Drill Dozer is a nifty little platformer by Game Freak for the GBA that feels more like a Treasure-developed game in how it is built around one major gameplay mechanic. In this case, you run and jump around in your drill dozer, which is basically a super mobile tank with a giant drill on the front. In each stage, you seek out gears, which give you increased drilling power, which allows you to drill through tougher blocks, propel yourself further, and take on tougher enemies. There are tunnels to spiral your way through like a screw, gel-like blocks to bounce off of, and locks to open by drilling away in holes.
The controls feel a little sluggish at first, but quickly become comfortable. The graphics are colorful, and the music is peppy if a little forgettable. It's a bit reminiscent of Mischief Makers in how you'll find yourself latching onto aerial blocks and hopping between them to make your way through levels, which are of a good length and well-designed.
The cartridge is oversized, as it contains a rumble feature to augment the drilling sensation, and it works pretty well. Overall, it's a fun, quirky little platformer, and a real treat for fans of games in Treasure's style, even if it's not from that house.
Played it?