Astro Boy - Omega Factor is one of those GBA gems that somehow blends shooting, platforming, and brawling without feeling messy. You start off punching robots and dodging lasers like a typical side-scroller, but then it throws these weird curveballs—suddenly you're flying through space or fighting alongside characters from Tezuka's other works. The first time I ran into Black Jack or Kimba, I actually grinned.

What’s cool is how it weaves Astro’s upgrades into the story—you’ll boost his arm cannon or flight speed after certain fights, and it actually changes how you approach levels. Early on, I kept trying to brute-force through enemies until I realized dodging and countering works way better. The sprite work still holds up too, especially when the screen fills with chaos and Astro’s little blue jet boots leave trails behind him.

It’s short but packed with enough surprises to make replaying levels feel fresh.