Tech Test Drive: G-Force (PS3, Xbox 360)

"G-Force" is an action title featuring a unique team of specially trained guinea pigs that use high-tech gadgets to complete dangerous missions for the government.

This game puts players in control of Darwin, the guinea pig leader of the covert intelligence squad, and a housefly surveillance sidekick named Mooch. They team up with the other G-Force agents and use their gadgets, stealth mastery and pint-size teamwork to save the world from the malevolent technology of an evil genius.

This game uses innovative gameplay with a unique sense of scale. Players get a sense of what it's like to be just a few inches tall. And there is puzzle-solving that requires players to manipulate environments and enemies, including evil robotic waffle irons and other evil household appliances.

The game is funny and complements the movie on which it is based. For example, there are driving sequences in which you pilot an armed hamster-ball. The gadgets are clever and the game looks great.

You often must manipulate multiple buttons at once, though, which requires dexterity with your fingers. It is a kids' game that some younger players may find too much of a challenge. But those with experience playing games like this will be delighted by the action,

One shortcoming is players control only Darwin and his sidekick, and they don't have the opportunity to play any of the other characters the movie is based on. That's a missed opportunity.

Also,

the game's 3-D technology, while heavily touted, doesn't work well. The game comes with red and blue glasses, but they wreck the colors, making it harder to play. Video games may be going 3-D, but they won't be successful with this kind of antiquated technology. Luckily, it's turned off by default.

Usually gamers avoid movie-licensed games because they so often are disappointing. But "G-Force" delivers a satisfying experience with engaging combat, crafty puzzles and rewarding exploration.