Pitfall: The Mayan Adventure GBA

Play as Harry Jr., the son of legendary adventurer Pitfall Harry. After the father and son team penetrated the heart of the ancient Mayan Empire in search of the lost treasure of Vaxactun, Pitfall Harry was captured by the bad guy - Zakelua, Lord of Evil. As the game begins, it's up to young Harry to rescue his dad before it's too late - and it's not going to be easy.

This is an arcade style adventure that can be played at two levels of difficulty (even Normal is challenging). Harry starts off with his trusty sling. Until he locates stones for ammunition he can use the sling (Indiana Jones style) as a whip. Other useful weapons to be located are the Mayan Boomerang (which needs to be recovered after being thrown) and a powerful Exploding Stone of Pacal.

As well as the usual walking, running and jumping, Harry can crawl, climb ropes, swing on vines (he looks like a well dressed Tarzan), bungee jump, ride a runaway mine car and much more. Graphics are clear and thrilling as he climbs up to the jungle treetops and swings his way through. Various Mayan artifacts provide power-ups that help Harry on his way - like the Chili Pepper that gives superhuman strength - and there are, of course, hidden treasures to be discovered.

Bosses to be defeated range from skeletons to hawks, gargoyles, wild boars and snakes, in various locations - jungle, waterfall, mines, a lost city and a temple. It's a hard game, so read the Strategy Tips in the Survival Guide. My sons found it challenging and did not get past the boss (a Jaguar) at the first level (they may need to resort to walkthroughs or cheat codes to explore the rest of the levels).

I recommend Pitfall: The Mayan Adventure for older kids (12 and up) who are fast on their fingers, and enjoy arcade games, first person adventure and exploration. Those that like a tough challenge will have fun with this one, as they swing on vines like Tarzan, and snap their sling like Indiana to fend off attacking monkeys. They should try not to trip into the tarpits and watch out for jumping crocodiles!