original Robopon, popularized by games such as Pokémon and Digimon. In this RPG adventure you collect, build, and develop an entourage of robots that help you by fighting battles using special abilities. Three times larger than the original, with more than 180 Robopon to collect, Robopon 2: Ring Version includes many new characters to meet and powers to exploit. Ring Version differs from its companion title, Robopon 2: Cross Version, by allowing a quicker play-through with less emphasis on battles, more emphasis on the story line, and fewer Boot-type Robopon.

Cody, the hero (whose name can be changed), is en route to a new tournament when he's shipwrecked on Majiko Island and discovers a conspiracy of destruction. As in Pokémon games, the object of play is to collect creatures to fight other denizens. Battles are initiated when opponents challenge you, or an enemy is encountered in a dungeon. Up to four Robopon can take part in the turn-based battles, with victory yielding experience, money, and the occasional battery.

Combining and sparking batteries can create three types of Robopons: Arm, Move, and Boot. Arm creatures have high attack power, Move-types are very agile and can be used for transportation, while Boots are slow with high offensive and defensive capabilities. Equipping parts found throughout the adventure affects attack and defense powers, while installing software upgrades let the robot pets learn new techniques. Boots, though, can't use the upgrades and must develop by leveling up.

Robopon colors can be customized, and certain creatures are unique to each title at the start of the game, but eventually all are collectable. Up to ten spirit-helpers may crop up as gameplay advances, with three secret spirit-types unique to each version. Multiplayer elements include being able to battle an opponent through a link cable for Robopon supremacy, and using Spark Mode to combine batteries to create rare Robopons, of which each player gets a copy.

Four multiplayer mini-games, Jumper, Puncher, Itemaze, and Battler, allow players to compete using two Game Boy Advance systems and two game packs with a link cable. Up to four systems and three cables are needed for Panel Attack 27 and 4Tune Battle. ~ Gavin Frankle, All Game Guide