Xbox 360 Fanboy

Banjo Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts

Developer: Rare
Release Date: Q4 2008

Banjo Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts is the long awaited return of the classic N64 platform-jumping bear. Since its announcement in 2006 fans of the series have wondered how Rare would re-introduce Banjo to a new generation of gamers. While the announcement of its development was met with a roaring cheer, no one could have guessed the game would be wrapped in such an intricate vehicle design and build mechanic.

Comparable to the customization of Sony's Little Big Planet, Banjo Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts attempts to mesh a traditional platformer with a strong vehicle building undertone which adds story to the traditional collect-a-thon.

Although the mechanic seems to work work based on early hands-on impressions, could it captivate fans of the series or has the nearly 10 year wait for Banjo's return too little, too late?

22/05/08