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{{Use dmy dates|date=March 2016}} {{Use mdy dates|date=May 2021}}
{{For|the 2001 Game Boy Advance game|Lego Bionicle: Quest for the Toa}} {{For|the 2001 Game Boy Advance game|Lego Bionicle: Quest for the Toa}}
{{Infobox video game {{Infobox video game
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| developer = {{Unbulleted list|]|]|] {{small|(GBA)}}}} | developer = {{Unbulleted list|]|]|] {{small|(GBA)}}}}
| publisher = {{Unbulleted list|]|]|] {{small|(GBA)}}|]| {{small|(OS X)}}}} | publisher = {{Unbulleted list|]|]|] {{small|(GBA)}}|]| {{small|(OS X)}}}}
| platforms = ], ], ], ], ], ] | platforms = ], ], ], ], ], ]
| released = {{ubl|September 10, 2003 (GBA)|October 20, 2003 (NGC, PS2, XBOX)|October 28, 2003 (PC)|September 15, 2004 (OS X)}}
| released = {{Collapsible list
| genre = ]
| title = 1 September 2003
| titlestyle = font-weight:normal;background:transparent;text-align:left;
| '''GameCube'''
| {{Video game release|NA|1 September 2003|EU|31 October 2003}}
| '''Game Boy Advance'''
| {{Video game release|NA|10 September 2003|EU|3 October 2003}}
| '''PlayStation 2'''
| {{Video game release|EU|10 October 2003|NA|20 October 2003}}
| '''Xbox'''
| {{Video game release|EU|17 October 2003|NA|20 October 2003}}
| '''Microsoft Windows'''
| {{Video game release|NA|31 October 2003|EU|31 October 2003}}
| '''OS X'''
| {{Video game release|EU|15 January 2005|NA|15 January 2005}}
}}
| genre = ]
| modes = ] | modes = ]
}} }}
'''''Bionicle''''' (also known as '''''Bionicle: The Game''''') is an ] ] released in 2003. The game is based on parts of the movie '']'' and other parts of the Bionicle storyline. Initially, the game was supposed to make each ], Toa Nuva, and the Toa of Light playable, but due to deadlines, much of the game was dropped. However, all of the characters are playable in the Game Boy Advance version. The ] version of the game was released by ].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.feralinteractive.com/en/game/bionicle |title=Feral Interactive: Bionicle}}</ref> '''''Bionicle''''' (also known as '''''Bionicle: The Game''''') is a 2003 ] ]. The game was developed by ] and co-published by ] and ] for the ], ], ], and personal computers; a port was also developed for the ]. In the home console version, the player controls the Toa, elementally-powered warriors, as they traverse through levels; some levels are 3D platformers, while others mainly feature on-rails vehicle segments. The game's story, which takes creative liberties with the official Bionicle story, follows the Toa as they defend the island of Mata Nui from the return of the evil Makuta and his minions.


''Bionicle'' received mixed to negative reviews from critics, who lambasted its extremely short length; one noted the game can completed faster than the runtime of '']''. Its camera angles were also criticized, although some gameplay elements like the elemental absorption mechanic were viewed more favorably. ''Bionicle'' sold poorly upon its release, resulting in Argonaut not receiving any licensing royalties; the company would dissolve in August 2006. A tech demo for a sequel, tentatively titled ''Bionicle: City of Legends'', was leaked online in 2012.
== Story ==
The game follows the 2001-2003 storyline with only one obvious omission; the first part of the 2001 story, when the Toa first face Makuta, was cut out. However, many parts of the story were "reduced." The game begins when the Bohrok are attacking Mata Nui, and spends two levels depicting ] and Kopaka's battles with them. After that, the game moves on to Gali Nuva's level, in which the Bohrok-Kal are introduced, and all defeated at once by Gali. In the storyline, Tahu Nuva uses the Kanohi Vahi, ] of ], to allow himself and the other five Toa to defeat them. Pohatu's level then depicts a "midpoint" between storylines; Pohatu is delivering the news that the Rahkshi have ]ned to Onua. Onua then defeats Lerahk in his level by dropping a hub ] on Lerahk, Lewa fights Panrahk in his level, and Tahu ]-] after Kurahk, who has made off with the ] of ]. When he catches Kurahk, the Mask of Light fuses itself to Takua, who becomes Takanuva (Takua Nuva in the game) and defeats Makuta, ] of ]s, in the game's final level. He transforms into Takutanuva and opens the ] and awakes Mata Nui. The Turaga and Matoran only make a couple appearances, none of which are very significant to the plot.


== Gameplay == ==Gameplay and plot==
''Bionicle'' is a ] ].<ref name="GI" /> The game's levels vary between normal platforming levels and levels that use mechanics like snowboarding or lava surfing.<ref name="Xbox Nation review" /> Lightstones are scattered throughout each level, and collecting them unlocks bonus content.<ref name="GameZone" /> Captive Matoran characters are located in some levels, and finding them is necessary to solve puzzles.<ref name="GameSpot review" /> Each Toa character can attack using elemental energy; the attacks automatically target enemies. By timing attacks correctly, the player can launch a multi-bolt attack.<ref name="Manual">{{cite AV media|title=Bionicle|medium=Manual|publisher=], ]}}</ref> Elemental energy depletes after each use. In order to replenish their supply, the player can shield and absorb attacks from enemies, or draw in energy directly from the environment. When drawing from the environment, the player is vulnerable to attack.<ref name="IGN reviews" /> Elemental energy can also be resupplied by finding Kanohi of elemental energy.<ref name="Manual" />
Basic controls include using shields and light elemental blasts to defeat enemies and open canisters. Overall, there are 8 levels in the game including the boss battle against Makuta.

''Bionicle'' is set on the fictional island of Mata Nui, which is divided into six ] regions: the aquatic region of Ga-Wahi, the jungle region of Le-Wahi, the icy and mountainous region of Ko-Wahi, the subterranean region of Onu-Wahi, the desert region of Po-Wahi, and the volcanic region of Ta-Wahi. Each of the regions contains a village, known as a koro, and each koro is led by a Turaga, the village elder. A great temple, Kini-Nui, lies near the center of the island.<ref name="Guide">{{cite book|last=Farshtey|first=Greg|date=April 27, 2010|title=Makuta's Guide to the Universe|publisher=]|pages=18–19|isbn=1597072036}}</ref> Each village is protected by a Toa, a warrior with elemental powers. According to Bionicle story team member ], the game took creative liberties with the official Bionicle story,<ref>{{cite web |title=Official Greg Discussion |url=https://greg.thegreatarchives.com/2003-2008/page5#post185 |website=The Great Archives |access-date=May 17, 2021 |page=5}}</ref> although some aspects, like the Kanohi of elemental energy, were later adopted into the official lore.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Farshtey |first1=Greg |title=Official Greg Quotes |url=https://greg.thegreatarchives.com/2010-2011/page2#post43 |website=The Great Archives |access-date=May 24, 2021 |date=October 27, 2010}}</ref> All six Toa are playable in the game - some as normal Toa, and others as upgraded Toa Nuva - as well as the new seventh Toa, Takanua, the Toa of light.<ref name="Manual" /> The story follows the Toa as they defend Mata Nui against the return of Makuta and his minions, and culminates with battle between Takanuva and Makuta.

== Development and release ==
In an interview with Bionicle fan site BZPower, the game's producers said that development on the home console version of ''Bionicle'' began in October 2001. ] and ] were brought onboard in late 2001 and early 2002, respectively. The Game Boy Advance version was developed by a separate team, ], and published by ]; it began development in 2003.<ref name="BZPower interview">{{cite web |author1=Rich |title=BZP Exclusive Interview With the Producers of Bionicle: The Game |url=http://www.bzpower.info/story.php?ID=1441 |website=BZPower |access-date=May 25, 2021 |date=October 5, 2003}}</ref> Because the developers could not get access to the voice actors for '']'', they instead chose "sound-alike" actors for the game's cutscenes.<ref name="BZPower interview" /> Sarah Marshall, the marketing manager of ''Bionicle'', said that they did not want the game to feature "hack and slash" combat, because Bionicle is about being a "bit smarter than that", so the decision was made to rely entirely on elementally-powered combat instead.<ref name="GameSpot interview">{{cite web |title=Gamespot Interview |url=https://biomediaproject.com/bmp/videos/game-videos/ |website=] |publisher=BioMediaProject |access-date=May 25, 2021}}</ref>

The game was official announced on March 2, 2003. A total of 13 playable Toa (all six Toa and Toa Nuva, as well as Takanuva) were said to be available in the game.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Parker |first1=Sam |title=Lego Bionicle game announced |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/lego-bionicle-game-announced/1100-6026177/ |website=] |access-date=May 25, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=EA And Lego Announce Bionicle - IGN |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2003/05/02/ea-and-lego-announce-bionicle |website=] |access-date=May 25, 2021 |language=en |date=May 2, 2003}}</ref> According to Brad Schumaker of '']'', players would help the Toa "evolve" into the Toa Nuva and discover the "seventh and final Toa".<ref>{{cite web |last1=Shoemaker |first1=Brad |title=Bionicle E3 2003 Preshow Report |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/bionicle-e3-2003-preshow-report/1100-6027001/ |website=] |date=May 12, 2003}}</ref> The game was previewed at ];<ref>{{cite web |title=EA Goes Big At E3 - Press Release |url=https://www.nintendoworldreport.com/pr/8632/ea-goes-big-at-e3 |website=Nintendo World Report |access-date=May 25, 2021 |date=May 8, 2003}}</ref> early trailers, including the E3 trailer, showcased a level featuring Lewa that was ultimately absent from the game.<ref>{{cite web |title=E3 Press Kit/Style Guide Trailer |url=https://biomediaproject.com/bmp/videos/game-videos/ |publisher=BioMediaProject |access-date=May 25, 2021}}</ref> ''Bionicle'' was showcased in July 2003 at EA's "Camp EA" event;<ref>{{cite web |title=Camp EA |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2003/07/10/camp-ea |website=] |access-date=May 25, 2021 |language=en |date=July 9, 2003}}</ref> '']'' praised this version's gameplay as "fast and furious" and said that "The level of detail and care put into Bionicle was really surprising, and it gives the impression that LEGO Interactive is committed to delivering a quality kid friendly title". They also noted that each level required collecting a certain number of lightstones to complete and cited the game as being an "eight to ten hour adventure".<ref>{{cite web |title=LEGOs in Action |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2003/07/11/legos-in-action |website=] |access-date=May 25, 2021 |language=en |date=July 10, 2003}}</ref>

The Game Boy Advance version of ''Bionicle'' was released on September 10, 2003.<ref>{{cite web |title=Bionicle |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/game-boy-advance/bionicle |website=] |access-date=May 25, 2021}}</ref> The home console version of ''Bionicle'' was released on October 20, 2003. A PC release was slated for October 28, featuring additional lighting effects the console versions did not have.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Thorsen |first1=Tor |title=Bionicle store-bound |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/bionicle-store-bound/1100-6077085/ |website=] |access-date=May 25, 2021 |date=October 20, 2003}}</ref> A port for ], developed by ], was announced by ] at ] in January 2004<ref>{{cite web |last1=Cohen |first1=Peter |title=Macworld: Feral to publish Bionicle for Mac |url=https://www.macworld.com/article/169389/feral-10.html |website=] |access-date=May 25, 2021 |date=January 7, 2004}}</ref> and released on September 15, 2004.<ref>{{cite web |title=Amazon.com: Bionicle: The Game - Mac: Video Games |url=https://www.amazon.com/Bionicle-Game-Mac/dp/B0000ZUA8W?th=1 |website=]}}</ref>


== Reception == == Reception ==
=== Critical ===
{{Expand section|date=June 2008}}
{{Video game reviews {{Video game reviews
| GR = NGC: 45%<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamerankings.com/gamecube/914806-bionicle/index.html |title=Bionicle for GameCube |publisher=] |access-date=15 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191209012314/https://www.gamerankings.com/gamecube/914806-bionicle/index.html |archive-date=9 December 2019 |url-status=dead}}</ref><br />PS2: 51%<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gamerankings.com/ps2/914804-bionicle/index.html |title=Bionicle for PlayStation 2 |publisher=] |access-date=15 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191209012302/https://www.gamerankings.com/ps2/914804-bionicle/index.html |archive-date=9 December 2019 |url-status=dead}}</ref><br />XBOX: 41%<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gamerankings.com/xbox/914805-bionicle/index.html |title=Bionicle for Xbox |publisher=] |access-date=15 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191209012308/https://www.gamerankings.com/xbox/914805-bionicle/index.html |archive-date=9 December 2019 |url-status=dead}}</ref><br />PC: 49%<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gamerankings.com/pc/914803-bionicle/index.html |title=Bionicle for PC |publisher=] |access-date=15 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191209012257/https://www.gamerankings.com/pc/914803-bionicle/index.html |archive-date=9 December 2019 |url-status=dead}}</ref> | GR = NGC: 45%<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamerankings.com/gamecube/914806-bionicle/index.html |title=Bionicle for GameCube |publisher=] |access-date=15 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191209012314/https://www.gamerankings.com/gamecube/914806-bionicle/index.html |archive-date=9 December 2019 |url-status=dead}}</ref><br />PC: 49%<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gamerankings.com/pc/914803-bionicle/index.html |title=Bionicle for PC |publisher=] |access-date=15 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191209012257/https://www.gamerankings.com/pc/914803-bionicle/index.html |archive-date=9 December 2019 |url-status=dead}}</ref><br />PS2: 51%<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gamerankings.com/ps2/914804-bionicle/index.html |title=Bionicle for PlayStation 2 |publisher=] |access-date=15 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191209012302/https://www.gamerankings.com/ps2/914804-bionicle/index.html |archive-date=9 December 2019 |url-status=dead}}</ref><br />XBOX: 41%<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gamerankings.com/xbox/914805-bionicle/index.html |title=Bionicle for Xbox |publisher=] |access-date=15 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191209012308/https://www.gamerankings.com/xbox/914805-bionicle/index.html |archive-date=9 December 2019 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
| MC = NGC: 47/100<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/gamecube/bionicle |title=Bionicle for GameCube Reviews |publisher=] |access-date=15 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080913103924/http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/cube/bionicle |archive-date=13 September 2008 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />PS2: 51/100<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-2/bionicle |title=Bionicle for PlayStation 2 Reviews |publisher=] |access-date=15 May 2020}}</ref><br />XBOX: 49/100<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/xbox/bionicle |title=Bionicle for Xbox Reviews |publisher=] |access-date=15 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080913101834/http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/xbx/bionicle |archive-date=13 September 2008 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />PC: 52/100<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/pc/bionicle |title=Bionicle for PC Reviews |publisher=] |access-date=15 May 2020}}</ref> | MC = NGC: 47/100<ref name="GCN">{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/gamecube/bionicle |title=Bionicle for GameCube Reviews |publisher=] |access-date=15 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080913103924/http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/cube/bionicle |archive-date=13 September 2008 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />PC: 52/100<ref name="PC">{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/pc/bionicle |title=Bionicle for PC Reviews |publisher=] |access-date=15 May 2020}}</ref><br />PS2: 51/100<ref name="PS2 Metacritic">{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-2/bionicle |title=Bionicle for PlayStation 2 Reviews |publisher=] |access-date=15 May 2020}}</ref><br />XBOX: 49/100<ref name="Xbox">{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/xbox/bionicle |title=Bionicle for Xbox Reviews |publisher=] |access-date=15 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080913101834/http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/xbx/bionicle |archive-date=13 September 2008 |url-status=live}}</ref>
| rev1 = '']''
| rev1Score = NGC: 4.4/10<ref name="Cube review">{{cite news |last1=Wilkinson |first1=Byron |title=Stay on target! |url=https://archive.org/details/cube-25/page/n83/mode/2up |access-date=May 23, 2021 |work=] |issue=25 |publisher=] |page=84}}</ref>
| GSpot = 4.7/10<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/bionicle-review/1900-6085710/ |title=PlayStation 2 review |publisher=GameSpot}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/bionicle-review/1900-6085710/ |title=GameCube review |publisher=GameSpot}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/bionicle-review/1900-6085710/ |title=Xbox review |publisher=GameSpot}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/bionicle-review/1900-6085710/ |title=Windows review |publisher=GameSpot}}</ref>
| rev2 = '']''
| IGN = 3.8/10<ref>{{cite web|title=PlayStation 2 review |publisher=IGN |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2003/11/11/bionicle-the-game}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=GameCube review |publisher=IGN |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2003/11/10/bionicle}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Xbox review |publisher=IGN |url=http://xbox.ign.com/articles/502/502651p1.html}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Windows review |publisher=IGN |url=http://pc.ign.com/articles/497/497303p1.html}}</ref>
| rev2Score = NGC: 6.0/10<ref name="GI">{{cite web |last1=Biessener |first1=Adam |title=Game Informer Online |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/NR/exeres/C163CAE0-1EC8-42B8-A152-FFBA2E94689C.htm |website=] |access-date=May 20, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060114002617/https://www.gameinformer.com/NR/exeres/C163CAE0-1EC8-42B8-A152-FFBA2E94689C.htm |archive-date=January 14, 2006 |date=January 2004 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
| rev3 = '']''
| rev3Score = NGC/PC/PS2/XBOX: 4.7/10<ref>{{cite web |title=Bionicle Reviews |url=https://www.gamespot.com/games/bionicle/reviews/ |website=] |access-date=May 20, 2021 |language=en}}</ref>
| rev4 = ''GameZone''
| rev4Score = PS2: 7.6/10<ref name="GameZone">{{cite web |title=Bionicle |url=http://ps2.gamezone.com/gzreviews/r22112.htm |website=GameZone |access-date=May 20, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20031106021426/http://ps2.gamezone.com/gzreviews/r22112.htm |archive-date=November 6, 2003 |date=November 4, 2003 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
| rev5 = '']''
| rev5Score = NGC/PS2/XBOX: 3.8/10<ref name="IGN reviews">{{cite web |title=Bionicle: The Game Reviews |url=https://www.ign.com/games/bionicle-the-game/reviews |website=] |access-date=May 20, 2021}}</ref></br>PC: 3.5/10<ref name="IGN reviews" />
| rev6 = '']''
| rev6Score = XBOX: 5.5/10<ref name="OXM Review">{{cite news |last1=O'Connor |first1=Frank |title=Retro gaming, regardless of what you ordered |url=https://archive.org/details/OXM_2004_01-web/page/n23/mode/2up |access-date=May 22, 2021 |work=] |issue=27 |date=January 2004 |page=62}}</ref>
| rev7 = '']''
| rev7Score = XBOX: 6/10<ref name="Xbox Nation review">{{cite news |last1=Theobald |first1=Paul |title=XRated Smart Reviews |url=https://archive.org/details/XboxNation11Jan2004/page/n99/mode/2up |access-date=May 23, 2021 |work=] |agency=Ziff Davis |issue=11 |date=January 2004 |page=100}}</ref>
}} }}


According to review aggregator ], the PC and PS2 versions of ''Bionicle'' received "mixed to average" reviews from critics<ref name="GCN" /><ref name="PS2 Metacritic" /> while the GameCube and Xbox versions received "generally unfavorable reviews".<ref name="GCN" /><ref name="Xbox" /> The game's extremely short length was sharply criticized,<ref name="GameZone" /><ref name="GameSpot review" /><ref name="IGN reviews" /><ref name="OXM Review" /> as were its camera controls.<ref name="GameSpot review" /><ref name="IGN reviews" /><ref name="OXM Review" /> The elemental absorption mechanic was received favorably,<ref name="IGN reviews" /><ref name="GameSpot review" /><ref name="OXM Review" /><ref name="Xbox Nation review" /> although some felt it was ultimately underutilized.<ref name="IGN reviews" /><ref name="GameSpot review" /> Critics felt the game might be appropriate for Bionicle fans<ref name="GameZone" /><ref name="GI" /><ref name="GameSpot review" /> or young gamers.<ref name="GameSpot review" /><ref name="GameZone" />
''Bionicle'' received mixed reviews from critics. It was given a 3.8 out of ten by '']'', and a 6.5 by '']''. It was criticized for repetitive and simplistic gameplay, story, poor visuals, short length and complete lack of innovation. Game Informer stated that it would only be appropriate for "]-obsessed 8-year-olds".

'']'' reviewer Mary Jane Irwin said that ''Bionicle'' could "hardly be called a game". She sharply criticized the "horrid" camera system, "hodgepodge" of gameplay styles, "thin" storyline, and short length.<ref name="IGN review">{{cite web |last1=Irwin |first1=Mary Jane |title=Bionicle: The Game |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2003/11/11/bionicle-the-game |website=] |access-date=May 20, 2021 |language=en |date=November 10, 2003}}</ref> Brett Todd of '']'' said that "all the wonder of the Bionicle universe has been bled dry by a vapid design and an atrocious camera system" and questioned whether even kids could remain engaged throughout the game's short length; he noted the game could be completed in less time than it takes to watch ''Bionicle: Mask of Light''.<ref name="GameSpot review">{{cite web |last1=Todd |first1=Brett |title=Bionicle Review |url= https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/bionicle-review/1900-6085707/ |website=] |access-date=May 20, 2021 |date=December 16, 2003}}</ref>

Byron Wilkinson of '']'' claimed that readers would "have more fun buying a bucket of Lego and building a toilet" than they would playing ''Bionicle'' and called it a "sad" indictment of the video game industry's treatment of licensed properties.<ref name="Cube review" /> Frank O'Connor of '']'' unfavorably compared ''Bionicle'' to a PlayStation title, citing the "blocky textures", "primitive camera angles", and "garish color palette". He also criticized the auto-target ability and felt the game would be only appropriate for only "serious Bionicle fans", as it "follows the bizarrely melodramatic plot to a tee".<ref name="OXM Review" />

Some critics viewed ''Bionicle'' more favorably. Adam Biessener of '']'' called it "quite solid" and said it lacked any "glaring problems". However, he felt it was too generic to be a "competitive effort" and would be safe to skip for another other than "kids with "an affection for Legos that borders on obsession".<ref name="GI" /> '']'' reviewer Paul Theobald felt the game had "plenty of promise" and praised the game energy absorption mechanic as a "welcome element of complexity", but criticized its "extremely short length" and generic level design.<ref name="Xbox Nation review" /> While ''GameZone'' reviewer The Whiz was critical of the short length and camera, he praised ''Bionicle'' for its mission variety, boss battles, and environments as well as its difficulty and felt it would appeal to "both beginners and veterans to the platformer series".<ref name="GameZone" />

=== Commercial ===
''Bionicle'' (along with Argonaut's other Christmas titles '']'' and '']'') reportedly sold poorly and failed to generate any licensing royalties for the studio.<ref name="Argonaut losses mount as sales of Christmas releases disappoint">{{cite web |last1=Fahey |first1=Rob |title=Argonaut losses mount as sales of Christmas releases disappoint |url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/argonaut-losses-mount-as-sales-of-christmas-releases-disappoint |website=GamesIndustry.biz |access-date=May 23, 2021 |language=en |date=March 11, 2004}}</ref> The company was placed into ] in October 2004, and all of its employees were laid off in November 2004.<ref>{{cite web|last=Jenkins|first=David|date=November 3, 2004|title=Remaining Argonaut Development Staff Laid Off|url=https://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/95463/Remaining_Argonaut_Development_Staff_Laid_Off.php|access-date=February 1, 2018|website=]}}</ref> Argonaut Games was officially dissolved in August 2006.<ref>{{cite web |title=Negligible value claims and agreements |url=https://www.gov.uk/guidance/negligible-value-agreements |website=] |access-date=May 23, 2021 |language=en |date=June 25, 2014}}</ref> Footage of a tech demo for a planned sequel to ''Bionicle'', titled ''Bionicle: City of Legends'', was leaked online in 2012,<ref>{{cite web |author1=PtoPOnline |title=Bionicle 2 : City of Legends - Unreleased Xbox Game |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v6R_mc2oreU |publisher=]}}</ref> and builds of the demo dating from December 2003 to January 2004 were later leaked to the BioMediaProject, a fan website that preserves Bionicle-related content.<ref>{{cite web |title=City of Legends Movement Demo |url=http://biomediaproject.com/bmp/play/retail-games/city-of-legends-movement-demo/ |website=BioMediaProject |access-date=May 23, 2021}}</ref>


== References == == References ==
{{Reflist}} {{Reflist}}

== External links==
*

⚫ {{Portal bar|Video games}}


{{Argonaut Games}} {{Argonaut Games}}
⚫ {{Lego video games}}
{{Bionicle}} {{Bionicle}}
{{Lego video games}}


] ]

Revision as of 18:29, 25 May 2021

For the 2001 Game Boy Advance game, see Lego Bionicle: Quest for the Toa. 2003 video game
Bionicle
North American cover art for PlayStation 2
Developer(s)
Publisher(s)
Platform(s)GameCube, Game Boy Advance, Mac OS X, PlayStation 2, Xbox, Microsoft Windows
Release
  • September 10, 2003 (GBA)
  • October 20, 2003 (NGC, PS2, XBOX)
  • October 28, 2003 (PC)
  • September 15, 2004 (OS X)
Genre(s)platformer
Mode(s)Single-player

Bionicle (also known as Bionicle: The Game) is a 2003 platform video game. The game was developed by Argonaut Games and co-published by Electronic Arts and Lego Interactive for the Nintendo GameCube, PlayStation 2, Xbox, and personal computers; a port was also developed for the Game Boy Advance. In the home console version, the player controls the Toa, elementally-powered warriors, as they traverse through levels; some levels are 3D platformers, while others mainly feature on-rails vehicle segments. The game's story, which takes creative liberties with the official Bionicle story, follows the Toa as they defend the island of Mata Nui from the return of the evil Makuta and his minions.

Bionicle received mixed to negative reviews from critics, who lambasted its extremely short length; one noted the game can completed faster than the runtime of Bionicle: Mask of Light. Its camera angles were also criticized, although some gameplay elements like the elemental absorption mechanic were viewed more favorably. Bionicle sold poorly upon its release, resulting in Argonaut not receiving any licensing royalties; the company would dissolve in August 2006. A tech demo for a sequel, tentatively titled Bionicle: City of Legends, was leaked online in 2012.

Gameplay and plot

Bionicle is a 3D platform game. The game's levels vary between normal platforming levels and levels that use mechanics like snowboarding or lava surfing. Lightstones are scattered throughout each level, and collecting them unlocks bonus content. Captive Matoran characters are located in some levels, and finding them is necessary to solve puzzles. Each Toa character can attack using elemental energy; the attacks automatically target enemies. By timing attacks correctly, the player can launch a multi-bolt attack. Elemental energy depletes after each use. In order to replenish their supply, the player can shield and absorb attacks from enemies, or draw in energy directly from the environment. When drawing from the environment, the player is vulnerable to attack. Elemental energy can also be resupplied by finding Kanohi of elemental energy.

Bionicle is set on the fictional island of Mata Nui, which is divided into six elementally-themed regions: the aquatic region of Ga-Wahi, the jungle region of Le-Wahi, the icy and mountainous region of Ko-Wahi, the subterranean region of Onu-Wahi, the desert region of Po-Wahi, and the volcanic region of Ta-Wahi. Each of the regions contains a village, known as a koro, and each koro is led by a Turaga, the village elder. A great temple, Kini-Nui, lies near the center of the island. Each village is protected by a Toa, a warrior with elemental powers. According to Bionicle story team member Greg Farshtey, the game took creative liberties with the official Bionicle story, although some aspects, like the Kanohi of elemental energy, were later adopted into the official lore. All six Toa are playable in the game - some as normal Toa, and others as upgraded Toa Nuva - as well as the new seventh Toa, Takanua, the Toa of light. The story follows the Toa as they defend Mata Nui against the return of Makuta and his minions, and culminates with battle between Takanuva and Makuta.

Development and release

In an interview with Bionicle fan site BZPower, the game's producers said that development on the home console version of Bionicle began in October 2001. Argonaut Games and Electronic Arts were brought onboard in late 2001 and early 2002, respectively. The Game Boy Advance version was developed by a separate team, Möbius Entertainment, and published by THQ; it began development in 2003. Because the developers could not get access to the voice actors for Bionicle: Mask of Light, they instead chose "sound-alike" actors for the game's cutscenes. Sarah Marshall, the marketing manager of Bionicle, said that they did not want the game to feature "hack and slash" combat, because Bionicle is about being a "bit smarter than that", so the decision was made to rely entirely on elementally-powered combat instead.

The game was official announced on March 2, 2003. A total of 13 playable Toa (all six Toa and Toa Nuva, as well as Takanuva) were said to be available in the game. According to Brad Schumaker of GameSpot, players would help the Toa "evolve" into the Toa Nuva and discover the "seventh and final Toa". The game was previewed at E3 2003; early trailers, including the E3 trailer, showcased a level featuring Lewa that was ultimately absent from the game. Bionicle was showcased in July 2003 at EA's "Camp EA" event; IGN praised this version's gameplay as "fast and furious" and said that "The level of detail and care put into Bionicle was really surprising, and it gives the impression that LEGO Interactive is committed to delivering a quality kid friendly title". They also noted that each level required collecting a certain number of lightstones to complete and cited the game as being an "eight to ten hour adventure".

The Game Boy Advance version of Bionicle was released on September 10, 2003. The home console version of Bionicle was released on October 20, 2003. A PC release was slated for October 28, featuring additional lighting effects the console versions did not have. A port for Mac OS X, developed by Feral Interactive, was announced by Steve Jobs at Macworld in January 2004 and released on September 15, 2004.

Reception

Critical

Reception
Aggregate scores
AggregatorScore
GameRankingsNGC: 45%
PC: 49%
PS2: 51%
XBOX: 41%
MetacriticNGC: 47/100
PC: 52/100
PS2: 51/100
XBOX: 49/100
Review scores
PublicationScore
CubeNGC: 4.4/10
Game InformerNGC: 6.0/10
GameSpotNGC/PC/PS2/XBOX: 4.7/10
GameZonePS2: 7.6/10
IGNNGC/PS2/XBOX: 3.8/10
PC: 3.5/10
Official Xbox MagazineXBOX: 5.5/10
Xbox NationXBOX: 6/10

According to review aggregator Metacritic, the PC and PS2 versions of Bionicle received "mixed to average" reviews from critics while the GameCube and Xbox versions received "generally unfavorable reviews". The game's extremely short length was sharply criticized, as were its camera controls. The elemental absorption mechanic was received favorably, although some felt it was ultimately underutilized. Critics felt the game might be appropriate for Bionicle fans or young gamers.

IGN reviewer Mary Jane Irwin said that Bionicle could "hardly be called a game". She sharply criticized the "horrid" camera system, "hodgepodge" of gameplay styles, "thin" storyline, and short length. Brett Todd of GameSpot said that "all the wonder of the Bionicle universe has been bled dry by a vapid design and an atrocious camera system" and questioned whether even kids could remain engaged throughout the game's short length; he noted the game could be completed in less time than it takes to watch Bionicle: Mask of Light.

Byron Wilkinson of Cube claimed that readers would "have more fun buying a bucket of Lego and building a toilet" than they would playing Bionicle and called it a "sad" indictment of the video game industry's treatment of licensed properties. Frank O'Connor of Official Xbox Magazine unfavorably compared Bionicle to a PlayStation title, citing the "blocky textures", "primitive camera angles", and "garish color palette". He also criticized the auto-target ability and felt the game would be only appropriate for only "serious Bionicle fans", as it "follows the bizarrely melodramatic plot to a tee".

Some critics viewed Bionicle more favorably. Adam Biessener of Game Informer called it "quite solid" and said it lacked any "glaring problems". However, he felt it was too generic to be a "competitive effort" and would be safe to skip for another other than "kids with "an affection for Legos that borders on obsession". Xbox Nation reviewer Paul Theobald felt the game had "plenty of promise" and praised the game energy absorption mechanic as a "welcome element of complexity", but criticized its "extremely short length" and generic level design. While GameZone reviewer The Whiz was critical of the short length and camera, he praised Bionicle for its mission variety, boss battles, and environments as well as its difficulty and felt it would appeal to "both beginners and veterans to the platformer series".

Commercial

Bionicle (along with Argonaut's other Christmas titles SWAT: Global Strike Team and I-Ninja) reportedly sold poorly and failed to generate any licensing royalties for the studio. The company was placed into administration in October 2004, and all of its employees were laid off in November 2004. Argonaut Games was officially dissolved in August 2006. Footage of a tech demo for a planned sequel to Bionicle, titled Bionicle: City of Legends, was leaked online in 2012, and builds of the demo dating from December 2003 to January 2004 were later leaked to the BioMediaProject, a fan website that preserves Bionicle-related content.

References

  1. ^ Biessener, Adam (January 2004). "Game Informer Online". Game Informer. Archived from the original on January 14, 2006. Retrieved May 20, 2021.
  2. ^ Theobald, Paul (January 2004). "XRated Smart Reviews". Xbox Nation. No. 11. Ziff Davis. p. 100. Retrieved May 23, 2021.
  3. ^ "Bionicle". GameZone. November 4, 2003. Archived from the original on November 6, 2003. Retrieved May 20, 2021.
  4. ^ Todd, Brett (December 16, 2003). "Bionicle Review". GameSpot. Retrieved May 20, 2021.
  5. ^ Bionicle (Manual). Electronic Arts, Lego Interactive.
  6. ^ "Bionicle: The Game Reviews". IGN. Retrieved May 20, 2021.
  7. Farshtey, Greg (April 27, 2010). Makuta's Guide to the Universe. Papercutz. pp. 18–19. ISBN 1597072036.
  8. "Official Greg Discussion". The Great Archives. p. 5. Retrieved May 17, 2021.
  9. Farshtey, Greg (October 27, 2010). "Official Greg Quotes". The Great Archives. Retrieved May 24, 2021.
  10. ^ Rich (October 5, 2003). "BZP Exclusive Interview With the Producers of Bionicle: The Game". BZPower. Retrieved May 25, 2021.
  11. "Gamespot Interview". GameSpot. BioMediaProject. Retrieved May 25, 2021.
  12. Parker, Sam. "Lego Bionicle game announced". GameSpot. Retrieved May 25, 2021.
  13. "EA And Lego Announce Bionicle - IGN". IGN. May 2, 2003. Retrieved May 25, 2021.
  14. Shoemaker, Brad (May 12, 2003). "Bionicle E3 2003 Preshow Report". GameSpot.
  15. "EA Goes Big At E3 - Press Release". Nintendo World Report. May 8, 2003. Retrieved May 25, 2021.
  16. "E3 Press Kit/Style Guide Trailer". BioMediaProject. Retrieved May 25, 2021.
  17. "Camp EA". IGN. July 9, 2003. Retrieved May 25, 2021.
  18. "LEGOs in Action". IGN. July 10, 2003. Retrieved May 25, 2021.
  19. "Bionicle". Metacritic. Retrieved May 25, 2021.
  20. Thorsen, Tor (October 20, 2003). "Bionicle store-bound". GameSpot. Retrieved May 25, 2021.
  21. Cohen, Peter (January 7, 2004). "Macworld: Feral to publish Bionicle for Mac". Macworld. Retrieved May 25, 2021.
  22. "Amazon.com: Bionicle: The Game - Mac: Video Games". Amazon.
  23. "Bionicle for GameCube". GameRankings. Archived from the original on December 9, 2019. Retrieved May 15, 2020.
  24. "Bionicle for PC". GameRankings. Archived from the original on December 9, 2019. Retrieved May 15, 2020.
  25. "Bionicle for PlayStation 2". GameRankings. Archived from the original on December 9, 2019. Retrieved May 15, 2020.
  26. "Bionicle for Xbox". GameRankings. Archived from the original on December 9, 2019. Retrieved May 15, 2020.
  27. ^ "Bionicle for GameCube Reviews". Metacritic. Archived from the original on September 13, 2008. Retrieved May 15, 2020.
  28. "Bionicle for PC Reviews". Metacritic. Retrieved May 15, 2020.
  29. ^ "Bionicle for PlayStation 2 Reviews". Metacritic. Retrieved May 15, 2020.
  30. ^ "Bionicle for Xbox Reviews". Metacritic. Archived from the original on September 13, 2008. Retrieved May 15, 2020.
  31. ^ Wilkinson, Byron. "Stay on target!". Cube. No. 25. Paragon Publishing. p. 84. Retrieved May 23, 2021.
  32. "Bionicle Reviews". GameSpot. Retrieved May 20, 2021.
  33. ^ O'Connor, Frank (January 2004). "Retro gaming, regardless of what you ordered". Official Xbox Magazine. No. 27. p. 62. Retrieved May 22, 2021.
  34. Irwin, Mary Jane (November 10, 2003). "Bionicle: The Game". IGN. Retrieved May 20, 2021.
  35. Fahey, Rob (March 11, 2004). "Argonaut losses mount as sales of Christmas releases disappoint". GamesIndustry.biz. Retrieved May 23, 2021.
  36. Jenkins, David (November 3, 2004). "Remaining Argonaut Development Staff Laid Off". Gamasutra. Retrieved February 1, 2018.
  37. "Negligible value claims and agreements". United Kingdom. June 25, 2014. Retrieved May 23, 2021.
  38. PtoPOnline. "Bionicle 2 : City of Legends - Unreleased Xbox Game". YouTube.
  39. "City of Legends Movement Demo". BioMediaProject. Retrieved May 23, 2021.

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