Matchbox Caterpillar Construction Zone, released in 2000 for the Gameboy
Color is what I describe as a "Productivy-Sequence" game. Based on a
real-life work activity you must go through various tasks in a certain
sequence in order to complete the level.
There are 26 levels, which take anywhere from a minute to 12 minutes to
complete. In each level you control one of about 8 different pieces of
Caterpillar heavy machinary. Your perspective is top-down and, as is
typical for the Gameboy Color, the graphics are quite simple, but not
distracting from the action.
Your only guide through the game is an NPC foreman who will give you
hand signals indicating where you are supposed to go. Through those
simple gestures you do develop a sense of respect and admiration for his
leadership, and if you do your job he will often indicate his pleasure
though a series of non-verbal cues.
The sound is minimal, there are a couple of repetitive tunes that are
appropriate for the settings. The vehicle sounds don't vary, though
when you reverse there is a beep emitted at regular intervals.
The only downside to the game is that it is short -- just over 2 hours
of content. Also, there is no battery save, so for each level you are
given a 4 letter password.
It's not a game you should seek out and buy, but if you are trapped in a
room with a GBC and this game, you'll at least be able to spend two
hours occupied by a game that is entirely enjoyable.
