Legend of Illusion (SMS, 1995/1998)

Graphics-8.5 Sound-7.5 Control-8 Challenge-6
Level Design-6.5 Frustration-7 Fun-6.5 Originality-5
Overall Score-7
+ Good jump control, nice cutscenes (though they're lacking animation this time), item inventory (extra health), some minor puzzles, decent variation, great use of color and good sprite animation, lift and throw blocks (or use as platforms), a couple of new ideas (Portal-like elements in the crystal cave, second to final boss), some nice level transitions
+/- Linear structure with more straightforward levels, unsmooth vertical scrolling
- No butt attack (replaced by a somewhat unsatisfying ball throw, can't look up/down, simple bosses, no hidden stars, dull shoot 'em up sequence, lame final boss
Notes:
9 stages long
Level Design-6.5 Frustration-7 Fun-6.5 Originality-5
Overall Score-7
+ Good jump control, nice cutscenes (though they're lacking animation this time), item inventory (extra health), some minor puzzles, decent variation, great use of color and good sprite animation, lift and throw blocks (or use as platforms), a couple of new ideas (Portal-like elements in the crystal cave, second to final boss), some nice level transitions
+/- Linear structure with more straightforward levels, unsmooth vertical scrolling
- No butt attack (replaced by a somewhat unsatisfying ball throw, can't look up/down, simple bosses, no hidden stars, dull shoot 'em up sequence, lame final boss
Notes:
9 stages long